Catalyst inserts

Catalyst cartridges are a key component of any catalytic converter. It is in them that a chemical reaction takes place to reduce the harmful effects of gasoline or diesel combustion on the environment. The cartridge is housed in the metal cylindrical housing of the catalytic converter.

The catalytic converter cartridge is made of metal or ceramic. In both cases, it contains rare precious metals (such as platinum or palladium), responsible for accelerating chemical reactions. The interior of the catalytic converter cartridge resembles a honeycomb - exhaust gas flows through tiny channels, undergoing chemical reactions that cause its partial neutralization and purification.

Catalytic converter cartridges - useful information

What are the types of catalytic converter cartridges? Catalytic converter cartridges are available in different capacities (CPSI), denoting the number of tubules located in an area of one square inch in the cross-section of the catalytic converter. The number of channels reduces the throughput, which is why sports cars aim for the lowest possible CPSI value. While a 500 CPSI capacity cartridge is sufficient in a daily used car, values of 200 or 100 CPSI are desirable in sports cars.

Why do catalytic converters fall prey to thieves? This is precisely because of the cartridges, which contain precious metals. Depending on the fuel used, optimal catalytic effects are obtained using different metals. Thus, in the case of gasoline engines, palladium is most often used, while in diesel engines platinum is most often found. Thieves have learned how to disassemble the catalytic converter cartridge to extract the valuable metal from it. Theft can be countered by using a special metal catalytic converter cover to make it harder to cut out. Some drivers even decide to remove the catalytic converter themselves and replace it with a regular muffler or dummy.

Can you sell a catalytic converter cartridge? With increasing environmental awareness, a number of companies specializing in recycling have emerged over the past twenty years. There are also those that buy catalytic converters, recovering precious metals and reselling them for reuse in the next car. So if you're planning to get rid of your old car - check whether it's more profitable to sell individual parts (like a catalytic converter) than the whole thing.