Understanding the Components and Functions of the Exhaust Gas Emission Control System

Most of us may still not fully understand the function of the exhaust gas emission control system. Broadly speaking, the main function of this system is to expel combustion gases. However, before we delve deeper into the function of exhaust gas emission control, we will first discuss vehicle exhaust gas emissions.
Exhaust gas emissions are the byproducts of combustion that occur in the internal combustion engine. Released through the exhaust pipe, these exhaust gas emissions contain a number of chemical elements, such as water, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons.
Among these compounds, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons are considered pollutants. In Indonesia, there are two compounds that are the focus of exhaust gas emission testing, namely carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, which are deemed hazardous and can trigger diseases.
Function of the Exhaust Gas Emission Control System
Exhaust gas emissions are expelled by the exhaust system, which consists of several main components, namely the exhaust manifold or more commonly known as the header, exhaust pipe, catalytic converter, resonator, muffler, and muffler tip.
Each of these components has its own function and role. The header is responsible for collecting exhaust gases from all combustion chambers and directing them to the exhaust pipe.
Meanwhile, the catalytic converter serves to reduce the amount of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides contained in the exhaust gases. The resonator functions to dampen the sound of exhaust gas explosions and create back pressure.
So, how does the exhaust gas emission system function in a vehicle? The function of the exhaust gas emission control system is to ensure that the combustion results expelled from a vehicle are channeled properly with exhaust gases that are not harmful to the environment.
Tips for Maintaining Your Car's Exhaust System
After understanding the importance of the roles and functions of the components in the exhaust gas emission control system, let's also learn about how to maintain it.
Not only is it useful for controlling exhaust gas emissions, but the exhaust system can also enhance the appearance and improve vehicle performance thanks to efficient exhaust flow. Here are some tips for maintaining your car's exhaust system that you should know.
Oil Application
Oil serves to keep the silencer moist so that rust does not develop. Apply oil into the exhaust pipe when it is hot. You can warm up the car first and apply about 500 ml.
Check Exhaust Drainage
The next tip you can do is to regularly check the drainage. It is important to know that the drainage hole is useful for collecting water that enters the silencer to prevent it from pooling.
This check serves to ensure that the drainage is not clogged. The method is also quite easy; you just need to insert a stick into it. If it feels unobstructed, it means the drainage is functioning optimally.
Dry the Exhaust System Immediately
Immediately dry the exhaust system after your car passes through a puddle or drives in the rain. If not dried promptly, the exhaust will be more prone to rust from rainwater. After drying the outer part, you should also dry the inside by warming up the car's engine.
Sand the Exhaust
If the exhaust has already rusted, remove the rust using sandpaper. You can spray rust remover on the exhaust and then scrub with sandpaper. This liquid should not be used too often due to its corrosive nature, which can wear down the exhaust layer.
So, those are the things you need to pay attention to in order to keep the exhaust gas emission control system functioning optimally. So, always perform regular maintenance!
Author: Rizkita Darajat