Catalytic Converter

Fig 1: View Of Pre-Catalyst

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

The catalytic converter is an emission control device added to the engine exhaust system in order to reduce hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) pollutants from the exhaust gas. The catalytic converter is comprised of a ceramic monolith substrate, supported in insulation and housed within a sheet metal shell. The substrate may be washcoated with 3 noble metals, Platinum (Pt), Palladium (Pd) and Rhodium (Rh). The catalyst in the converter is not serviceable.