Car Exhaust System Information

The tailpipe of a car

Exhaust, the byproduct of an internal combustion engine in a car, passes through several components until it is expelled into the air. These components serve to remove exhaust from the engine, reduce the volume level and partially clean the expelled gas. The components that make up this system in a car are quite simple yet integral to the modern car.

Exhaust Manifold

The first step of the journey for exhaust gasses is the exhaust manifold. This piece connects to the engine and consolidates the exhaust into one pipe. These pieces must withstand extremely high heat and are made out of iron, steel or aluminum.

Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor is a part of the car's computer system. The sensor analyzes how much oxygen is present in the exhaust gasses. This enables the vehicle to adjust the fuel to oxygen ratio, which can result in improved fuel economy and a reliable power output. The sensor is mounted either in the exhaust pipe or the exhaust manifold.

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter helps to clean the exhaust gasses of the car. It can remove or reduce the amount of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides that a car emits. This piece is located between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. All new cars must have catalytic converters or they will not pass inspection.

Muffler

The muffler is located between sections of exhaust piping, or at the end of it. Mufflers do exactly what their name implies, they muffle the sound of the exhaust. A vehicle without a muffler is extremely loud. Mufflers must also be present on modern cars; otherwise, the car will not pass inspection.

Exhaust Pipe

The exhaust pipe carries the exhaust gas throughout the different car exhaust systems. This piping is typically made of steel or aluminum and travels almost the length of the car. This part of the exhaust system is prone to corrosion and rust and may frequently need replacing. Exhaust piping is also available in many different diameters. Wider diameters allow for more flow through the exhaust system but are more expensive than smaller diameter systems. A car that has a modified engine and muffler may benefit from a wider exhaust pipe.

References

• Auto Education: The Exhaust System