Buying
Blackthorn can supply catalytic converters in a variety of formats in order to meet the needs of our customers. The four main options are as follows:
Substrate only
The most basic form of catalytic converter can be the best choice where the customer is able to do their own fabrication and welding and requires the most flexibility combined with the lowest price. Blackthorn supplies high quality metal substrates in a range of diameters from 25mm up to 1000mm or more, with cell densities from 100 to 500 per square inch. Each is coated with a suitable washcoat and precious metal loading, depending on the specifics of the customer’s application. We also keep stocks of popular diameter / coating combinations for customers with urgent requirements.
In-line
These catalytic converters require the customer to cut away part of the existing exhaust pipe and fit the catalytic converter in its place. They are ideal for one-off retrofit situations, and can usually be installed in well under an hour. Inlet and outlet cones are included so the customer will not require any fabrication capability. We also offer a choice of concentric or off-set cones (off-set cones can be very useful where space is tight). In most cases we make the in-line catalytic converter so that it can be sleeved over the existing exhaust tube and then clamped in place, but alternative methods of attachment are possible, please ask for details. Because of the many possible permutations, our in-line catalytic converters are made to order in the UK ensuring fast turnaround.
Bespoke exhaust pipes
Blackthorn can supply bespoke exhaust pipes incorporating a catalytic converter, and this is often the best option for a customer requiring a batch of products because they get exactly what they require with no compromises. Batch sizes start at one and there is no upper limit. Large batches are usually produced in low-cost countries in order to keep our prices competitive, with small batches being produced in the UK for speed and flexibility. We offer a choice of materials including mild steel, aluminised mild steel, and various grades of stainless steel. Pipes made from mild or aluminised steel can be painted with heat resistant black paint which tolerates temperatures of up to 600 C. As regards design, we are happy to work from drawings, 3D models or physical patterns.
Catalytic silencers
In many applications such as forklift trucks or construction machinery, there is a dearth of space for any additional exhaust components so the best option may be to install a combined catalytic converter and silencer into the space previously occupied by the OE silencer. An advantage of this approach is that the hot surfaces of the catalytic converter, which are potentially hazardous to operators and mechanics, will not be on the outside of the unit, and an additional benefit will be lower temperatures within the engine bay. As in the case of our bespoke front pipes, we make one-offs and small batches in the UK and larger batches abroad to ensure that whether price or lead time is top priority, we will always be competitive.
The choice of materials includes mild steel, aluminised steel and various grades of stainless, and products can be finished in heat-resistant black paint which is good up to 600 C.
