Saturday, February 22, 2014
Muffler Size Performance
Vehicles have a wide array of exhaust systems, and muffler sizes also vary. Larger diameter exhaust piping, including the muffler, allows more exhaust to flow out from the engine. However, large exhaust piping will not always increase vehicle performance.
Function
An exhaust system releases gases exhausted out of the engine. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of exhaust and the reason exhaust systems use a catalytic converter, which decreases the amount of carbon monoxide released into the atmosphere. An exhaust system includes multiple components including headers, piping, catalytic converter, muffler and tail pipe.
Muffler & Piping Diameter
Muffler and piping size determines the flow of exhaust. Overly small piping will restrict exhaust flow and the velocity at which it is expelled. Overly large piping and mufflers will decrease exhaust velocity even though there will be an ample flow. Ideally, muffler and piping diameter design balances the flow and velocity, creating optimal power.
Back Pressure & Engine Performance
Exhaust back pressure directly affects engine top-end performance. A high amount of back pressure decreases exhaust flow by backing up exhaust in the engines air/fuel mixture, reducing available power. Back pressure builds during heavy acceleration. Muffler and exhaust piping size determine the back pressure an engine must fight against.
