What is a catalytic converter?
Catalytic Converter (or Cat) is an Exhaust Emissions Device located underneath a vehicle. It uses a combination of heat and precious metals to promote a chemical reaction, which breaks down harmful gases, making the emissions less detrimental to the environment.
How does it work?
The operating temperature of a cat is between 350 to 400 degrees Celsius. Once the cat has reached this temperature a chemical reaction occurs as the exhaust gases flow through the coated monolith. The harmful gases are oxidised and converted as shown in the diagram opposite.
Components of a cat
A honeycomb monolith coated with precious metals (usually Platinum, Palladium and Rhodium) is encased in a steel can. Between the monolith and the can is matting. Upon running a cat in, this matting expands when subjected to heat. Once expanded, the matting holds the monolith in place.
Sports cats
In order to get maximum power from your car Longlife are able to supply and fit a high flow Sports Cat. With far less restriction through the catalyst, your car will be able to breath more easily and therefore release the maximum power from the engine.
Cat replacements
Original Equipment catalysts often come supplied as part of a larger section of exhaust. Because you are paying for extra parts that you may not necessarily need, this makes the OE cat replacement more expensive than it need be. At Longlife, because we are able to custom build, we can replace only the part that needs replacing which can make us much less expensive than a main dealer without compromising on the quality of parts.
De-cats
On some cars, including many diesels may be possible to remove the catalyst without causing any problems at the MOT. Call us for details to see if your car can be legally de-catted for more power.