What is a Catalytic Converter and How it works

Did you know vehicle emissions account for 20.2% of global CO₂ emissions? Well, more goods and people are on the move today than ever before. Hundreds of thousands of vehicles pump harmful by-products of combustion into the atmosphere, which leads to a climate crisis.
 

The best way to reduce oxides of nitrogen back to simple carbon dioxide and nitrogen is to use a Catalytic (TWC) Converter. It is used with fuel-injected vehicles and is located near the exhaust system, read on for an insight into everything you need to know about TWC and how it works.

What is a Catalytic Converter?

TWC is an emission-controlling device in line with a vehicle's exhaust system. It is known as a catalytic converter because of its ability to convert NO_X into O₂ and N₂. Additionally, it converts CO into CO₂ through a chemical reaction. The catalyst is a solid chemical compound inside the converter that speeds up the reaction. It reduces the activation energy barrier and is not consumed by the chemical reaction.

A TWC Converter comprises two main components: honeycomb-like monoliths with a thin layer of Pd/Rh and Pt/Rh. These monoliths provide the surface area for the reaction to occur. The speed and efficiency of the chemical reaction depend on the size of the surface where the reaction occurs. A bigger catalytic surface will provide more conversion.

How Does it Work?

When you switch on your car's engine, exhaust gases flow through the  Catalytic Converter, where the catalysis process occurs. The reaction starts as the temperatures in the exhaust system rise. Oxides of nitrogen (NO_X) are broken down into simple carbon dioxide (CO₂) and nitrogen (N₂).

Carbon monoxide (CO) and Hydrocarbons (HC) are oxidized to create carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O). Catalyst reaction speed and efficiency are improved by catalysis surface area, gas composition, and operating temperature. Besides, the catalyst begins the reaction at around 300℃, but purification occurs when it reaches temperatures of at least 415℃.

Top Catalytic Converter

Now that you know what a catalyst entails and how it works, the next step will be to find a catalytic converter for your vehicle. Note that the ideal TWC for your car will mainly depend on the size of the engine. Not all universal catalytic converters are compatible with a vehicle's exhaust system. Below are some of the best  catalytic converters in the market for different types of vehicles:

For Chevrolet

2.5" Universal Weld-on Catalytic Converter for Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo

This is perhaps the best universal catalytic converter for Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo vehicles. The unique converter has a solid stainless steel body, a 2.5" inlet, and an outlet pipe that extends to the exhaust pipe. Its extension one smoothly slides over the catalytic converter pipe, making the installation easy.

Besides, it also comes with a honeycomb structure with reduction and oxidation catalysts. The system has a high flow of oxygen that is infused into the interior, where it reacts with HC, CO, and NO_X to produce H₂O, CO2, and N₂ as by-products. This process helps to reduce emissions of harmful gases.

2.5" Inlet / Outlet Universal High Flow Catalytic Converter for Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo

This unique 2.5" catalytic converter is designed to provide maximum purification efficiency. The design incorporated in this catalytic converter allows three oxidation and reduction reactions to occur inside the catalytic converter. It is available in a universal configuration and is compatible with most vehicles.

Installation of the Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo catalytic converter is relatively easy. You will need to perform the following actions:

1. Remove the original converter by cutting it out
2. Check the fit of the new converter on your car by measuring it
3. Secure the new converter in place by welding it
4. Reattach the oxygen sensor
5. Start the vehicle

Please note that these instructions are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific make and model of your car and the catalytic converter being installed. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use caution when working with automotive components.

For Dodge

2.25" Inlet / Outlet Universal Weld-on Catalytic Converter for Dodge Ram and Durango

Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango 53005 are the best cars to own. Additionally, it is generally true that a good car benefits from having a high-quality catalytic converter, as this component helps to reduce emissions and improve the overall performance of the vehicle. This 2.25" Inlet and Outlet Universal TWC is the best option to install in your vehicle. The converter has been specifically engineered to achieve maximum purification. It is compatible with various Dodge versions, including the 2008 Dodge Charger, as well as other models such as the Dodge Challenger, Dodge Dart, and Dodge Grand Caravan. Please note that this information may not be exhaustive, and it is always a good idea to double-check the manufacturer's specifications or compatibility list to ensure that the system is suitable for your particular vehicle.

However, this universal catalytic converter is limited to 2.0L engines and might not offer maximum purification with larger engines. It comes with a heavy-duty stainless steel shell that is highly resistant to rust, heat, and corrosion. Moreover, its internal honeycomb ceramic substrates are designed with a porous structure to ensure sufficient catalyst and increase the reaction area.

For Honda

Direct-fit High Flow  Catalytic Converter for Honda Accord 2.3L Engine 1998-2002 16370

When we talk of durable catalytic converters, you will never miss a spot for the unique Direct-fit High Flow TWC for Honda. It is made with a high-quality stainless steel exterior that is resistant to cracking and thermal shock, as well as a firmly welded plug and heat-resistant flanges. These features help to ensure that the converter is able to withstand the demands of daily use and provide reliable performance for an extended period of time. The design of the converter also makes it convenient to install, further adding to its value.

Besides its durability and high-quality materials, the Direct-fit High Flow TWC Converter for Honda also boasts a high-flow design that increases oxygen intake in your car and helps to prolong the life of your 2.3L engine. Its flange-to-flange design and bolt-on connection make it relatively easy to install, making it a convenient and valuable addition to your vehicle.

Direct-fit Catalytic Converter for Honda Accord 2.4L Engine 2003-2007

This is yet another incredible catalytic converter for Honda Accord. It is specially designed to provide maximum power and performance for your engine. The catalytic converter comes with a stainless steel outer shell for maximum durability. Its precious metal loading and internal substrates are carefully engineered to avoid code issues with MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp).

It also comes with a quality honeycomb structure that provides a large surface area for catalysis and maximum flow. The catalysts react with the exhaust fumes from the engine comfortably without compromising the flow rate, which reduces backflow.

For Nissan

Direct-fit Catalytic Converter for Nissan Frontier 4.0L Engine 2005-2018

The Direct-fit Catalytic Converter is designed specifically for use with certain Nissan and Suzuki models with a 4.0L engine, including the Nissan Frontier, Nissan NV1500, Nissan NV2500, Nissan NV3500, Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan Xterra, and Suzuki Equator. This converter is made with a high-quality stainless steel shell and features firmly welded flanges and oxygen sensor plug for easy installation. It is designed to purify waste gases, reduce fuel consumption, and boost power for these vehicles. 

The best thing about this Direct-fit catalytic converter for Nissan Frontier is that it comes with superior technology, which is formulated to provide your car with exceptional performance. Installing the Direct-fit converter is very straightforward, you will need to remove the original converter and insert the supplied gaskets in the correct positions on the new converter. Then, place the converter in place and tighten all of the bolts. Reconnect the oxygen sensor and start the engine to check for any exhaust leaks. Attention, we always recommend seeking professional help for installation.

For Toyota

High Flow Catalytic Converter for Toyota Prius 1.5L Engine 2004-2009

If you own a Toyota Prius, this is, without a doubt, the best catalytic converter to install in your 1.5L engine exhaust system. It has a Direct-fit design with a flange built according to the standard OE specifications. All the installation holes are exactly fixed and attached to the hardware and gasket to prevent any leakage.

The internal ceramic substrates used in designing this catalytic converter offer a large surface area of reaction and significant metal catalysts. You don’t need to worry about melting or bending. Its stainless steel shell also provides high resistance to rust heat and corrosion.

Manifold Catalytic Converter for Toyota Rav4 2.0L Engine 2001-2003

It is possible to increase the performance of your Toyota Rav4 engine with a simple Direct-fit catalytic converter. The technology incorporated in this converter allows maximum purification and efficiency. It features OEM and a high-technology wash-coat design that provides the exact reduction in tailpipe emissions according to your vehicle's application.

Like any other Direct-fit catalytic converter, installation is typically a simple process. All you need to do is fix it directly and weld it to block any outlet. Other features include a precise OE-style coating process that provides consistent performance by applying catalytic material for assured emissions compliance.

Manifold Catalytic Converter for Toyota Camry 2.4L Engine 2002-2006

The outstanding catalytic converter for Toyota Camry is everything you need to maximize the performance of your engine. It comes with a lightweight fast air-flow design with a high-quality exterior. The outer surface of the system features a honeycomb structure that is designed to allow for increased oxygen infiltration, which reacts with the catalyst to provide maximum purification. This design helps to enhance the performance and efficiency of the catalytic converter.

You never go wrong with a quality Toyota Camry catalytic converter. Its superior features enhance your vehicle's performance and provide the required purification efficiency. To replace your old catalytic converter, you will need to remove the original converter by cutting it out and then measure to ensure that the new converter is a suitable fit for your car. If the new converter is compatible, you can weld it into place, reconnect the oxygen sensor, and start the engine. These instructions are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific make and model of your car and the catalytic converter being installed. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use caution when working with automotive components.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are looking to maximize your vehicle's performance or provide maximum purification, you will experience exceptional results with a good catalytic converter. The above options are manufactured with quality materials for strength and durability and the latest technology for maximum engine efficiency.

At Daysyore Auto Car Parts, we pride ourselves as the leading automotive aftermarket supplier in the industry. We offer quality catalytic converters with 12 months of warranty at the best price. Contact us today, and let us ensure you get the best performance out of your vehicle.

If you want to know more about the price of replacing a  catalytic converter，Please read this article.

How Much To Replace Catalytic Converter Honda Accord?