Catalytic Converter Canning Pressure

Measure, view, and evaluate dynamic forces acting between a catalytic converter and contact surface.

Improving Catalytic Converter Design & Handling with Pressure Measurement

The I-Scan^® force and pressure measurement system is a revolutionary product development and manufacturing process tool for catalytic converter designers and manufacturers. Tighter regulatory emission standards have forced manufacturers to design greater surface area into the catalyst to dilute emissions even further. These new, thin-walled catalysts are more fragile and more susceptible to breakage if an uneven pressure is applied in the assembly process. For example, a localized high pressure during assembly of a catalytic converter can crack or partially crush the catalyst. These are defects that lower product quality, reduce yields, and result in inferior product performance by allowing higher emissions.

I-Scan provides data that helps determine the optimal assembly process for the fragile catalysts and provides data for improving catalytic converter designs. The information provided can save companies time and money in design, process verification, and re-engineering costs. Tekscan's patented, thin-film sensors are available in different pressure ranges, are reusable, and provide accurate pressure readings. With the help of our highly qualified sales and engineering support team, each system is configured to meet your specific needs.

Sensor wrapped around cylindrical catalyst (from left to right) - 2-D and graphical plot show higher pressures exist at the seam of the enclosure (shown in red on the right). This type of localized peak pressure could crack the catalyst.

Catalytic Converter Pressure Mapping Applications

Research and development
Identify weak seal pressures, low forces, and peak pressure location
Design comparison testing
Machine set-up
Quality control

Benefits of Pressure Mapping

Manufacturing process development
Improved quality
Design validation
Improved yields

Typical Pressure Sensor Models used for Catalytic Converter Canning Pressure

Sensor Model 5101

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

4.40 in. 4.40 in. 1,936 100.0 in.²

111.8 mm 111.8 mm 1,936 15.5 cm²
Sensor Model 5260

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

18.98 in. 8.14 in. 2,288 14.8 in.²

482.1 mm 206.8 mm 2,288 2.3 cm²
Sensor Model 5511

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

12.10 in. 3.40 in. 1,496 36.4 in.²

307.3 mm 86.4 mm 1,496 5.6 cm²
Sensor Model 6300

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

10.40 in. 1.32 in. 2,288 166.7 in.²

264.2 mm 33.5 mm 2,288 25.8 cm²