What You Need to Know About Diesel Exhaust Systems

A diesel exhaust system’s main purpose is to take the used up fuel-air mixture that a diesel engine uses in its combustion chamber and make sure that it is removed from the combustion chamber via the tailpipe. In recent decades the government has provided new regulations on certain components in diesel exhaust gas to cut down on emission levels. As a result, today’s diesel exhaust systems now treat exhaust and actively contribute to cutting down diesel-using vehicles’ carbon footprints. In addition a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) can be injected into the exhaust system to decrease emissions while improving fuel efficiency.

A typical diesel exhaust system includes the following components which each serve unique purposes:

• Catalytic Converter: Catalytic converters reduce vehicle emissions by using chemical reactions to convert carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide and to convert hydrocarbons to water and carbon dioxide. Today’s catalytic converters operate to up to 90% efficiency, which efficiently eliminates diesel odor and soot.

• Particulate Filter: A particulate filter’s purpose is similar to a catalytic converter’s in that it also reduces emissions. Particulate filters are specifically designed to remove any remaining soot or other visible particles that may have gotten past the catalytic converter.

• Muffler: As in most engines, the muffler’s purpose is to provide noise reduction and soundproofing for engines. Through the process of acoustic quieting, mufflers reduce noise by dampening vibrations that are created by sound pressure emitted from engines. European-made vehicles may refer to a muffler as a silencer in the owner’s manual.

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To get the most out of your diesel fleet it is important to regularly inspect the exaust system and engine components. Contact Burkett Oil to learn what products can benefit your company.