Not only the thermal process of ageing but also the using up of an engine and its parts are responsible for the decreasing efficiency of a catalyst converter. Utilization failures of a car may very quickly result in serious breakdowns which take place mainly in a catalytic converter but are detected only during the exhaust fumes test.

Influence of contamination and the process of ageing

There are two main factors that have an influence on worsening the reaction of conversion. The first factor is a chemical contamination of a noble metal of a catalyst character due to fuel contamination with lead, magnesium or other elements. The second factor is linked with thermal ageing of an active layer. This phenomenon takes place at the temperature of about 800 Celsius degrees and causes burning of components of an active layer. However, the chemical contamination takes place at lower temperature ranging from 400 to 600 Celsius degrees.

Liquefing of monolith

The liquefying of the main ceramic element takes place at the temperature of more than 1000 Celsius degree. The main reason here is the failure of ignition system which contributes to the fact that fuel is burnt in a catalytic converter rather than in a cylinder. We know from experience that a big number of catalyst converters will break down due to external effects.

Catalyst converter over heating

Errors linked with the processing of flammable mixture lead both to the presence of fuel in exhaust fumes and overheating linked with the liquefying of monolith.

Mechanical damage

Monolith damage due to the process of mechanical destruction (contact with a surface). Parts can lead to the blockade of exhaust system what can cause greater amount of noise.

Monolith liquefying

The drops of petrol or engine oil can cause this type of liquefying at the catalytic converter's inlet.

Monolith being liquefied

The incorrect production of flammable mixture or the failure of ignition system lead to intensive rise of temperature in a catalytic converter. Monolith is being liquefied and can break radially due to thermal stress.