When Did the Three-Way Catalytic Converter Start Being Used?
4 Answers
The three-way catalytic converter began production and use in 1990. It is a crucial and essential component in automotive exhaust treatment. Specific details are as follows: The three-way catalytic converter is the most important external purification device installed in a vehicle's exhaust system. It converts harmful gases such as carbon monoxide emitted from the vehicle's exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions. The three-way catalytic converter is installed in the engine's exhaust pipe, where it facilitates these reactions to release carbon dioxide and nitrogen. The three-way catalytic converter directly impacts whether a vehicle's exhaust emissions meet regulatory standards. Damage to the three-way catalytic converter does not affect the normal operation of the vehicle but can lead to increased fuel consumption, incomplete combustion, and carbon buildup in the cylinders and spark plugs. Therefore, it is necessary to replace or clean the three-way catalytic converter on schedule. Maintenance of the three-way catalytic converter should typically be performed at authorized 4S shops or reputable repair facilities, and the maintenance cycle should not be excessively prolonged.
I remember the car exhaust in the mid-70s was particularly thick. Back then, I drove an old car and was always worried about emission pollution. The catalytic converter truly began to be used around 1975, when Volvo became the first to install it on mass-produced vehicles on a large scale, mainly due to the U.S. Clean Air Act implemented in 1973, which mandated reductions in harmful emissions. Simply put, its function is to purify dirty substances like hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide from the exhaust. As a car enthusiast, I witnessed a significant transformation it brought—the exhaust smell diminished, and air quality genuinely improved. Since then, almost all new cars have come standard with this device, and modern vehicles even have more advanced systems working in tandem with it. Maintaining the catalytic converter is crucial; if it gets clogged or fails, the car may experience reduced power or even trigger a warning light. It's advisable to have it checked regularly or cleaned with professional equipment.
As an environmentally conscious individual, the three-way catalytic converter is a milestone in the history of emission reduction. In the early 1970s, the air pollution crisis was severe, especially in large cities like Los Angeles where smog was prevalent. The government responded by introducing the Clean Air Act in 1973, which prompted automakers to start installing three-way catalytic converters in vehicle exhaust systems from 1975. The key reason is its ability to simultaneously treat nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons, reducing the emission of toxic substances in exhaust gases. I believe this not only transformed the automotive industry but also contributed to urban health improvements. Today, similar technologies continue to evolve, reminding us of the importance of responsible vehicle use, such as avoiding short-distance driving or using low-quality fuel, to extend the lifespan of the catalytic converter and sustain environmental protection.
The three-way catalytic converter became widely used starting in 1975. I recently asked my driving instructor about it during my lessons, and he briefly explained: U.S. regulations pushed automakers to install this device, with Volvo taking the lead in implementation. Its function is to convert harmful components in exhaust gases into harmless gases. Since then, emission standards have been continuously raised. As a beginner, I find this device quite amazing—nowadays, the air is much cleaner when driving. But remember not to use low-quality fuel to avoid clogging the catalytic converter and causing issues.
