At what internal temperature do catalytic converters usually operate?

Catalytic converters typically operate at internal temperatures around 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range is critical for the efficient reduction of harmful emissions from the exhaust gases produced by an internal combustion engine. At this temperature, the catalytic reactions that convert carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances can occur effectively.

Operating at around 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit allows the catalyst materials, often made from precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, to facilitate these chemical reactions at optimal rates, thereby ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Temperatures much lower than this can hinder performance, while consistently exceeding this range could potentially damage the catalytic converter or reduce its lifespan.

Understanding the functioning temperature of catalytic converters is vital for fire investigators, as it helps them determine potential ignition sources related to vehicle fires and the subsequent degradation of components.