Monday, September 30, 2013
Tuned Exhaust Theory
High-performance exhaust systems balance flow rate and gas velocity while reducing back-pressure. Piping dimensions and shape directly affect flow and velocity. Full systems are made up of an exhaust manifold or headers, front pipe, catalytic converter, muffler and tailpipe.
Piping Diameter
Large exhaust piping creates an open flow, which improves top-end power. However, excessively large pipe diameter reduces exhaust velocity or the speed gas travels through the pipes, which decreases torque. Manufactures outfit piping of different diameters on a vehicle before placing the vehicle on a dyno-machine, which measures horsepower, to expose the optimal balance between flow and velocity.
Piping Shape
Ideally, high-performance exhaust piping bends as little as possible. Straight piping optimizes flow rates, gas pressure and velocity. Maintaining balanced pressure within the piping benefits engine power and fuel efficiency.
Back-pressure
Back-pressure occurs when gasses flow back to the engine instead of out the tailpipe. Back-pressure occurs in all systems, but excessive amounts cause power loss, overheating issues and engine suffocation. Obstructions within exhaust piping increase back-pressure. A mufflers flow capacity must equal or surpass the flow rate of the entering gasses or back-pressure is created.
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