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The effects of the internal geometry of catalytic converter channels on flow characteristics; exhaust backpressure and overall conversion efficiency have been investigated by means of both numerical simulations and experimental investigations. The numerical work has been carried out by means of a micro scale numerical tool specifically tailored for flow characteristics within converter channels. The results are discussed with aid of flow distribution patterns within the single cell and backpressure figures along the catalyst channel. The results of the numerical investigation provide information about the most efficient channel shapes. An experimental validation of the simulated results has been carried out with a production 3.6 liter, 6-cylinder engine on a dynamic test bench. Both modal and bag emission data have been measured during the FTP-Cycle.

Future stringent emission limits both in the European Community and USA require continuously increased conversion efficiency of exhaust after-treatment systems. Besides the obvious targets of fastest light-off performance, overall conversion efficiency and durability, catalytic converters for maximum output engines require highly optimized flow properties as well, in order to create minimum exhaust backpressure for low fuel consumption. This work deals with the design, development and serial introduction of a close coupled main catalyst system using the innovative technology of Perforated Foils (PE). By means of PE-technology, channel-to-channel gas mixing within the metal substrate could be achieved leading to dramatically reduced backpressure values compared with the conventional design.

The tightening trend of regulations on the levels of admitted pollutant emissions has given a great spur to the research work in the field of combustion and after-treatment devices. Despite the improvements that can be applied to the development of the combustion process, pollutant emissions cannot be reduced to zero; for this reason, the aftertreatment system will become a key component in the path to achieving near-zero emission levels. This study focuses on the numerical analysis and optimization of different metallic substrates, specifically developed for three-way catalyst (TWC) and Diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) applications, to improve their thermal efficiency by reducing radial thermal losses through the outer mantle. The optimization process relies on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations supported by experimental measurements to validate the numerical models carried out under uncoated conditions, where chemical reactions do not occur.