What is the Exhaust System?

Introduction

The exhaust system in an automobile is designed to drive the exhaust gases out in an efficient manner. Most current vehicles direct the exhaust gases to run a turbocharger and then release them back into the atmosphere. The turbocharger uses these gases to push compressed air into the engine, thereby increasing the power generated by it.

Parts of an Exhaust System

The exhaust systems includes parts such as the oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, muffler and exhaust pipe.

 

Oxygen Sensor: The oxygen sensor, as the name implies, measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust. This reading is used by the Engine Control Unit (ECU) in determining whether the engine is running rich or lean. If any deviations are detected, the ECU makes the necessary alterations in the amount of air and fuel sent to the engine. You can find detailed articles on oxygen sensors here.

Catalytic Converter: The catalytic converter is an emissions control device that reduces the level of hazardous pollutants in the exhaust. Our experts have composed various articles on catalytic converters.

Exhaust Manifold and Header: The exhaust manifold is a part of the exhaust system that is attached directly to the engine block. It connects the engine cylinders to the exhaust pipe. The exhaust manifold is responsible for collecting the gases that are released due to the combustion process and passes them to the exhaust pipe. The exhaust manifold is generally made of cast iron which enables them to withstand high temperatures. It is sealed using a gasket that prevents the gases from flowing to other parts of the vehicle. The exhaust manifolds are not efficient in handling exhaust back pressure. An upgraded version of the exhaust manifold is the header which overcomes the back pressure issue.

In performance vehicles, where a lot of engine power is generated, there has to be an equally efficient exhaust system that allows for the exhaust gases to flow out as quickly as possible. In motor sport applications, performance exhaust systems are installed which have wider tail pipes to handle the large amount of exhaust gases. They are also have performance mufflers to dampen the noise produced.

 

As with other parts of the automobile, components in the exhaust system can also fail and exhibit specific symptoms of failure. Failures in other parts of the automobile can also be identified by the color of the exhaust smoke.

 

We hope you found this article about exhaust systems helpful. For any technical clarifications on exhaust systems, you can contact our specialists via our toll-free number or send us an e-mail. You can also leave your queries in the comment section below and we will get back to you at the earliest.