Influence of catalyst, exhaust systems and ECU configurations on the motorcycle pollutant emissions

This work is the result to the study a different systems of exhaust pipes. The manufacturers of motorbike use a system with several volumes to reduce noise and use a catalyst to reduce emissions. In contrast, the manufacturers of exhaust system decided made a system using a perforated pipe and a rock wool to noise reducing. This system changes the pressure drop and temperature of exhaust gases and, therefore, request a different composition of catalyst. In this communication, it is shown the tests released in a test bench according with the cycle WLTC and the limits are the defined for EURO3. Where, we have changed the type of catalyst, the diameter of the end pipe and the calibration of electronic control unit of engine in order to measure following the test of homologation. The results of the different experiments indicate is very important the pressure drop in the replace exhaust system must be similar to the original system. The composition of the catalyst and the operating temperature are critical to reduce the emissions and the calibration of engine is the main influence.