| Topic | Summary |
| Exhaust system components |
The primary components of the automotive exhaust system are: exhaust manifold, engine pipe, catalytic converter, exhaust brackets, muffler and components such as the resonator and tail pipe. |
| Exhaust manifold |
The exhaust manifold collects exhaust gases as they leave each cylinder and directs them into the exhaust system. |
| Exhaust pipe |
The exhaust pipe carries the hot exhaust gases to where they can be discharged into the atmosphere. |
| Extractors |
Extractors are sometimes known as 'headers'. They are used to assist in the fast extraction of exhaust gases in engines. |
| Mufflers |
The muffler reduces exhaust noise by dampening the pulsations in the exhaust gases and allowing them to expand slowly. |
| Catalytic converters |
The catalytic converter provides a chemical reaction with the exhaust gases to reduce the level of exhaust pollutants entering the atmosphere. |
| Flexible connections |
Flexible connections are used to allow movement between components. |
| Ceramic coatings |
Ceramic coatings are being used as a barrier between dissimilar metals to reduce friction, which in turn reduces wear in internal engine components. The most common applications for ceramic coatings are on the exhaust system, intake manifolds, and exhaust headers. |
| Electronic mufflers |
The function of a vehicle’s muffler is to minimize the sounds coming from the vehicle exhaust system. Electronic mufflers are designed to produce anti noise without restricting exhaust flow. |
| Thermal expansion |
Thermal expansion refers to the way some materials expand when they are heated. |
| Superchargers |
A supercharger compresses the air intake to above atmospheric pressure which increases the inlet air density to the engine. |
| Intercoolers |
The purpose of an intercooler is to reduce the intake air temperature by up to 390 degrees Fahrenheit, or 200 degrees Celsius, before it enters the intake manifold. |
| Frequency |
Sound travels through the air by producing pressure waves - areas of high pressure and areas of low pressure. The rate at which these waves reach our ears is called frequency. |
| Back-pressure |
Back-pressure in an exhaust system refers to a build-up of pressure in the system that interferes with the outward flow of exhaust gases. |
