Cadillac CTS Catalytic Converters
When fuel is burned in a combustion engine, it releases toxic gases and pollutants through the cars emissions. In cars equipped with catalytic converters, these gases are made less toxic before they are released as exhaust. To choose the right Cadillac CTS catalytic converter, it helps to know how these parts work and what types are available.
What materials are Cadillac CTS catalytic converters made from?The main body of Cadillac CTS catalytic converters is made of metal. Inside the main body is a catalyst support. This is the device that the gases and toxins from the fuel exhaust pass through. It is usually made of a blend of metals like platinum, nickel, and iron. The catalyst is coated with an aluminum-based wash coat that helps conduct and disperse the gases.
How do Cadillac CTS catalytic converters work?Cadillac CTS catalytic converters work by combining the gases produced by burnt fuel to form different, less toxic gases. It then releases these gases through the cars exhaust pipes. To produce water and carbon dioxide, the device mixes together carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Some are also equipped to reduce the amounts of nitrogen oxides a car can generate, turning these molecules into nitrogen. Because catalytic converters require high temperatures to function properly, they are often mounted on the cars engine or placed under the car and near the motor.
What types of catalytic converters are there?Over the decades, environmental laws have been introduced which require car manufacturers to equip new vehicles with catalytic converters to create cleaner emissions. Knowing what kind of catalytic converter your vehicle uses can help you choose the correct replacement. There are two types of converters to consider for your Cadillac CTS:
- Two-way: Also known as an oxidation converter, this type performs two tasks at the same time. Firstly, it turns carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. Secondly, it oxidizes hydrocarbons, turning them into carbon dioxide and water. Two-way converters are often found on older vehicles and vehicles that require smaller parts.
- Three-way: These catalytic converters perform both of the actions that two-ways do but add an action. They inhibit the production of nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide, converting both into nitrogen. These converters can also store oxygen. This stored oxygen is tapped into and used if the Cadillac CTS engines fuel contains too little oxygen. The addition of this gas causes the fuel to burn more evenly and efficiently.