Vehicles require gasoline or diesel to run their engine, which produces harmful gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide that causes air pollution. The catalytic converter is the part responsible for converting these harmful molecules into less harmful by splitting and separating them. Let’s learn in this article about the cat back exhaust systems and catless exhaust systems along with their differences in benefits.
What is a catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter, also calle cat-back, is made of a honeycomb-like shape. It is a metal box made from palladium or platinum. It is attach on the underside of the vehicle near diesel particulate filter DPF. The catalytic converter has two pipes coming out of it, one is connected to the engine for bringing pollute hot gases from the engine’s cylinder, while the other is attache to the tailpipe of an exhaust system. When these gases are blown, a chemical reaction happens inside the catalytic converter splitting these harmful gases apart and converting them into non-harmful gases before releasing them into the air. DPF cleaning UK is used to clean the diesel particulate filter for the healthy functioning of the catalytic converter.
What is a cat back exhaust system?
Cat-back exhaust system, as cleared with the name, is the exhaust system with catalytic converter installed. In these systems, the exhaust components and downpipes are usually installed after the catalytic converter towards the tailpipe. The components of the cat back exhaust system include muffler, mid-pipe, tailpipe and tips. Cat back exhaust systems have a number of advantages, and some of them are:
- Cat-back exhaust systems increase the performance of the vehicle due to more efficient exhaust flow through larger diameter downpipes.
- This exhaust systems focus on modifying the sound quality of the exhaust system
- Cat-back exhausts have a more aggressive tone
- These are easy to install.
- Cat-back exhaust systems have better exhaust flow
- Catalytic converters are crucial for the environment
- Cat-back exhaust systems are important to pass the regular emission test.
What is the catless exhaust system?
The catless exhaust system is an aftermarket system that does not equip a catalytic converter. The catalytic converter is remove from the exhaust to prevent exhaust restrictions, allowing the exhaust gases to flow faster. Catless exhaust systems are good in terms of power, which is why many people opt for removing them from the vehicle. Here are a few reasons why people go for catless exhaust systems. Many car service providers suggest installing a downpipe with a catalytic converter because despite it producing less power, you can pass all types of emission tests and it is legal.
Significant increase in power
Vehicles without a catalytic converter have experienced a significant increase in their power. Since the catalytic converter creates a source of backpressure, it limits the flow of gases. When it is remove, it provides a better flow of gases through the exhaust at a faster rate with a larger quantity. Without a catalytic converter, the engine can use its optimum power.
Better exhaust sounds
Increased sounds are the main reason many car owners go for the catless exhaust system. Since the catalytic converter is responsible for decreasing the effects of gases, it also muffles the sound with the muffler in it. when it gets remove, you can experience louder, low pitch and distinctive exhaust sound. However, it can become a disadvantage for the one who doesn’t want a noisy ride.
Better gas mileage
Removing the catalytic converter reduces the strain on the engine with its restricting effects. The engine will have to work less to produce more energy, and the lessened workload enables the engine to function easily. It also allows for lesser consumption of fuel with better gas mileage.
Expensive to repair
This is another reason why many car owners opt for removing a catalytic converter from the vehicle. Catalytic converters are very expensive to replace when they become broken or damaged. Since it is the most expensive part of the vehicle, the materials like platinum and palladium are use for their production. So when it gets break or damage, car owners will likely choose to go for its removal instead of replacing it.
Final words
The catalytic converter is responsible for cleaning the harmful exhaust gases. Cat-back exhausts consist of the catalytic converter, resonator, exhaust manifold, muffler and tailpipe. These components work together to control emission and loud sound. However, exhaust systems without it are call catless exhaust systems. There are multiple reasons why people opt for catless exhaust systems, such as to improve the performance of the vehicle, increase the sound of the exhaust system, and improve the flow of exhaust gases for better gas mileage. Depending on the choice and preferences of the car owner, both have their own pros and cons. If you are planning to remove your vehicle’s catalytic converter, you should look for a professional service provider.
