What You Need to Know About Diesel Exhaust Systems

Diesel is the most common fuel used by truck fleets in the United States. In 2022, it is estimated that the U.S. transportation sector used 125 million gallons of diesel each day. And while diesel engines offer a variety of benefits to their users (such as fuel efficiency and durability for heavy loads), diesel engines produce exhaust gases that contain pollutants such as particulate matter and carbon monoxide.
In recent decades, the government has provided new regulations on diesel exhaust gas to cut down on emission levels. As a result, today’s diesel exhaust systems now treat exhaust actively reducing the carbon footprint of diesel-powered vehicles. Learn more about diesel exhaust systems and their components below.

What is the purpose of a diesel exhaust system?

The purpose of a diesel exhaust system purpose is to remove the used-up fuel-air mixture that a diesel engine uses from the combustion chamber via the tailpipe. Diesel exhaust systems also aid in noise reduction, heat management, emissions treatment, and overall engine performance. These systems also work even better when injected with diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), which can help further reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.

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What are the components of an exhaust system?

A typical diesel exhaust system includes the following components which each serve unique purposes:

Catalytic Converter

Catalytic converters reduce vehicle emissions by converting carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons to water and carbon dioxide. Today’s catalytic converters operate at up to 90% efficiency, which efficiently eliminates diesel odor and soot.

Particulate Filter

Like a catalytic converter, a particulate filter also reduces emissions. Particulate filters are specifically designed to remove any remaining soot or other visible particles that may have gotten past the catalytic converter.

Muffler

The muffler (or a silencer, as it is sometimes referred to in European-made vehicles) provides noise reduction and soundproofing for engines. Through the process of acoustic quieting, mufflers reduce noise by dampening vibrations that are created by sound pressure emitted from engines.

Looking for a DEF Distributor?

Burkett Oil Company is a lubricant and fuel distributor based in Atlanta, Georgia. We provide high-quality products to auto shops, industrial plants, and other businesses needing oil, grease, and coolants/antifreeze. Burkett Oil is also the exclusive Atlanta supplier of Blue Sky DEF. Contact us today for a free quote.

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