The temperature difference measured at a catalytic converter's inlet and outlet should ideally be how much?

In a properly functioning catalytic converter, the ideal temperature difference between the inlet and outlet should be around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). This temperature differential indicates that the catalytic converter is effectively converting exhaust gases and generating heat as a byproduct of the catalytic reaction.

When the exhaust gases pass through the catalyst, chemical reactions occur that reduce harmful emissions, and these reactions produce heat. A temperature increase of about 100 degrees Fahrenheit reflects that the converter is operating efficiently and is actively engaged in its function of reducing pollutants. If the temperature difference is lower, it might suggest that the catalytic converter is not functioning optimally or that there might be insufficient exothermic reactions taking place.

Higher temperature differences, while they can sometimes be observed, often signal issues such as excessive backpressure or damage to the converter, leading to inefficiencies. Thus, the benchmark of 100 degrees Fahrenheit is a reliable standard for evaluating catalytic converter performance under normal conditions.