The control of the emission of pollutants has been dictating the new methods and concepts applied in automotive repair in recent years. In this scenario, gas analysis became of great importance in the workshops and required constant updating by professional mechanics.
We prepared this post to explain what are the main gases emitted by automotive engines and how their analysis is fundamental for a well-executed diagnosis and repair. There you can make use of the Irvine auto detailing now.
Know the gases emitted by the car engine
Reducing pollutant gas emissions from automotive engines has become a public health issue. Many of the elements released into the environment with the burning of engines are responsible for several diseases, respiratory problems and a drop in the quality of life in large cities.
Understand better about the main polluting gases:
Carbon monoxide (CO)
This is one of the most harmful gases to our health. It reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness and suffocation. In contact with the bloodstream, it turns into CO2 (carbon dioxide), which can aggravate cardiac and respiratory problems.
Despite being produced by all vehicles, emission reduction programs, have reduced carbon monoxide emissions by 90% in recent years.
Nitrogen oxide (NOx)
Emitted mainly by diesel engines, this gas causes great irritation and respiratory discomfort, such as burning in the nose, eyes and mucous membranes. It also worsens heart problems and affects the body’s immunity. Their reduction levels have also been drastically reduced with the control programs.
Hydrocarbons (HC)
In addition to causing irritation and breathing difficulties, these gases are also potentially carcinogenic. They can be emitted by gasoline, alcohol or diesel engines.
Components that help control gas emissions
There are two components present in vehicles that are responsible for controlling the emission of gases. The catalyst and oxygen sensor (O2), also known as lambda probe.
The catalyst is located at the bottom of the car, between the engine and the muffler. Its function is to convert the harmful gases that would escape through the exhaust into harmless substances. It has been mandatory on all vehicles in Brazil since 1997.
Working in conjunction with the electronic injection system, the oxygen sensor is also essential for reducing pollutant emissions. It analyzes the oxygen levels present in the gases produced by the engine and sends this information to the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the injection system.
In turn, the ECU optimizes the mixture between air and fuel, in order to improve the relationship between consumption and gas emissions.
Gas analysis in automotive repair
- Dealing with gas analysis is already a reality in the automotive repair business. Detecting CO2 emission levels, for example, is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
- An engine operating in conditions close to the ideal has an emission of carbon dioxide above 12%. Likewise, high levels of oxygen (O2) can be indicative of poor engine mixing.
- The high presence of hydrocarbons indicates that some fuel particles were not burned in the combustion chamber, resulting in high consumption.
Gas analysis is essential for the professional mechanic who works with combustion engines, so it is necessary to keep up to date to offer a good job and stand out from the competition.
However, this reality may change within a few years, with the expectation of popularization of the electric car, which does not emit pollutants. To better understand the subject, read our post and learn more about the differences and advantages of the electric motor.
