Header Pipe Controls Pollutants

Anthony Fontanelle
January 10, 2008

Given the worsening condition of the environment nowadays, officials and citizens are all up in arms in advocating the preservation of the ecosystem. For many years now, the running resolution for such global dilemma has been the cutback of various pollutants that threaten to deplete natural resources. The automotive industry has earned a notorious reputation as the leading contributor of toxic gases that cause air pollution. While the industry is not denying such sins of the past and present, it should be credited for its efforts to being environment-friendly. To date, automakers are fairly preoccupied in conceptualizing engine alternatives that steer clear of gasoline or diesel components. While the said research is still in the works, automakers have not forgotten to incorporate several environment-friendly improvements to the standard engine. Included in the enhancements is the further strengthening of the air-clearing exhaust mechanism devices. One of such essential and reinforced exhaust parts is the header pipe.

In simpler automotive terms, the main function of the header pipe or exhaust manifold is to act as a conduit that collects all the restrictive exhaust gases produced during engine operation. At the same time, this device directs toxic gases to the exhaust pipe for a round of pollutant processing. Usually mounted against the exhaust side of the car cylinder head, the header pipe was originally made up of cast-iron materials. However, recent advancements have generated other materials for the device, such as tubular steel and aluminum for an improved strength and lighter weight. The design and number of header pipes vary depending on the vehicle type. Linear engines require only one header pipe for its operation, while V-shaped engines normally ask for two header pipes for best performance.

With its constant exposure to extreme temperatures and conditions, the header pipe is vulnerable to damage. Therefore, car owners should regularly check the header pipes for possible heat-causing cracks and leaks. When these conditions occur, the best remedy is to have the defective part immediately replaced. Procrastination is never a wise scheme, as faulty header pipes result in the substantial crumbling of the exhaust performance. This ultimately leads to the release of harmful emissions to the environment.

Source:  Amazines.com