In this edition of the automobile technology segment, we bring to you the relevance, classification and functioning of catalytic converters. Before we begin to explain what catalytic converters are, let us discuss what the exhaust gas emissions from a vehicle consist of. A regular fuel (petrol or diesel) is made up of hydrocarbons. That means atoms of Hydrogen and Carbon arranged in various proportions form molecules of petrol or diesel. Essentially, after the treatment of natural resources, the end product we get is the hydrocarbon chains. Depending on the number of carbon atoms and length of the chain, it is either classified as petrol or diesel.
Also read: How do Variable Valve Timings and Lift improve efficiency of an engine?
Why are Catalytic Converters needed?
During the combustion phase inside the cylinder of the engine, the air-fuel mixture almost never burns completely. Complete combustion is referred to as when the end products of the combustion are Carbon Dioxide and Water….