Replacement of the catalyst with a flame arrester. Catalyst or flame arrester: which is better?

Most models of modern cars have in their design technical solutions that provide comfort to both drivers and passengers. Also, modern cars are as friendly as possible to nature. They minimally pollute the air, and the noise from them when driving is small. Minimal damage to the environment is achieved by means of an exhaust system and a catalyst. The legislation of our country is very loyal to the purification of exhaust gases, and catalysts can be changed not only to the same devices, but also to more simplified designs. But most drivers believe that it is more justified to replace the catalyst with a flame arrester. Let's see if this is so.

Catalyst: what is this and what for?

The catalytic converter of exhaust gases is a necessary part for any car. In Europe without this device, traffic is prohibited.

The device performs the functions of oxidizing dangerous compounds that are in the exhaust gases. By its design, this device is extremely simple.

The catalyst is made in the form of a special porous filter. Through this filter pass gases. But if you do not look at a simple design, then the prices for these parts are quite high. This can be explained by the presence in the device of precious metals in fairly large quantities. In catalysts, you can find even palladium, rhodium and platinum salts. For most motorists, this is quite expensive, so many people switch to a flame arrester instead of a catalyst.

Types of neutralizers

There are several types of neutralizers by type of carrier. A special catalytic spraying is sprayed on this carrier. On some models of cars it can be a ceramic block or special honeycombs made of metal.

Ceramics for motorists are much more expensive than metal. But it has a significant drawback - quite fragile. Only one blow against a small stone is enough to make the honeycombs crumbling and the car owner is wasted. Also, ceramics can be destroyed due to problems with ignition. So, when the car starts, the fuel does not ignite immediately, but unburned fuel accumulates in the exhaust path. This is most often directly a catalyst. When the engine starts, the gasoline will explode, and the ceramics will crumble. Again, spending money is inevitable. More ceramic honeycombs can be destroyed due to temperature differences. It is enough to drive a well heated car into a puddle. And that's all.

Metal is slightly higher in terms of reliability. He is more resistant to mechanical stress.

The main fear of catalysts

But ceramics and metal do not like poor-quality fuel, antifreeze in combustion chambers, counterfeit liquids, which motorists use for washing. Also do not like catalysts are too rich fuel mixtures and idling.

All these factors affect the quality of the work of the element in question. In addition, this device loses its ability to contain toxic impurities, the catalyst is clogged. This leads to a decrease in the cross-section of the channels, and the motor as a result will lose power.

Motorists sometimes could hear stories when these nodes simply melted from overheating. And this is far from isolated cases. In a non-operating catalyst, simply huge temperatures. Even ceramics sometimes melt.

Repairing the motor after such tests is an expensive pleasure. All this is understood, so replacing the catalyst with a flame arrester is the best option to avoid problems.

Dust will ruin your motor

Dust of ceramics, which is always formed due to the age of the block (although it is outwardly intact), still gets into the cylinders. Often, one can observe cases when a mechanic finds dust there after disassembling a group of cylinders. She works there like a real abrasive. Probably everyone knows what the result will be.

Small, but so important

All this suggests that one should not treat this design with a disregard. Although it seems unnecessary, it is capable of ruining both the exhaust system and the engine. Residents of Europe change the catalyst after every 100,000 km. But we do not have Europe, but our motorists prefer a flame arrester instead of a catalyst.

Absolutely without a catalyst

Now the moment has come - and this system has broken down. This can lead to serious consequences under certain conditions. The question arises: "What should I do?".

There are many popular topics on the forums where the possibility of using a machine without a catalyst is discussed. In reviews, car owners complain of noises and vibrations when driving without this part. Often warned of possible burnout of the exhaust system.

Is there an exit?

Definitely there. This is the replacement of the catalyst with a flame arrester. Today you can find a suitable model of flame arresters for any engines. Manufacturers offer many models with a unified mounting system.

Many motorists who decided on such a replacement, very flattering about the operation of these units. The flame arrester is produced by the majority of foreign manufacturers of auto parts, as well as by domestic brands.

Flame arrester and design features

This is one of the types of resonators. It receives and processes exhaust gases, and then releases them into the atmosphere colder and slower.

These nodes operate under harsh conditions, so they have certain design features. In most of the features are in the material. Often this is stainless steel with good wall thickness. In most cases, these products are made in a two-layer body. They are reliably protected from any damage. Do you still think, is the replacement of the catalyst optimal for the flame arrester? The advantages are obvious. There are also single-layer models, but here the sheet of stainless steel is even thicker.

Varieties of flame arresters

There are two types depending on the type and functional features:

• Active. Here, mineral wool and synthetic fibers are used as the main working element. These products are single-layered, and their durability is weaker. The operation of these units is associated with high temperatures and the filler simply burns out. But while those who installed such a flame arrester instead of a catalyst, the reviews leave mostly positive. It's silence, comfort and quality.
• Reactive systems. They are based on reflective surfaces made of heat-resistant steels. Such a resonator is very durable.

Many owners who have decided to replace, do not have certain opinions. Both of these designs work equally well. Both types have both advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages and disadvantages

It should be noted immediately that the installation of the flame arrester does not provide for the possibility of cleaning. This is the only drawback. The task of the flame arrester is to give the driver and passengers comfort, to make the motor work quieter, to protect it from destruction.

But, on the other hand, the replacement of the catalyst by a flame arrester (reviews indicate the enthusiasm for power) improves the reliability of the car. Another point is a guarantee for many types of products.

How much will it cost to replace?

For modern foreign cars a new catalyst costs about 400 euros. For many, this is quite expensive. And to go without this device - to itself is worse. The flame arrester will cost much less, and modern models from European and Russian manufacturers are very high-quality and reliable.

So, replacing the catalyst with a flame arrester (the price of the item is affordable) is an excellent way out. Moreover, you can install everything yourself. Car-care centers offer this service from 3500 rubles. This is a very small amount, and in return - a serious advantage.

We install a flame arrester

This work will not cause difficulties even for beginners. Here, all you need is to remove the non-working catalyst, and replace it with the newly acquired flame arrester.

I must say that this device meets the requirements of Euro2. If you have more, then you should also install a lambda probe. If you do not know how to install a flame arrester, then contact the auto service center. But you can believe that even beginners can do it.

It is necessary to make a choice

Of course, if the catalyst is still alive and working properly, then let it work. But if it fails, the replacement will save the car and the engine from imminent damage.

For the present, this device is not prohibited by our legislation. A new catalyst or flame arrestor - which is better? It is clear without words.