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The Emission Control System:
6 Ways in Which Emissions Are Reduced
Auto emissions are reduced through an integrated system of automotive computers, sensors and emission control devices. Your automobile's computer system plays a central role in monitoring and managing auto emissions. Computers and sensors allow the automobile to self monitor and take corrective action to reduce emissions and optimize performance. In the event of a problem, the computer can even alert drivers.
Computers and Sensors
Automotive manufacturers have developed a number of ways to improve engine performance and reduce harmful emissions.  Central to many efforts has been the role of the onboard computer. By monitoring how the engine is performing, computers can make on-the-fly-adjustments that optimize performance while reducing harmful emissions.
The Role of sensors
As vehicles have become more complicated, the role of sensors as an important tool for collecting and sending information to on-board computer systems has increased dramatically. Onboard computer systems have the ability to make on on-the-fly adjustments that effect things like engine performance, fuel efficiency and automotive emissions.
One of the most common emission control device is actually a sensor. Oxygen sensors are found in nearly every automobile on the road today.
Oxygen Sensors (O2)
 O2 sensors measure the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust. Depending on the data reading, the onboard computer can increase or decrease the amount of fuel entering the engine. By adjusting the air/fuel ratio, engine performance can be optimized as well as making adjustments to exhaust emissions.
But on-the-fly adjustments are not fool proof. Sensors can send inaccurate information to the computer or the computer can malfunction.
A malfunctioning sensor will often send incorrect information to the computer and cause the engine to receive too much or too little fuel. Too much fuel can cause the converter temperature to rise to dangerous levels and actually cause the converter core to melt. Too little fuel can cause a misfire.
Besides computers and sensors, there are five additional control systems designed to reduce auto emissions. |
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1. Emission Control
2. Types Of Pollutants Created By Your Engine
4. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
5. Air Injection And Catalytic Converter
6. Evaporation Emissions Control Systems (EVAP)
7. Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV)
8. Automotive Emissions Wrap Up
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