FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Find clear answers to technical and commercial questions about our catalytic converters, GPFS & DPFs, SCR systems, and custom exhaust solutions. From compliance to installation, get mission-critical insights in seconds.
What is a catalytic converter?
- A TWC reduces three harmful pollutants in gasoline exhaust:
• Hydrocarbons (HC) → H₂O + CO₂
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) → CO₂
• Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) → N₂ + O₂ - It uses platinum-group metals (Pt/Pd/Rh) coated on a ceramic honeycomb substrate (400-1200 CPSI)
Signs of catalytic converter failure?
Check Engine Light (P0420 code)
Rotten egg odor (unconverted H₂S)
Rattling noise (collapsed substrate)
Reduced engine power (clogging restricts exhaust flow)
Glowing red housing (severe clogging)
Can a clogged catalytic converter be cleaned?
Cleaning solutions have limited efficacy. Replacement is recommended for:
• Physically damaged substrates
• Severe contamination (oil/coolant ingress)
• Efficiency below 90% in emission tests
Is catalytic converter removal legal?
Illegal in most regions (fines up to $10,000 USD):
• Violates EPA/CARB (US), Euro 6 (EU), China 6b standards
• Removal increases emissions by 300-500%
DPF vs. SCR: Key differences?
| Component | Function | Technology |
|---|---|---|
| DPF | Traps soot particles (PM) | SiC/cordierite filter (99%+ efficiency) |
| SCR | Reduces NOx via DEF injection | Converts NOx → N₂ + H₂O at 200-400°C |
How to prevent DPF clogging?
Ensure passive regeneration:
• Drive >30 mins at 60+ km/h weekly
• Use low-ash engine oil (CI-4/CK-4)
• Avoid short trips (<15 mins)
Why does SCR trigger "Check Engine" light?
Common causes:
Low DEF quality (urea purity <32.5%)
Crystallized DEF in injectors
Incorrect NOx sensor readings after exhaust modifications
Cat-back vs. axle-back exhaust systems?
| Type | Modification Scope | Performance Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Axle-Back | Muffler + tailpipe | 3-5% HP, sound enhancement |
| Cat-Back | Post-catalyst full piping | 5-8% HP, reduced backpressure |
Will a high-flow catalytic converter pass emissions?
Only if:
• CARB/EPA-compliant (with EO number)
• Matches OEM CPSI density (e.g., 400 CPSI for performance)
• Integrated with O₂ sensor spacers to prevent CEL
Professional installation required?
Mandatory for:
• Downpipe modifications (affects turbo pressure)
• DPF/SCR deletions (illegal in 50 US states)
• Welding titanium/Inconel systems
What does P0420/P0430 trouble code mean?
“Catalyst efficiency below threshold. 3WayCatalyst solutions:
• Diagnose: Check O₂ sensor delay >0.7s (indicates substrate clog)
• Fix: Replace with CARB-compliant converters (50-state legal)”
Loud exhaust rattle? Possible causes:
Broken hangers (replace with CNC-bent brackets)
DPF substrate disintegration (use our SiC asymmetric filters)
Heat shield corrosion (stainless steel shields available)
Why do your converters last 30% longer than competitors?
Triple-layer tech: Cordierite ceramics (α≤0.5×10⁻⁶/K), lanthanum-stabilized nano-coating, and robotic laser welding (99.98% defect-free joints)
CARB compliance for replacement converters?
In California:
• Must use CARB-certified converters (EO number visible)
• Aftermarket units require matching vehicle engine family
Sample and MOQ policies?
Samples: Available for stock SKUs ($50-200 cost + freight)
MOQ: 20 units (standard), 50 units (custom designs)
Lead time: 30 days (stock), 60 days (new tooling)
Pre-shipment testing?
All products undergo:
• XRF analysis (PGM loading verification)
• Flow bench test (backpressure <2.2 kPa @ 250 CFM)
• Engine dyno validation (Euro 6/EPA Tier 4)
Packing terms?
• Standard: EPE/Bubble Wrap/carton/wooden box/PE film
• Custom: OEM-branded boxes (require authorization letter)
3 Way Catalyst Commitment
“Since 2013, we’ve pioneered:
• 40+ patents in emission tech
• 30% lower backpressure vs. OEM
• 100% pre-shipment XRF/dyno validation”
Contact: info@3waycatalyst.com | +86 150 6928 1856
Comprehensive Product Range
We offer a wide range of catalytic converter solutions, including Universal Three-Way Catalysts, Direct-Fit Converters, Custom-Made Converters, and High-Flow Performance Units, to meet the diverse vehicle and regional emission standards
Customizable Design Services
Tailor-made designs and OEM-level configurations ensure each converter fits your exact engine model, emission regulation, and branding requirements.
Installation & Support
From rapid production to bulk packaging (more than 100 units) and long-term technical guidance, we provide worry-free, full-cycle turnkey services for efficient project delivery.