Emission Control Systems: Description and Operation

PURPOSE: The Emission Control System used on this engine is designed to reduce the following emissions;

Hydrocarbons Or HC.
Hydrocarbons (HC) formed by combining Hydrogen and Carbon molecules, make up a major portion of the pollution emitted by automobiles. HC is basically unburned fuel, (gasoline is a Hydrocarbon compound). HC is the only major automotive air pollutant that comes from sources other than engine exhaust. HC pollution comes from fuel system evaporation (20%), engine exhaust (60%), and vapors or blow-by gases from the crankcase (20%).

Carbon Monoxide Or CO.
Carbon Monoxide (CO), a chemical compound of gasoline and oxygen, is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. CO is formed when the combustion process is less than complete, usually due to a rich air/fuel mixture. CO is measured primarily at the tailpipe, but may also escape into the crankcase in blow-by gases.

Oxides Of Nitrogen Or NOx
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) are chemical compounds of Nitrogen and Oxygen, (both common in atmospheric air). NOx form during the combustion process when engine temperatures exceed 2500° F. NOx mix with hydrocarbons in sunlight to produce Photochemical Smog.

Smog
Smog or "Photochemical-Smog", the main by-product of tailpipe emissions, is produced when HC and NOx mix while being exposed to sunlight.

OPERATION: These emissions are controlled by the following systems as indicated.

SYSTEM FUNCTION

Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) HC reduction
Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) HC reduction
Multiport Fuel Injection System (MFI) CO, HC, NOx reduction
Three-way Catalytic Convertor (TWC) CO, HC, NOx reduction
Exhaust Gas Recirculation System (EGR) NOx reduction