1. Attachments are working again! Check out this thread for more details and to report any other bugs.

Catalytic converter thermal insulation?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Technical Discussion' started by 2009Prius, Sep 16, 2009.

  1. 2009Prius

    2009Prius A Wimpy DIYer

    Joined:
    Mar 25, 2009
    2,705
    510
    63
    Location:
    USA
    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
    I read that in cold weather the ICE is on longer to keep the catalytic converter warm. So is it possible to add thermal insulation to it?
     
  2. JimboPalmer

    JimboPalmer Tsar of all the Rushers

    Joined:
    Apr 14, 2009
    12,470
    6,871
    2
    Location:
    Greenwood MS USA
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius v wagon
    Model:
    Three
    From Catalytic Converter
    "The normal operating temperature can range up to 1,200 to 1,600 degrees F. But as the amount of pollutants in the exhaust go up, so does the converter's operating temperature." So you would need to find insulation that works at over 2000 degrees F.
     
    1 person likes this.
  3. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

    Joined:
    Mar 27, 2004
    7,663
    1,041
    0
    Location:
    United States
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    And then the converter would be destroyed. Don't do it.
     
    1 person likes this.
  4. Rokeby

    Rokeby Member

    Joined:
    Jan 21, 2008
    3,033
    708
    75
    Location:
    Ballamer, Merlin
    Vehicle:
    2008 Prius
    Sounds like you'd want something in the way of a ceramic insulation,
    up to 1800 deg anyway:

    Ceramic Insulation Manufacturer

    Something like this needs a comprehensive disclaimer, like this one:

    Use this information at your own risk: There is no warranty expressed nor
    implied and we are not liable for any of your past, present, nor future actions.
    Even should you perform these modifications to the letter you could still
    damage any number of components in your vehicle causing it to no longer
    function. Even if it appears to function properly your actions may cause it to
    self destruct with collateral damage to surrounding properties other than your
    vehicle. By utilizing these ideas and instructions in an attempting to enhance
    national security, reduce gas consumption, vehicle "emissions", your carbon
    footprint, or smog, you do so at your own risk & peril.

    Warranty: In performing some of these modifications you may void your
    warranty with the vehicles manufacturer.


    From here:
    Prius OEM fan control - EAA-PHEV
     
    Isaac Zachary and 2009Prius like this.
  5. David Beale

    David Beale Senior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 24, 2006
    5,963
    1,985
    0
    Location:
    Edmonton Alberta
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Once the cat is warm, it seems to take a while for it to cool off. Usually you will need the engine to run to propel the car before that happens.

    Insulating the cat is an idea, but they can also be destroyed by overheating. So you'd really want to do a lot of research before proceeding. I suspect it's not a good idea.
     
    Isaac Zachary and 2009Prius like this.