Servicing Emissions and Computer Control Systems During Your Auto Repair Career
Despite advancements in technology, vehicles remain one of the number one contributors to air pollution. Major contaminants include hydrocarbons consumed by the engine during combustion, carbon monoxide produced during combustion, nitrogen oxides and particulates, which are primarily made up of carbon. The need for immediate intervention was evident as early as the early 1960s, when emission control systems were invented. This innovation was introduced as a means to control the number of pollutants emitted by a vehicle, thereby reducing air pollution and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Today, modern versions of emission control systems are an essential component of vehicles. If you’re an aspiring automotive mechanic, learn more about these systems, how they work and how to service them below.
How Emission Control Systems Work
Emission control systems were introduced in the late 1960s with the purpose of reducing carbon emissions into the atmosphere. As you’ll learn during auto repair programs at ATC Cambridge, they are made up of several important elements that perform different functions. The evaporative system (also called the charcoal canister) controls excessive hydrocarbons by absorbing fuel vapour that would have otherwise been released into the atmosphere. The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system draws residual combustion gasses from the crankcase. For more complete combustion, the air pump system pumps clean air into the exhaust stream. The catalytic converter reduces nitrogen oxide by removing nitrogen atoms from nitrogen oxide molecules, a process which converts harmful nitrogen oxide into harmless gasses.
Tips For Servicing Emission Control Systems During Your Auto Repair Career
Most vehicle owners won’t be aware of the signs that there’s something wrong with their emission control system, and the problem may manifest as something as simple as an illuminated Check Engine light. Throughout your auto repair career, it’s always best practice to check the condition of a client’s emission control system, especially because they’re often an afterthought for drivers. Because modern emission control systems are well-made, there is often no set maintenance schedule for them, but experts suggest that technicians make emission control system inspections part of regular maintenance. During inspections, it’s important to pay special attention to parts within the system that are prone to wear and tear, such as the filters, valves, belts, hoses, and air pumps.
Servicing the Computerized Component of an Emission Control Systems
In modern vehicles, the computer control system regulates each mechanical system within a vehicle, including emission control. This complex network uses sensors throughout the vehicle, which generate signals to flag issues. As an auto mechanic, you will use a computerized diagnostic tool to scan a vehicle for diagnostic trouble codes before and after you repair a vehicle. Automotive technology has come a long way over the years, and as an aspiring auto technician, you’ll be able to use your diagnostic tools to identify issues and come up with solutions. After you’ve serviced their emission control system, clients will be able to get back on the road without producing excessive pollutants, keeping themselves and the planet safe.
Interested in starting your auto mechanic career?
Contact ATC Cambridge for more information.
