EP1009924A1

EP1009924A1 - Catalyst support assembly to be mounted in an engine compartment

Info

Publication number: EP1009924A1
Application number: EP98948860A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Helmut Holpp; Friedrich-Wilhelm Kaiser; Uwe Siepmann; Ludwig Wieres
Original assignee: Emitec Gesellschaft fuer Emissionstechnologie mbH
Current assignee: Vitesco Technologies Lohmar Verwaltungs GmbH
Priority date: 1997-09-03
Filing date: 1998-08-24
Publication date: 2000-06-21
Anticipated expiration: 2018-08-24
Also published as: KR20010023630A; EP1009924B1; BR9812161A; DE59806293D1; US6660235B1; CN1268996A; KR100517786B1; JP2001515168A; CN1147663C; MY123156A; WO1999011911A1

Abstract

The invention concerns a catalyst support assembly comprising a housing (1) wherein is arranged a catalyst support body (4). The catalyst support body (4) comprises a plurality of channels, mutually separated by separating walls (7), extending in the axial direction of the catalyst support body (4). Said housing (1) extends, at least partially, in the axial direction of the catalyst support body (4). The housing (1) comprises at least one flange (5) radially oriented outwards and enclosing, at least partially, the catalyst support body (4). Said flange (5) can be placed between an internal combustion engine cylinder head (16) and manifold (20). The design of the catalyst support assembly enables the catalyst support body to be mounted in the engine compartment.

Description

Catalyst carrier arrangement for installation close to the engine

The subject matter of the invention relates to a catalyst carrier arrangement and a structural unit, and to an exhaust system of a ner internal combustion engine.

For the catalytic conversion of components of an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine, it is known to apply at least one catalytically active substance to a catalyst carrier body. The catalyst carrier body has gas channels through which an exhaust gas can flow. The gas channels extend in the longitudinal direction of the catalyst carrier body. It is known to design a catalyst carrier body in the form of a honeycomb. The catalyst carrier body can be formed from at least partially structured sheet metal layers. Furthermore, catalyst carrier bodies are known, which consist of a ceramic material. Such catalyst carrier bodies are extruded.

The catalyst carrier body is arranged in a housing which is part of an exhaust system. Depending on the material of the catalyst carrier body, different configurations of the housing are known.

WO 90/02251 discloses a housing with a catalyst carrier body, which is particularly suitable for installation close to the engine within the exhaust system. The housing has a larger cross section than the catalyst carrier body. The housing has an approximately rectangular opening, the length of which is greater than the maximum length of the catalyst carrier body and the width of which is greater than the maximum width of the catalyst carrier body. The catalyst carrier body is attached to a flat or curved support plate, which has a greater length and width than the opening in the case. The holding plate serves as a closure cover of the housing, the catalyst carrier body projecting into an interior of the housing. This enables simplified installation and removal of the catalyst carrier body in or out of the housing.

Further configurations of catalyst carrier arrangements are known, for example, from WO 96/27735, WO 96/01698 and WO 96/19647.

Particularly in the case of internal combustion engines which are installed in passenger vehicles, the installation of a catalyst carrier body close to the engine is not without problems, since the spatial conditions within a motor compartment of the vehicle are relatively narrow.

From DE 26 35 725 AI, a catalyst carrier arrangement with a housing in which at least one catalyst carrier body is arranged is known. The catalyst carrier body has a multiplicity of channels separated from one another by partition walls and extending in an axial direction of the catalyst carrier body. The housing has a substantially radially outward flange. The flange can be arranged between a cylinder head and a manifold of an internal combustion engine. The housing with the flange is made in one piece.

From DE 43 17 092 AI a catalyst carrier arrangement is known, which is arranged in the exhaust manifold of an internal combustion engine. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a housing which is frame-shaped. The frame-shaped housing has collar-shaped flanges in order to ensure both a radial and an axial tight fit of a catalyst carrier body in the housing. The housing is connected to a flange. The flange is one of the collar-shaped Welded flanges. From DE 43 17 092 AI it is also known that the flange can be connected to several housings.

DE 43 22 526 A1 discloses a further embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement for an internal combustion engine. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a housing in which a catalyst carrier body is arranged. A flange is connected to the housing and has a collar which is fixed to the housing. The flange is fixed together with an exhaust pipe on the cylinder head of an internal combustion engine.

The present invention is based on the objective of specifying a catalyst carrier arrangement which is structurally simple and enables installation close to the engine. Another object of the invention is to provide a structural unit which simplifies the assembly of at least two catalyst carrier bodies in the vicinity of the internal combustion engine. Another object of the invention is to provide an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine which can be produced with little effort.

This object is achieved by a catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 1, a structural unit according to claim 22 and an exhaust system according to claim 25. Advantageous developments and refinements of the catalyst carrier arrangement, the structural unit or the exhaust system are the subject of the respective subclaims.

The configuration of the catalyst arrangement according to the invention has a housing in which a catalyst carrier body with a plurality of channels separated from one another by partition walls and extending in an axial direction of the catalyst carrier body is arranged. The housing extends at least partially in an axial direction of the catalytic converter. carrier body. The arrangement according to the invention has a housing which has at least one essentially radially outward-facing flange which at least partially surrounds the catalyst carrier body and which can be arranged between a cylinder head and a manifold of an internal combustion engine. The flange has at least one section that projects at least partially into the housing. This configuration of the catalyst arrangement according to the invention forms a sharp transition between the housing and the flange, so that the catalyst carrier arrangement according to the invention requires a relatively small installation space. In particular, there is the problem with existing internal combustion engines that they cannot be retrofitted with such catalyst carrier arrangements, since a catalyst carrier arrangement, as is known, for example, from DE 43 22 526 AI, has a radius of curvature in the transition region between and the housing. An assembly of such a catalyst carrier arrangement is only possible by adapting the other components. Such an adaptation of the exhaust manifold or the cylinder head is not absolutely necessary in the configuration of the catalyst carrier arrangement according to the invention.

The fact that the flange extends at least partially into the housing also relieves the pressure on a connection between the flange and the housing, since part of the forces acting on the catalyst carrier body and the housing is introduced directly into the flange via the housing. Relieving the stress on the connection between the housing and the flange also has a positive effect on the durability of the catalyst carrier assembly.

The configuration of the catalyst carrier arrangement according to the invention also retrofits existing internal combustion engines enables, whereby an emission of certain pollutant components of the exhaust gas can be reduced.

The catalyst carrier arrangement preferably has dimensions such that the catalyst carrier body can at least partially be introduced into an outlet duct of an internal combustion engine. This arrangement ensures that the catalyst carrier body, which is provided with a catalyst, can be brought quickly to its operating temperature, so that a reduction in the emission of pollutant components during a cold start phase of an internal combustion engine, in particular an engine of a vehicle, is achieved.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the catalyst carrier arrangement, it is proposed that the housing have a receptacle on or in its outer wall into which at least a portion of the flange projects. The receptacle is preferably formed by a groove, in particular a circumferential groove. The flange has a through opening, which preferably has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the housing. The flange is positioned in the area of the groove. Due to a radially outward deformation of the housing, at least in the region of the groove, the section of the flange enters the receptacle. The plastic deformation of the housing can be done by placing the housing under a sufficiently high internal pressure. The housing may be deformed at an elevated temperature.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the catalytic converter arrangement, it is proposed that the receptacle is formed by at least one radially outward embossing in the outer wall. The embossing is preferably bead-like. According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that a section of the flange extend as far as the catalyst carrier body. In such a configuration of the catalyst carrier arrangement, the housing is preferably formed in two parts.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the catalyst carrier arrangement, it is proposed that the housing have an extension in the axial direction of the catalyst carrier body that is small, preferably substantially smaller, than a length of the catalyst carrier body. This ensures that the catalyst carrier arrangement has a relatively low heat storage mass, so that an operating temperature of the catalyst carrier arrangement can be reached more quickly. Another advantage of this embodiment is the fact that the outer dimensions of the catalyst carrier arrangement can be reduced to a necessary extent, so that with an arrangement of the catalyst carrier arrangement in an outlet of an internal combustion engine an enlargement of an outlet channel is not necessary. It is also achieved that the free flow cross section in the outlet channel is only insignificantly reduced by the catalyst carrier arrangement or the flow behavior of the exhaust gas is insignificantly influenced.

A housing, the extension of which in the axial direction of the catalyst carrier body is smaller, preferably substantially smaller, than a length of the catalyst carrier body, is particularly suitable for accommodating metallic catalyst carrier bodies which are spirally wound.

If, for example, instead of a spiral wound catalyst carrier body, an S-shaped catalyst carrier body is to be arranged in the housing, it is proposed that the housing be formed by at least two housing parts, each housing part extending over part of the longitudinal extent of the catalyst carrier body. This configuration The housing has the advantage that spreading of the catalyst carrier body through the housing parts is prevented. It is not necessary that the total length of the individual housing parts corresponds to the total length of the catalyst carrier body. There may be free sections between individual housing parts. If the housing is long enough, an S-shaped, wound catalyst carrier body can also be arranged in a one-part housing.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the catalyst carrier arrangement, it is proposed that the housing or the housing parts is or are ring-shaped or sleeve-shaped. This embodiment has the advantage that the housing or the housing parts are relatively easy to manufacture. The outer contour of the housing or the housing parts preferably corresponds to the cross section of the outlet channel or of the exhaust gas flow path adjoining the outlet channel.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the flange form a support unit with a housing or with a housing part. This has the advantage that manipulation of several parts is not necessary.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the support unit, it is proposed that the housing or a housing part has at least one stop which can be brought into contact with a catalyst carrier body. This enables a defined installation position of a catalyst carrier body within the housing or the housing part.

The catalyst carrier arrangement is preferably designed such that the

Flange has at least one sealing surface for gas-tight connection with a manifold and a cylinder head. The sealing surface is preferred ring-shaped so that it surrounds the catalyst carrier body. An embodiment of the catalytic converter arrangement is preferred in which the flange itself forms a seal. Such a configuration of the catalyst carrier arrangement is particularly suitable when the catalyst carrier arrangement is arranged directly on the internal combustion engine, since additional sealing means can be dispensed with. The flange thus forms a seal between an engine block and a manifold of the internal combustion engine. Due to the proximity of the catalyst carrier arrangement to the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine, the catalyst carrier body heats up relatively quickly, as a result of which the catalyst carrier arrangement can develop its full effectiveness within a short time. The flange preferably forms a metallic seal.

Depending on the geometry of the seal, it may be expedient to design the flange with at least one sealing element, as a result of which the manufacturing costs of the flange can be reduced, since an exact formation of sealing surfaces on the flange is not necessary.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the catalyst carrier arrangement, it is proposed that the catalyst carrier body is a metallic catalyst carrier body. This is preferably a monolithic honeycomb body. The use of a metallic catalyst carrier body has the advantage that the catalyst carrier body can be soldered to at least the housing and / or the flange, so that an increased stability of the catalyst carrier arrangement is achieved.

The metallic catalyst carrier body can consist of at least partially structured sheet metal layers. Alternatively, the catalyst carrier body can be made from a sintered metal. Instead of a metallic catalyst carrier body, a ceramic catalyst carrier body can also be used. However, it should be noted here that the different thermal expansions due to different expansion coefficients of the materials of the catalyst carrier body and of the housing, which is a metallic housing, must be compensated for by appropriate measures.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the catalyst carrier arrangement, it is proposed that the catalyst carrier body has at least one area that has at least one channel that has an enlarged cross section compared to the other channels. This measure has the effect that the flow behavior of the exhaust gas flow is not influenced or only influenced to a very small extent by the catalyst carrier. This influencing is particularly important if it has a feedback on the mixture formation within a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine.

According to a further inventive concept, a structural unit with at least two catalyst carrier arrangements according to one of claims 1 to 21 is proposed, the catalyst carrier arrangements having a common flange. The number of catalyst carrier arrangements preferably corresponds to a number of the outlet channels of an internal combustion engine. As a result, the assembly effort of the catalyst carrier arrangements can be reduced. In particular in the case of a structural unit whose number of catalyst carrier arrangements corresponds to the number of outlet channels of an internal combustion engine, with a suitable design of the internal combustion engine and the design of the structural unit adapted to this, this structural unit can be connected directly to the internal combustion engine, so that part of each catalyst carrier body into an outlet channel of the internal combustion engine protrudes. Such a structural unit is preferably designed such that each catalyst carrier is arranged within a sealing surface. Alternatively, corresponding seals can be formed on the common collar for each catalyst carrier.

According to a further inventive concept, an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine with a catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 21 and / or with a structural unit according to claim 22 or 23 is proposed, the exhaust system having at least one exhaust gas flow path in which a catalyst carrier body is at least partially arranged is. The exhaust system according to the invention enables the installation of catalyst carrier bodies in the immediate vicinity of an internal combustion engine.

A catalyst carrier body is preferably arranged in each flow path, as a result of which a reduction in the emission of pollutant components of the exhaust gas can be reduced.

In order to achieve the highest possible effectiveness of the exhaust system and to avoid bypass flows of an exhaust gas, it is proposed that each catalyst carrier body with a housing has a cross section which essentially corresponds to a cross section of an exhaust gas flow path.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the exhaust system with at least one manifold, which has at least one flange for connection to an internal combustion engine, it is proposed that the collar at least partially abuts the flange. In particular, the collar is designed so that it can be connected to the flange in a gas-tight manner. Further details and advantages of the invention are explained on the basis of the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawing. Show it:

1 shows a first embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

2 shows the catalyst carrier arrangement according to FIG. 1 in a side view and in section,

3 shows a detail X according to FIG. 2,

4 shows a second embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

5 shows the catalyst carrier arrangement according to FIG. 4 in full section,

6 shows a detail X according to FIG. 5,

7 shows a third exemplary embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

8 shows the catalyst carrier arrangement according to FIG. 7 in a side view and in full section,

9 enlarges a detail X according to FIG. 8,

10 shows a further embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in full section,

11 shows a detail X according to FIG. 10, 12 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

13 shows the catalyst carrier arrangement according to FIG. 12 in a side view and in full section,

14 shows a detail X according to FIG. 13,

15 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

16 shows the catalyst carrier arrangement according to FIG. 15 in a side view and in full section,

17 shows a detail X according to FIG. 16,

Fig. 18 shows a first embodiment of a support unit with a catalyst carrier body in a plan view and

Fig. 19 shows a part of an exhaust system in full section.

1 and 2 show a first embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a housing 1 which is formed in two parts. The housing 1 has a first housing part 2 and a second housing part 3. The first 2 and the second 3 housing part are essentially tubular. A catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged inside the housing 1. The catalyst carrier body 4 has a multiplicity of channels 8, which are separated from one another by partition walls 7 and extend in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the The catalyst carrier body 4 is formed by at least partially structured sheet metal layers which are essentially S-shaped. Other configurations of the catalyst carrier body 4 are possible. The catalyst carrier body can also consist of a non-metallic material, in particular of a ceramic.

The housing 1 is subdivided into a division plane E which runs essentially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the channels 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the division plane E is essentially in a plane of symmetry of the catalyst carrier body 4. However, this is not absolutely necessary. The housing can also be divided asymmetrically.

A flange 5 is arranged between the first 2 and the second 3 housing part. The flange 5 is arranged in the division plane E. The catalyst carrier body 4 penetrates the flange 5. For this purpose, the flange 5 has a through opening 13 adapted to the outer contour of the catalyst carrier body 4. The flange 5 extends as far as the catalyst body 4 through the housing 1.

The metallic catalyst carrier body 4 is at least partially connected to the first 2 and the second 3 housing part of the housing 1. The connection between the catalyst carrier body 4 and the first 2 or the second 3 housing part is preferably a soldered connection. There is also preferably a soldered connection between the flange 5 and the catalyst carrier body 4. Additionally or alternatively, there may be a soldered connection between the flange 5 and the first 2 and / or the second 3 housing part of the housing 1. The connection between the flange 5 and the first 2 and / or the second 3 housing part of the housing 1 can also be a material connection. The connection can for example, be formed by welding, in particular by laser welding, friction welding, arc welding or resistance welding.

The flange 5 is essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body 4. It is also essentially perpendicular to the housing 1. Characterized in that the flange 5 extends to the catalyst carrier body 4, there is a sharp-edged transition between the flange 5 and the housing 1. This sharp-edged transition between the flange 5 and the housing 1 enables the catalyst carrier arrangement to be positioned very precisely in the exhaust duct of an exhaust system. In particular, it is not absolutely necessary to machine the edge of an exhaust port on the cylinder. Characterized in that the flange 5 extends into the housing 1, the forces acting on the housing 1 from the catalyst carrier body 4 are also introduced into the flange 5 via the housing 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the end faces of the housing parts 2, 3 abut the flange 5. A force acting on the catalyst carrier body, which is caused by the flowing exhaust gas, is introduced into the flange 5 via these end faces. This relieves a reduced load on the connection between the flange 5 and the catalyst carrier body 4 or between the flange 5 and the first 2 and / or the second 3 housing part of the housing 1. FIG. 3 shows an enlarged view of the connection area between the housing parts 2, 3 and the flange 5.

The flange 5 has two bores 6, through which fastening elements, in particular screws, can extend, by means of which the catalyst carrier arrangement is connected to an exhaust system. The bores 6 lie on a common axis 10. The flange 5 is designed as a seal which has at least one sealing surface 9. As can be seen in particular from FIG. 1, the catalyst carrier body 4 has two channels 14 which are formed at a distance from one another and which have a larger cross section than the other channels 8 of the catalyst carrier body 4. The channels 14 are essentially formed in the central region of the catalyst carrier body 4. In the catalyst carrier body 4 shown in FIG. 1, the channels 14 are formed in the areas in which mandrels engage for the production of the catalyst carrier body 4. The catalyst carrier body is preferably produced in accordance with the method known from WO 97/00725 or WO 97/00135.

4 and 5 and 6 show a second embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a two-part housing 1. A catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged in the housing 1. The catalyst carrier body 4 has a multiplicity of channels 8 which are separated from one another by partition walls 7. The channels 8 extend in the longitudinal direction of the catalyst carrier body. The partition walls 7 can be formed by at least partially structured metal sheets.

The housing 1 is subdivided into a division plane E which runs essentially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the channels 8, so that the housing 1 has a first housing part 2 and a second housing part 3. Each housing part 2, 3 partially surrounds the catalyst carrier body 4.

A flange 5 is arranged between the first 2 and the second 3 housing part of the housing 1. The flange 5 is plate-shaped. It is arranged in the division plane E. The flange 5 has a through opening 13 through which the catalyst carrier body 4 extends. The shape of the passage opening 13 corresponds essentially to the outer contour of the catalyst carrier body 4. The inner edge 15 of the passage opening 13 lies on the outer jacket of the catalyst carrier body 4. The flange 5 is preferably soldered to the catalyst carrier body 4.

The flange 5 has sealing elements 11 with sealing surfaces 9 arranged on opposite surfaces. The sealing elements 11 end at a distance from the first 2 and the second 3 housing part, as can be seen in particular from FIG. 6.

The flange 5 is arranged between the housing parts 2, 3, as shown in FIG. 6. The mutually facing end faces of the housing parts 2, 3 abut the flange 5. The flange 5 extends as far as the catalyst carrier body 4. The flange 5 can be connected to the housing 1 or to the housing parts 2, 3 in the manner already described for the first exemplary embodiment.

7 and 8 show a further exemplary embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a housing 1 which is formed in two parts. The housing 1 has a first housing part 2 and a second housing part 3. The first 2 and the second 3 housing part are essentially tubular. A catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged within the housing 1. The catalyst carrier body 4 has a multiplicity of channels 8, which are separated from one another by partition walls 7 and extend in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body 4.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the catalyst carrier body 4 is formed by at least partially structured sheet metal layers which are essentially S-shaped, as can be seen from FIG. 7. Other configurations of the catalyst carrier body 4 are possible. The housing 1 is subdivided into a division plane E which runs essentially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the channels 8. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the division plane E is essentially in a plane of symmetry of the catalyst carrier body 4. However, this is not absolutely necessary.

A flange 5 is formed between the first 2 and the second 3 housing part. The flange 5 lies in the division plane E. The catalyst carrier body 4 penetrates the flange 5. For this purpose, the flange 5 has a through opening 13 which is adapted to the outer contour of the catalyst carrier body 4.

The flange 5 and the housing part 2 form a support unit 27. The housing part 2 and the flange 5 are connected to the housing part 2. The flange 5 is preferably soldered or welded to the housing part 2.

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 9, the second housing part 3 is spaced a certain distance in the axial direction from the flange 5.

The metallic catalyst carrier body 4 is preferably at least partially connected to the first 2 and the second 3 housing part of the housing 1. The connection between the catalyst carrier body 4 and the first 2 or the second 3 housing part is preferably a soldered connection. There is also preferably a soldered connection between the flange 5 and the catalyst carrier body 4.

The flange 5 has two bores 6, through which fastening elements, in particular screws, can extend, by means of which the catalyst carrier arrangement is connected to a cylinder head and / or a manifold of an internal combustion engine, not shown. The bores lie on a common axis 10.

The flange 5 is plate-shaped. It preferably forms a seal that has at least one sealing surface 9.

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 7, the catalyst carrier body 4 has two main channels 14 which are formed at a distance from one another and which have a larger cross section than the other channels 8 of the catalyst carrier body 4. The channels 14 are essentially formed in the central region of the catalyst carrier body 4. In the catalyst carrier body 4 shown in FIG. 7, the main channels 14 are formed in the areas in which mandrels engage for the production of the catalyst carrier body 4. The catalyst carrier body is preferably produced in accordance with the method known from WO 97/00725 or WO 97/00135.

10 shows a further embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in full section. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a catalyst carrier body 4. The catalyst carrier body 4 has a plurality of channels 8 which are separated from one another by partition walls 7 and which extend in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body.

The housing 1 surrounds the catalyst carrier body 4. The housing 1 has an extension in the longitudinal direction of the catalyst carrier body 1 that is smaller, in particular substantially smaller, than the length of the catalyst carrier body 4. The housing 1 is annular. The housing 1 is connected to a flange 5, which forms a support unit 27 with the housing 1. The flange 5 as such can form a seal.

The flange 5 has a through opening 13 through which the catalyst carrier body 4 extends. A section 43 adjacent to the through opening 13 projects into the housing 1. The housing 1 has a circumferential recess 44 into which the section 43 projects. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the recess 44 is in the form of a step, as can be seen from FIG. 11. The recess 44 is delimited by two essentially perpendicular surfaces, against which the flange 5 rests. The transition area between the flange 5 and the housing 1 is sharp-edged, so that the catalyst carrier arrangement can assume a predefined installation position. The flange 5 is connected to the housing 1, preferably by a solder connection to the housing 1. Alternatively, the flange 5 can be connected to the housing 1 by welding. The formation of the soldered connection between the flange 5 and the housing 1 can take place simultaneously with the formation of a soldered connection between the housing 1 and the catalyst support body. In order to ensure that the flange 5 does not leave its predetermined position when handling the unsoldered catalyst arrangement, it is proposed that the flange 5 be connected to the housing 1 in a non-positive and / or positive manner.

In addition to the housing 1 shown in FIG. 10, at least one housing part can be provided at a distance from the housing 1. Such an arrangement is particularly expedient when the catalyst carrier body 4 is an S-shaped, metallic catalyst carrier body. 12 and 13 and 14 show a further embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a one-piece housing 1. A catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged in the housing 1. The catalyst carrier body 4 has a multiplicity of channels 8 which are separated from one another by partition walls 7. The channels 8 extend in the longitudinal direction of the catalyst carrier body. The partition walls 7 can be formed by at least partially structured metal sheets.

The catalyst carrier arrangement has a flange 5. A section 43 of the flange 5 projects partially into the housing 1. The housing 1 has a receptacle 46 in its outer wall 45. Section 43 of flange 5 projects into receptacle 46. The receptacle 46 is formed by a groove. The groove 46 is formed circumferentially in the circumferential direction of the housing 1.

The connection, shown in particular in FIG. 14, between the flange 5 and the housing 1 can also be formed by dividing the housing 1 in the region of the receptacle 46.

The introduction of the section 43 of the flange 5 into the receptacle 46 of the housing 1 preferably takes place in that the outer diameter of the housing 1 in the unassembled state of the housing 1 is smaller than the inner diameter of the through opening 13, preferably somewhat smaller than the inner diameter of the through opening 13 of the flange 5. The flange 5 is positioned in the area of the receptacle 46. The housing 1 is then widened at least in the region of the receptacle 46, so that the section 43 of the flange 5 enters the receptacle 46. The expansion of the housing 1 can be achieved, for example, by plastic deformation of the housing 1. This plastic deformation can be achieved by mechanical action on the housing 1. A widening of the housing 1 can also take place in that the interior of the housing 1 is pressurized by a medium, in particular air.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the flange 5 has sealing elements 11 which are arranged on both sides of the flange 5. The sealing elements 11 end at a distance from the first 2 and the second 3 housing part, as can be seen in particular from FIG. 14.

The axial extent of the housing 1 essentially corresponds to the axial extent of the catalyst carrier body 4. This is not absolutely necessary. The axial extent of the individual or both housing parts 2, 3 can also be less than the axial extent of the catalyst carrier body 4. The catalyst carrier body 4 can also protrude from the housing 1.

FIGS. 15 to 17 show a further exemplary embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement. The catalyst carrier arrangement comprises a housing 1 and a flange 5. A catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged in the housing 1. The catalyst body 4 has a plurality of channels separated from one another by partition walls 7 and extending in the axial direction of the catalyst carrier body 4. The partition walls 7 extend essentially in the longitudinal direction of a longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body 4. FIG. 15 shows that the catalyst carrier body 4 is essentially S-shaped. It is formed by a plurality of at least partially structured sheet metal layers.

The flange 5 extends essentially radially outwards. It is essentially plate-shaped. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the flange 5 has two bores 6 through which suitable ones Fastening means, in particular screws, can extend through which the catalyst carrier arrangement is connected to an exhaust system. The holes 6 lie on a common axis 10. This is not mandatory. The flange 5 has sealing elements 11 on its opposite surfaces. The sealing elements have sealing surfaces 9. The seals 11 form a gas-tight connection between the exhaust system and the catalytic converter arrangement and between a housing of an engine, in particular an internal combustion engine.

The flange 5 has a through hole 13 through which the housing 1 extends. The flange 5 has a section 43 which is adjacent to the through hole 13. The section 43 of the flange 5 extends partially into the housing 1. The housing 1 has a receptacle 47 on its outer wall 45. Section 43 projects into receptacle 47. The receptacle 47 is formed by embossments 48 directed radially outwards. The embossments 48 are formed on both sides of the flange 5 in the exemplary embodiment shown. The embossments are bulge-like. They can also have a knob-like or different shape. The embossing can be formed by stamps or the like.

18 shows a structural unit 25 with a plurality of housings 1 which have a common flange 5. The flange 5 is connected to the housings 1. The flange 5 is formed essentially transversely to the longitudinal extent of the housing 1.

Each housing 1 is in the embodiment shown in FIG.

18 oval. Other cross sections of the housing 1 are possible. It is not absolutely necessary for each housing 1 to have the same transverse cut has. The adaptation of the cross sections of the housing 1 and the spacing of the housing 1 from one another can be different. The design of the cross sections of the housing and their arrangement relative to one another is essentially determined by the geometry of an internal combustion engine, in particular by the arrangement of the outlet channels and their number. In the exemplary embodiment shown, four housings 1 formed at a distance from one another are provided.

The flange 5 is preferably designed such that the opposite side surfaces 34, 35 each form a sealing surface. The side surfaces 34, 35 serve for the sealing connection of the assembly 25 between a cylinder head and a manifold of an internal combustion engine, not shown.

18 that the side surface 34 has a sealing surface 39 which is circumferential. Each housing 1 is arranged within the area of the flange 5 delimited by the sealing surface 39. Alternatively, each housing 1 can be surrounded by at least one sealing surface. Instead of the immediate formation of a sealing surface on the flange 5, a sealing element can also be used, which comes to rest against the collar 5.

To connect the assembly 25 to a cylinder head and / or a manifold of an internal combustion engine, the flange 5 has bores 6, through which a connecting element, for example a screw or a threaded pin, can extend.

Each housing 1 preferably has one in a space 28 of the housing

1 protruding stop 38. The stop 38 is preferably annular. The stop 38 can also be in the form of projections. be trained. The stop 38 serves to fix a catalyst carrier body arranged in the space 28 of the housing 1.

To fix the flange 5 to a cylinder head or a manifold, the flange 5 has bores 6 through which, for example, a screw can extend.

A catalyst support body 4 is arranged in each housing 1. The longitudinal extent of the catalyst carrier body 4 preferably corresponds to the axial length of the housing 1. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the catalyst carrier body 4 is a metallic honeycomb body which consists of smooth 29 and structured 30 sheets which delimit channels 8 for an exhaust gas. The catalyst carrier body 1 extend on both sides of the flange 5.

Instead of a metallic catalyst carrier body, a ceramic catalyst carrier body can also be used. With such a use of a ceramic catalyst carrier body, an insulating mat is arranged between the catalyst carrier body and the housing, as a result of which different thermal expansions of the honeycomb body are compressed in the structural unit.

The catalyst carrier arrangement according to the invention is particularly suitable for installation close to the engine. FIG. 19 shows the catalyst carrier arrangement shown in FIG. 2 in the installed state. A cylinder head 16 of an internal combustion engine has an outlet channel 17. The mouth of the outlet channel 17 is surrounded by a sealing surface 18.

A catalyst carrier body 4 partially projects into the outlet channel 17. The catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged in a two-part housing 1. net. The arranged in the support unit 27, which is formed by the flange 5 and the first housing part 2, section 10 of the catalyst carrier body 4 protrudes into the outlet channel 17. The flange 5 bears against a sealing surface 18 of the cylinder head 16. The flange 5 is designed as a metallic seal. Threaded bolts 19 extend through the openings 6 of the flange 5.

The second housing part 3 protrudes with the section 41 of the catalyst carrier body 4 arranged in the second housing part 3 into an exhaust gas duct 21 of the manifold 20. The exhaust duct 21 forms an exhaust gas flow path 42 for an exhaust gas of the internal combustion engine.

The manifold 20 has a nozzle 22. The nozzle 22 has bores 23 which are formed corresponding to the bores 6 of the flange 5. The threaded bolts 19, which are connected to the cylinder head 16, extend through the bores 6 of the flange 5 and the bores 23 of the connecting piece 22. To fix the elbow 20 and the flange 5 on the cylinder head 16, nuts 24 are screwed onto the threaded bolts 19.

As already stated above, the flange 5 is designed in the form of a metallic seal. This configuration of the flange 5 produces a gas-tight connection between the cylinder head 16 and the manifold 20. For this purpose, the flange 5 bears against the sealing surface 18 of the cylinder head 16. The connector 22 also has a sealing surface 26 which comes into contact with the flange 5. The manifold 20 forms part of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine with the catalyst carrier arrangement.

If an internal combustion engine has a plurality of outlet channels 17, a catalyst carrier arrangement can be introduced into each outlet channel. Reference list

Housing first housing part second housing part

Catalyst carrier body

flange

drilling

partition wall

channel

Sealing surface

axis

Sealing element

longitudinal axis

Through opening

Main channel

Inside edge

Cylinder head

Outlet channel

Sealing surface

threaded bolt

Manifold

Exhaust duct

Support

drilling

mother

Unit

Sealing surface

Support unit smooth sheet structured sheet

poetry

chamfer

Chamfer, 35 side faces

Transition area

Face

attack

Sealing surface, 41 section

Exhaust gas flow path

section

Recess

Outer wall, 47 receptacles

Embossing

Claims

claims

1. A catalyst carrier arrangement with a housing (1) in which at least one catalyst carrier body (4) with a plurality of channels (8) is arranged which are separated from one another by partition walls (7) and which extend in an axial direction of the catalyst carrier body (4) , And with at least one substantially radially outwardly directed flange (5) which surrounds at least the catalyst body (4) and which can be arranged between a cylinder head (16) and a manifold (20) of an internal combustion engine, characterized in that at least one section (43) of the flange (5) extends at least partially into the housing (1).

2. Catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (1) on or in its outer wall (45) has a receptacle (46, 47) into which at least a portion (43) of the flange (5) protrudes.

3. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the receptacle (46) is formed by a groove, in particular a circumferential groove.

4. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the receptacle (47) is formed by at least one radially outward embossing (48) in the outer wall (45).

5. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one embossment (48) is formed on both sides of the flange (5).

6. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the at least one embossing (48) is bead-like.

7. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the flange (5) extends up to the catalyst body (4).

8. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the housing (1) is formed by at least two housing parts (2, 3), each housing part (2, 3) over a part of the

Longitudinal extension of the catalyst carrier body (4) extends.

9. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the housing (1) has an extension in the longitudinal direction of the catalyst carrier body (4) which is smaller, preferably substantially smaller, than an axial length of the catalyst carrier body (4).

10. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the housing (1) or the housing parts (2, 3) is or are annular.

11. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the housing (1) and / or at least one housing part (2) has at least one stop which can be brought into contact with a catalyst carrier body (4).

12. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the flange (5) has at least one sealing surface (9).

13. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that the sealing surface (9) is substantially circumferential.

14. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that at least one sealing element (11) is arranged on the flange (5).

15. Catalyst carrier arrangement one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the flange (5) forms a seal.

16. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the flange (5) has at least one plate-shaped section.

17. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the flange (5) is at least soldered to the housing (1).

18. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the catalyst carrier body (4) is a metallic catalyst carrier body.

19. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 17, characterized in that the flange (5) is at least soldered to the catalyst carrier body (4).

20. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the catalyst carrier body (4) is a ceramic catalyst carrier body.

21. A catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the catalyst carrier body (4) at least one

Has area that has at least one main channel (14), which has a larger cross section than the other channels (8).

22. The assembly with at least two catalyst carrier arrangements according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the catalyst carrier arrangements have at least one common flange (5).

23. The unit according to claim 22, characterized in that each catalyst carrier (4) is arranged within a common sealing surface.

24. Exhaust system of an internal combustion engine with a catalyst carrier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 21 and / or with a structural unit according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the exhaust system has at least one exhaust gas flow path (42) in which a catalyst carrier body (4) is at least partially arranged.

25. Exhaust system according to claim 24, characterized in that a catalyst carrier body (4) is arranged in each flow path.

26. Exhaust system according to claim 24 or 25, characterized in that each catalyst carrier body (4) with housing (1) has a cross section which corresponds essentially to a cross section of the exhaust gas flow path (42).

27. Exhaust system according to claim 24, 25 or 26 with at least one manifold (20) having at least one connecting piece (22) for connection to an internal combustion engine, characterized in that the flange (5) at least partially on the connecting piece (22) is present.

28. Exhaust system according to claim 27, characterized in that the flange (5) is gas-tightly connected to the nozzle (22).