EXHAUST SYSTEM COMPONENTS
Numerous components work together to ensure the exhaust works at optimal performance. Each component has a different role to play. Below are the components of the exhaust system, as well as some reasons why they fail.
EXHAUST MANIFOLD/EXTRACTORS/HEADERS
The exhaust manifold is at the front of your system, bolted on to the engine. In some cases, the manifold will have been replaced by extractors or headers. Manifolds are generally made out of cast iron and are prone to cracking due to the extreme heat they have to withstand (up to 1300ºC).
The engine pipe connects the manifold to the catalytic converter. Exhaust gases will have cooled down to around 1100ºC. By the time they pass through the engine pipe. Again, the most common reason for engine pipe failure is cracking due to excessive heat. Fortunately, our Port Macquarie muffler and exhaust technicians can service this component at a very competitive rate.
As its name implies, this component converts the harmful gases produced by an engine. Three way converters are the most common in today's vehicles.
They contain a ceramic substrate (honeycomb like biscuit) which is impregnated with three precious metals (usually Platinum, Palladium and Rhodium). As the engine's harmful gases pass through the substrate, they are converted from hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into carbon dioxide, water, nitrogen, and oxygen. This catalytic reaction starts as operating temperatures reach 200ºC, with optimum efficiency reached at 600-800ºC.
The life expectancy of a converter is around 80,000 kilometres or 5 years.
DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER (APPLIES ONLY TO CERTAIN DIESEL VEHICLES)
To reduce the amount of emissions in our air, 2007 and newer vehicles have been fitted with a filter in the exhaust system to capture the soot particles from exhaust gases. They are superheated and burnt off during what is known as 'regeneration' cycle. There are two types of regeneration cycles, active and passive.
Active regeneration is instigated by changing parameters in the engine to increase the exhaust temperatures.
Passive systems rely on the heat of the normal exhaust flow to trigger regeneration and are more user friendly. As they do not need fuel additives and have no moving parts, they may only require a yearly service cleaning.
FRONT/CENTRE/INTERMEDIATE MUFFLER
In between the catalytic converter and the rear muffler is a front/centre/intermediate assembly.
In some systems, this component has a resonator positioned at the front, and a muffler at the rear. This is designed to reduce the noise made by the engine as it goes through the combustion cycle. We are able to ensure your vehicle complies with noise limits.
The intermediate pipe fixes the front assembly to the rear muffler. It can go over or under the rear axle, depending on the vehicle type.
This component is instrumental in the sound of your exhaust system. The temperature of the exhaust gas as it passes through the rear muffler is approximately 200ºC. Condensation forms in the muffler and can lead to corrosion and system failure. Corrosion is more likely to affects vehicles that travel short distances.
The end component of the exhaust system is known as a tail pipe or exhaust tip. The tail pipe ensures exhaust gases pass away from the vehicle correctly. Exhaust tips come in many sizes and styles. Their purpose is to give your system a finished off look.
WHETHER YOU ARE AFTER A HIGH-FLOW PERFORMANCE EXHAUST SYSTEM OR JUST A NEW TAIL PIPE, WE HAVE WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR AND MORE.
Our parent company is A1 Exhausts, known throughout Australia as a leading exhaust and muffler supply business. Our skilled technicians will provide you with the ideal exhaust system, be it for a car, ute or 4x4. We will make sure you benefit from our many years of industry experience.
To find out more about the exhaust systems we have in stock, or request a quote, be sure to
get in touch with us today.
Most exhaust components are manufactured from aluminised coated corrosion-resistant mild steel. Some components, especially rear mufflers, are now being made out of stainless steel, or have some stainless steel content.
Exhaust systems are attached underneath your vehicle by rubber hangers or mountings. These help reduce problems caused by vibration. It is important to have the condition of these hangers checked when your vehicle is being serviced to prevent damage to your exhaust system.
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