Catalytic Converter Repair

A catalytic converter is one of the most important invention that has made internal combustion engines more environment friendly, and has also largely reduced the emissions of all types of internal combustion engines. A catalytic converter is basically a chamber that is structured like a honeycomb from the inside. This kind of structural engineering is then coated with what is commonly known as a wash coat. This wash coat is usually made up of silica and alumina. Once the wash coat dries up, it forms a rough and uneven surface within the honeycomb. The wash coat is then treated with the actual catalyst which is made up of platinum, palladium or rhodium. In addition to these materials, some other catalysts such as cerium, iron, manganese or nickel are also used.

When the exhaust flows through the honeycomb structure, the wash coat and catalysts, which are made up of different materials, react with the toxic matter that is present in the exhaust, and turns it into less harmful gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen or water vapor. There are however some cases where the catalytic converter may malfunction and the exhaust may be released untreated, in a poisonous form, which is of course very harmful.

Catalytic Converter Problems

One of the most common problems is catalytic poisoning. This phenomenon is generally observed when the catalytic converter has been used for a very long period of time. Lead deposition is a very common problem that is seen in internal combustion engines, that operate on gasoline. Manganese, phosphorus and silicon deposition is also observed in internal combustion engines. Gasoline additive, MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl), often gets stuck in the honeycomb structure. In such cases of contamination, the exhaust is left untreated which is certainly very harmful. Meltdown and deformation of catalytic converters occurs as a result of extreme engine temperatures. In some cases, the unburnt hydrocarbons also result into breakage of the honeycomb structures. Since the catalytic converts are located below the car, they are also prone to some external physical damage. This kind of damage often results into leakage of toxic gases. Some of the other problems that might occur in the catalytic converters include, breakage of honeycomb structure, loss of wash coats, reduction in catalytic particulates and robbery. Well yes robbery, as the honeycomb structure, wash coats and catalysts are made up of expensive metals and alloys, the converters are often robbed.

Catalytic Converter Repairs

The following is a small list of possible repairs of a catalytic converter. It must be noted, a broken honeycomb structure is one problem that cannot be easily repaired. In such a case, replacement is the best option.

• As mentioned above, the converter gets clogged with toxic particulate matter. In such a situation, the converter has to be removed and one needs to clear out the clogged particulate.
• Depleted wash coat and reduced catalyst is another very common problem. In such a scenario, it is possible to reapply the wash coat and catalysts. Many mechanics and engineers however recommend a replacement.
• Physical damage to the external parts of the catalytic converter can be repaired with the help of welding or soldering. A damaged honeycomb structure means that you will have to go in for a new catalytic converter. Repair cost, in most cases, is not much, but replacement can be a costly affair.

It is always advisable that one consults a mechanic for repairs of a catalytic converter. Repairing a converter on your own can be a difficult task. Designers and engineers of converters recommend that you replace the converter after a specified number of years, as it ensures safe exhaust emissions.