EP1009924B1 - Catalyst support assembly to be mounted in an engine compartment - Google Patents

Description

The object of the invention relates to a catalyst carrier arrangement and an assembly and an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine.

For the catalytic conversion of components of an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine it is known on a catalyst carrier body to apply at least one catalytically active substance. 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 form a catalyst carrier body honeycomb. The catalyst carrier body can consist of at least partially structured sheet metal layers. be educated. Furthermore, catalyst carrier bodies are known which consist of a ceramic material exist. Such catalyst carrier body extruded.

The catalyst carrier body is arranged in a housing which is a 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 is a housing with a catalyst carrier body known, which in particular for installation close to the engine within the Exhaust system is suitable. The housing has a larger cross section on than the catalyst carrier body. The housing has an approximately rectangular shape Opening whose length is greater than the maximum length of the Catalyst carrier body and its width is greater than the maximum width of the Catalyst carrier body is. The catalyst carrier body is on a flat or arched mounting plate attached, which has a greater length and width than the opening in the case. The holding plate serves as a cover for the Housing, wherein the catalyst carrier body in an interior of the housing protrudes. This will simplify the installation and removal of the Allows catalyst carrier body in or out of the housing.

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

Especially in internal combustion engines that are used in passenger vehicles to be installed is to install a catalyst carrier body close to the engine not without problems, since the spatial conditions within one Engine compartment of the vehicle are relatively cramped.

DE 26 35 725 A1 describes a catalyst carrier arrangement with a Housing in which at least one catalyst carrier body is arranged known. The catalyst carrier body has a plurality of by partition walls separated from each other, in an axial direction of the catalyst carrier body extending channels. The housing has an im essentially radially outward flange. The flange is between a cylinder head and a manifold of an internal combustion engine arranged. The housing with the flange is made in one piece.

A catalyst carrier arrangement is known from DE 43 17 092 A1, which is arranged in the exhaust manifold of an internal combustion engine. The The catalyst carrier arrangement has a housing which is frame-shaped is trained. The frame-shaped housing has collar-shaped flanges on both a radial and an axial tight fit of a Ensure catalyst carrier body in the housing. The housing is with connected to a flange. The flange is one of the collar-shaped Welded flanges. From DE 43 17 092 A1 it is also known that the flange can be connected to several housings.

DE 43 22 526 A1 is a further embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement known for an internal combustion engine. The catalyst carrier assembly has a housing in which a catalyst carrier body is arranged. A flange is connected to the housing, one Has collar, which is fixed to the housing. The flange becomes common fixed with an exhaust pipe on the cylinder head of an internal combustion engine.

The present invention is based on the objective of a catalyst carrier arrangement specify that is structurally simple and a close to the engine Installation. allows. Another object of the invention is a structural unit specify by the assembly of at least two catalyst carrier bodies is simplified in the vicinity of the internal combustion engine. On Another object of the invention is an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine indicate which one with a low. Effort can be produced.

This object is achieved by a catalyst carrier arrangement according to claim 1, a unit according to claim 22 or an exhaust system according to claim 24 solved. Advantageous further developments and refinements of the catalyst carrier arrangement, the unit or the exhaust system are the subject of respective subclaims.

The configuration of the catalyst arrangement according to the invention has Housing in which a catalyst carrier body with a variety of separated from each other by partitions, in an axial direction of the Extending catalyst carrier body, channels is arranged. The housing extends at least partially in an axial direction of the catalyst carrier body. The arrangement according to the invention has a housing that at least one essentially radially outward, the catalyst carrier body at least partially surrounding, flange that between a cylinder head and a manifold of an internal combustion engine can be arranged. The flange has at least a portion that protrudes at least partially into the outer wall of the housing. Through this configuration the catalyst arrangement according to the invention is between the housing and the flange formed a sharp transition, so that the invention Catalyst carrier arrangement requires a relatively small installation space. In particular, there is already existing internal combustion engines the problem that this with such catalyst carrier arrangements cannot be retrofitted, since a catalyst carrier arrangement, such as that for example is known from DE 43 22 526 A1, in the transition area between the flange and housing has a radius of curvature. An assembly of a Such a catalyst carrier arrangement is only possible by adapting the others Components possible. Such an adaptation of the exhaust manifold or The cylinder head is in the configuration of the catalyst carrier arrangement according to the invention not mandatory.

Characterized in that the flange at least partially into the housing extends, is also a relief of a connection between the flange and Housing reached because part of the on the catalyst carrier body and that Forces acting via the housing directly into the flange is initiated. The relief of the connection between the housing and the flange also has a positive effect on the durability of the catalyst carrier assembly.

By designing the catalyst carrier arrangement according to the invention will also retrofit 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 that the catalyst carrier body at least partially in an outlet channel an internal combustion engine can be introduced. Through this Arrangement is achieved that the catalyst carrier body with a Catalyst is quickly brought to its operating temperature can, so that a reduction in emissions of pollutant components during a cold start phase of an internal combustion engine, in particular of an engine of a vehicle.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the catalyst carrier arrangement proposed that the housing on or in its outer wall a Has receptacle into which at least a portion of the flange protrudes. The reception is preferably through a groove, in particular a circumferential one Groove, formed. The flange has a through opening, which is preferably has an inside diameter that is larger than the outside diameter of the housing. The flange is positioned in the area of the groove. By a radially outward deformation of the housing, at least in the area of the groove, the section of the flange enters the receptacle into it. The plastic deformation of the housing can be done in that the housing is placed under a sufficiently high internal pressure. Possibly finds the deformation of the housing at an elevated temperature instead of.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the catalyst arrangement it is proposed that the inclusion by at least one radially outward directional embossing is formed in the outer wall. The imprint is preferably formed like a bead.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention suggested that a portion of the flange extend up to the catalyst carrier body extends. With 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 proposed that the housing extend in the axial direction of the Has catalyst carrier body, the small, preferably much 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 assembly faster can be achieved. Another advantage of this configuration is that to see that the outer dimensions of the catalyst carrier assembly on a necessary dimension can be reduced, so that with an arrangement of Catalyst carrier assembly in an exhaust of an internal combustion engine enlarging an outlet duct is not necessary. It is also achieved that the free flow cross section in the outlet channel through the catalyst carrier arrangement the flow behavior is only insignificantly reduced of the exhaust gas is negligibly influenced.

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

For example, instead of a spiral wound catalyst carrier body an S-shaped wound catalyst carrier body arranged in the housing be, it is proposed that the housing by at least two Housing parts is formed, with each housing part over a part of Longitudinal extension of the catalyst carrier body extends. This configuration The housing has the advantage that the catalyst carrier body is spread open is prevented by the housing parts. It is not necessary that the Total length of the individual housing parts of the total length of the catalyst carrier body equivalent. Free between individual housing parts Sections are available. If the housing is long enough, a S-shaped, wound catalyst carrier body in a one-piece housing to be ordered.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the catalyst carrier arrangement it is proposed that the housing or the housing parts are annular or is sleeve-shaped. This configuration has the Advantage that the housing or the housing parts can be produced relatively easily are. The outer contour of the housing or the housing parts corresponds preferably the cross section of the outlet channel or of the Exhaust duct connecting exhaust gas flow path.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention proposed that the flange with a housing or with a housing part forms a supporting unit. This has the advantage of being manipulated several parts is not necessary.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the support unit, it is proposed that that the housing or a housing part at least one for Has contact to a catalyst carrier body bring stop. This results in a defined installation position of a catalyst carrier body allows within the housing or the housing part.

The catalyst carrier arrangement is preferably designed such that the Flange at least one sealing surface for gas-tight connection with a Has 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 in which the flange itself forms a seal. Such an embodiment of the Catalyst support arrangement is particularly in an immediate. arrangement the catalyst carrier arrangement on the internal combustion engine, because there is no need for additional sealants. So forms the Flange a gasket between an engine block and a manifold Internal combustion engine. Due to the proximity of the catalyst carrier arrangement a becomes relative to the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine achieved rapid heating of the catalyst carrier body, whereby inside shortly the catalyst carrier arrangement unfold its full effectiveness can. 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, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the flange can, since an exact formation of sealing surfaces on the flange is not necessary is.

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 is. This is preferably a monolithic honeycomb body. The use of a metallic catalyst carrier body has the advantage that the catalyst carrier body at least with the housing and / or the flange is solderable, so that an increased Stability of the catalyst carrier arrangement is achieved.

The metallic catalyst carrier body can be at least partially structured Sheet layers exist. Alternatively, the catalyst carrier body can be made of be made of a sintered metal.

Instead of a metallic catalyst carrier body, a ceramic one Catalyst carrier bodies are used. However, this is too note that the different thermal expansions due to different Expansion coefficients of the materials of the catalyst carrier body and the case, which is a metallic case acts 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 at least one Has area that has at least one channel that opposite the other Channels has an enlarged cross section. By this measure is caused that the flow behavior of the exhaust gas flow is not or only is influenced to a very small extent by the catalyst support. This influence is particularly important if this one Feedback on the mixture formation within a combustion chamber an internal combustion engine.

According to a further inventive idea, a structural unit is included at least two catalyst carrier arrangements according to one of claims 1 to 21 proposed, wherein the catalyst support arrangements have a common Have flange. The number of catalyst support assemblies preferably corresponds to a number of the exhaust ducts of an internal combustion engine. As a result, the assembly effort of the catalyst carrier arrangements can be reduced. In a unit whose Number of catalyst carrier arrangements, the number of outlet channels one Combustion engine corresponds, with a suitable design of the Internal combustion engine and design of the structural unit adapted to this, this unit is directly connected to the internal combustion engine so that part of each catalyst carrier body in protrudes an exhaust port of the internal combustion engine.

Such a unit is preferably designed such that each Catalyst carrier is arranged within a sealing surface. alternative can be appropriate for each catalyst carrier on the common collar Seals are formed.

According to a further idea according to the invention, an exhaust system an internal combustion engine with a catalyst carrier arrangement one of claims 1 to 21 and / or with a structural unit according to claim 22 or 23 proposed, wherein the exhaust system has at least one exhaust gas flow path has, in which the catalyst carrier (s) at least partially is / are arranged. The exhaust system according to the invention enables one Installation of catalyst carrier bodies in the immediate vicinity of an internal combustion engine.

There is preferably one catalyst carrier body in each flow path arranged, thereby reducing the emission of pollutant components of the exhaust gas can be reduced.

In order to make the exhaust system as effective as possible, and in order 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 elbow which has at least one flange for connection has an internal combustion engine, it is proposed that the Collar at least partially abuts the flange. In particular, the Collar designed so that it can be connected to the flange in a gastight manner.

Fig. 1

ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Katalysatorträgeranordnung in einer Vorderansicht,

Fig. 2

die Katalysatorträgeranordnung nach Fig. 1 in einer Seitenansicht und im Schnitt,

Fig. 3

vergrößert eine Einzelheit X nach Fig. 2,

Fig. 4

ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel einer Katalysatorträgeranordnung in einer Vorderansicht,

Fig. 5

die Katalysatorträgeranordnung nach Fig. 4 im Vollschnitt,

Fig. 6

eine Einzelheit X nach Fig. 5,

Fig. 7

ein drittes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Katalysatorträgeranordnung in einer Vorderansicht,

Fig. 8

die Katalysatorträgeranordnung nach Fig. 7 in einer Seitenansicht und im Vollschnitt,

Fig. 9

vergrößert eine Einzelheit X nach Fig. 8,

Fig. 10

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel einer Katalysatorträgeranordnung im Vollschnitt,

Fig. 11

eine Einzelheit X nach Fig. 10,

Fig. 12

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel einer Katalysatorträgeranordnung in einer Vorderansicht,

Fig. 13

die Katalysatorträgeranordnung nach Fig. 12 in einer Seitenansicht und im Vollschnitt,

Fig. 14

eine Einzelheit X nach Fig. 13,

Fig. 15

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel einer Katalysatorträgeranordnung in einer Vorderansicht,

Fig. 16

die Katalysatorträgeranordnung nach Fig. 15 in einer Seitenansicht und im Vollschnitt,

Fig. 17

eine Einzelheit X nach Fig. 16,

Fig. 18

ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Trageinheit mit Katalysatorträgerkörper in einer Draufsicht und

Fig. 19

einen Teil eines Abgassystems im Vollschnitt.

Further details and advantages of the invention are explained with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawing. Show it:

Fig. 1

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

Fig. 2

1 in a side view and in section,

Fig. 3

enlarges a detail X according to FIG. 2,

Fig. 4

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

Fig. 5

4 in full section,

Fig. 6

a detail X according to FIG. 5,

Fig. 7

A third embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

Fig. 8

7 in a side view and in full section,

Fig. 9

enlarges a detail X according to FIG. 8,

Fig. 10

another embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in full section,

Fig. 11

a detail X according to FIG. 10,

Fig. 12

another embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

Fig. 13

12 in a side view and in full section,

Fig. 14

a detail X according to FIG. 13,

Fig. 15

another embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in a front view,

Fig. 16

15 in a side view and in full section,

Fig. 17

a detail X according to FIG. 16,

Fig. 18

a first embodiment of a support unit with catalyst carrier body in a plan view and

Fig. 19

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. Inside the housing 1 is a catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged. The catalyst carrier 4 has a plurality of separated by partitions 7, in Longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body 4, Channels 8 on. In the illustrated embodiment, the Catalyst carrier body 4 by at least partially structured sheet metal layers formed, which are essentially S-shaped intertwined. Other configurations of the catalyst carrier body 4 are possible. The catalyst carrier body can also be made of a non-metallic material, in particular Ceramics exist.

The housing 1 is in a substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction of the Channels 8 dividing division level E divided. In the illustrated The division plane E is essentially in one embodiment Plane of symmetry of the catalyst carrier body 4. However, this is not mandatory necessary. The housing can also be divided asymmetrically.

A flange 5 is located between the first 2 and the second 3 housing part arranged. The flange 5 is arranged in the division plane E. The Catalyst carrier body 4 penetrates the flange 5 Flange 5 is adapted to the outer contour of the catalyst carrier body 4 Through opening 13. The flange 5 extends to the catalyst body 4 through the housing 1.

The metallic catalyst carrier body 4 is at least partially with the first 2 and the second 3 housing part of the housing 1 connected. The Connection between the catalyst carrier body 4 and the first 2 or the second 3 housing part is preferably a solder connection. Also between the flange 5 and the catalyst carrier body 4 preferably consists a solder joint. Additionally or alternatively, between the Flange 5 and the first 2 and / or the second 3 housing part of the Housing 1 is a solder joint. 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 by welding, in particular by laser welding, friction welding, Arc welding or resistance welding can be formed.

The flange 5 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 12 of the Catalyst carrier body 4. It is also essentially perpendicular to Housing 1 is formed. The fact that the flange 5 up to the catalyst carrier body 4 extends is a sharp-edged transition between the Given flange 5 and the housing 1. This sharp-edged transition between the flange 5 and the housing 1 enables a very accurate Positioning of the catalyst carrier arrangement in the exhaust duct of an exhaust system. In particular, it is not mandatory to have the edge of a Machining the exhaust port on the cylinder. The fact that the flange 5th stretched into the housing 1, the catalyst carrier body 4 forces acting on the housing 1 via the housing 3 in the Flange 5 initiated. In the illustrated embodiment, the End faces of the housing parts 2, 3 on the flange 5. Over these faces becomes a force acting on the catalyst carrier body, the is caused by the flowing exhaust gas, introduced into the flange 5. This will reduce the load on the connection between the Flange 5 and the catalyst carrier body 4 or between the flange 5th and the first 2 and / or the second 3 housing part of the housing 1 relieved. Figure 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, especially screws, can extend through them the catalyst carrier arrangement is connected to an exhaust system. The Bores 6 lie on a common axis 10. The flange 5 is as a seal is formed which has at least one sealing surface 9.

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 1, the catalyst carrier body 4 two channels 14 formed at a distance from each other compared to the other channels 8 of the catalyst carrier 4 one have a larger cross-section. The main channels 14 are essentially in central region of the catalyst carrier body 4 is formed. The one in the 1 are the main channels 14 in the Areas formed in which mandrels for the production of the catalyst carrier body 4 intervene. The production of the catalyst carrier body is preferably carried out according to that by WO 97/00725 or WO 97/00135 known method.

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

The housing 1 is in a substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction of the Channels 8 dividing plane E divided, so that the housing 1 has first housing part 2 and a second housing part 3. Each one Housing part 2, 3 partially surrounds the catalyst carrier body 4.

Is between the first 2 and the second 3 housing part of the housing 1 a flange 5 is arranged. The flange 5 is plate-shaped. He 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 through opening 13 corresponds essentially to the outer contour of the catalyst carrier body 4. The inner edge 15 of the through opening 13 lies against 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 arranged on opposite surfaces 11 with sealing surfaces 9. The sealing elements 11 end with Distance to the first 2 and the second 3 housing part, as in particular 6 can be seen.

The flange 5 is arranged between the housing parts 2, 3, as is the case Figure 6 represents. The mutually facing end faces of the housing parts 2, 3 rest on the flange 5. The flange 5 extends to Catalyst carrier body 4. The connection of the flange 5 with the housing 1 or with the housing parts 2, 3 can already in the first embodiment set out manner.

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. Inside the housing 1 is a catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged. The catalyst carrier 4 has a plurality of separated by partitions 7, in Longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body 4, Channels 8 on.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the catalyst carrier body 4 formed by at least partially structured sheet metal layers, which essentially S-shaped are entwined, as can be seen from FIG. 7. Other configurations of the catalyst carrier body 4 are possible.

The housing 1 is in a substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction of the Channels 8 dividing division level E divided. In the illustrated The division plane E is essentially in one embodiment Plane of symmetry of the catalyst carrier body 4. However, this is not mandatory necessary.

A flange 5 is located between the first 2 and the second 3 housing part educated. 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 passage opening adapted to the outer contour of the catalyst carrier body 4 13 on.

The flange 5 and the housing part 2 form a support unit 27. Das 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 at a certain distance in the axial direction from the flange 5 spaced.

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 The first 2 or the second 3 housing part is preferably a soldered connection. Also between the flange 5 and the catalyst carrier body 4 there is preferably a solder connection.

The flange 5 has two bores 6 through which fastening elements, especially screws, can extend through them the catalyst carrier arrangement with a cylinder head and / or a Manifold connected to an internal combustion engine, not shown becomes. The bores lie on a common axis 10.

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

As can be seen in particular from FIG. 7, the catalyst carrier body 4 on two main channels 14 formed at a distance from each other compared to the other channels 8 of the catalyst carrier 4 one have a larger cross-section. The main channels 14 are essentially in central region of the catalyst carrier body 4 is formed. The one in the The catalyst carrier body 4 shown in FIG. 7 are the main channels 14 in trained in the areas in which mandrels for the production of Intervene catalyst carrier body 4. The production of the catalyst carrier body is preferably carried out in accordance with that of WO 97/00725 or Methods known from WO 97/00135.

10 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement in full cut. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a catalyst carrier body 4 on. The catalyst carrier body 4 has a large number of separated from each other by partitions 7, in the longitudinal direction of the Channels 8 extending along 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, the is smaller, in particular significantly smaller, than the length of the catalyst carrier body 4th

The housing 1 is annular. The housing 1 is with a Flange 5 connected, 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 Extends catalyst carrier body 4. One of the through opening 13 adjacent section 43 protrudes into the housing 1. The housing 1 has a circumferential recess 44 into which the section 43 projects. In the illustrated embodiment, the recess 44 is in Formed a step, as can be seen from Figure 11. The Recess 44 is by two substantially perpendicular to each other Limited areas on which the flange 5 abuts. The transition area between the flange 5 and the housing 1 is sharp, so that the catalyst carrier arrangement assume a predefined installation position can. The flange 5 is preferably connected to the housing 1 by a Solder connection connected to the housing 1. Alternatively, the flange 5 be connected to the housing 1 by welding. Training the Solder connection between the flange 5 and the housing 1 can be done simultaneously with the formation of a solder connection between the housing 1 and the catalyst carrier body. To ensure that the flange 5 its given when handling the unsoldered catalyst assembly Position does not leave, it is proposed that the flange 5 with the housing 1 is non-positively and / or positively connected.

In addition to the housing 1 shown in FIG. 10 can be at a distance at least one housing part may be provided for the housing 1. Such Arrangement is particularly useful when it is in the catalyst carrier body 4 around an S-shaped, metallic catalyst carrier body is.

12 and 13 and 14 show a further embodiment of a catalyst carrier arrangement. The catalyst carrier arrangement has a one-piece Housing 1 on. A catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged in the housing 1. The catalyst carrier body 4 has a plurality of by partition walls 7 channels 8 separated from one another. The channels 8 extend in Longitudinal direction of the catalyst carrier body. The partitions 7 can by at least partially structured sheets are formed.

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

The connection between the Flange 5 and the housing 1 can also be formed in that the Housing 1 is divided in the region of the receptacle 46.

The introduction of the section 43 of the flange 5 in the receptacle 46 of the Housing 1 is preferably made in that the outer diameter of the Housing 1 in the unmounted state of the housing 1 is smaller than that Inner diameter of the through opening 13, preferably slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the through hole 13 of the flange 5. The Flange 5 is positioned in the area of the receptacle 46. After that it will Housing 1 expanded at least in the region of the receptacle 46, so that the Section 43 of the flange 5 enters the receptacle 46. The widening of the housing 1 can, for example, by plastic deformation of the housing 1 can be reached. This plastic deformation can be caused by mechanical action on the housing 1 can be achieved. A widening of the housing 1 can also be done in that the interior of the housing 1 through a medium, in particular air, and pressurized becomes.

In the illustrated embodiment, 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 corresponds essentially to that axial extension of the catalyst carrier body 4. This is not mandatory 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 be removed from the housing 1 protrude.

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 by partition walls 7 separated from each other, in the axial direction of the catalyst carrier body 4 extending channels. The partitions 7 extend in essentially in the longitudinal direction of a longitudinal axis 12 of the catalyst carrier body 4. Figure 15 shows that the catalyst carrier body 4 essentially S-shaped. It is by a plurality of at least partially structured sheet metal layers.

The flange 5 extends essentially radially outwards. He is in essentially plate-shaped. The flange 5 has in the illustrated Embodiment two holes 6 through which are suitable Can extend fastening means, in particular screws, by means of which the catalyst carrier arrangement is connected to an exhaust system becomes. The bores 6 lie on a common axis 10. This is not mandatory. The flange 5 faces its opposite Surfaces of sealing elements 11. The sealing elements have sealing surfaces 9 on. Through the seals 11 is a gas-tight connection between the exhaust system and the catalyst arrangement and between a housing of an engine, in particular an internal combustion engine, educated.

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

18 shows an assembly 25 with a plurality of housings 1, one have common flange 5. The flange 5 is with the housings 1 connected. The flange 5 is substantially transverse to the longitudinal extent of the Housing 1 is formed.

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 that each housing 1 has the same cross section having. The adjustment of the cross sections of the housing 1 and the The distance between the housing 1 can be different. The design the cross sections of the housing and their arrangement relative to each other is essentially determined by the geometry of an internal combustion engine, in particular the arrangement of the outlet channels and their number, certainly. In the illustrated embodiment, four are at a distance housing 1 formed to each other is provided.

The flange 5 is preferably designed so that the opposite Side surfaces 34, 35 each form a sealing surface. The side surfaces 34, 35 serve to seal the assembly 25 between one Cylinder head and a manifold of an internal combustion engine, not shown.

In particular, it can be seen from FIG. 18 that the side surface 34 is a Has sealing surface 39 which is circumferential. Each housing 1 is within the area of the flange delimited by the sealing surface 39 5 arranged. Alternatively, each housing 1 of at least one Be sealed surface. Instead of the immediate formation of a sealing surface a sealing element can also be used on the flange 5, which comes to rest on the collar.

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

Each housing 1 preferably has one in a space 28 of the housing 1 protruding stop 38. The stop 38 is preferably ring-shaped. The stop 38 can also be in the form of projections be trained. The stop 38 is used to define a Space 28 of the housing 1 arranged catalyst carrier body.

To fix the flange 5 to a cylinder head or an elbow the flange 5 has holes 6 through which, for example, a Screw can extend through.

A catalyst carrier body 4 is arranged in each housing 1. The longitudinal extension of the catalyst carrier body 4 preferably corresponds to that axial length of the housing 1. In the illustrated embodiment the catalyst carrier body 4 is a metallic honeycomb body made of smooth 29 and 30 structured sheets, the channels 8 for an exhaust gas limit. The catalyst carrier body 1 extend on both sides of the flange 5th

Instead of a metallic catalyst carrier body, a ceramic one can also be used Catalyst carrier bodies are used. With such use a ceramic catalyst carrier body is between the catalyst carrier body and the housing arranged an insulation mat, making different thermal expansion of the honeycomb body in the assembly be compressed.

The catalyst carrier arrangement according to the invention is particularly for one Suitable for installation near the motor. Fig. 19 shows that shown in Fig. 2 Catalyst carrier arrangement in the installed state. A cylinder head 16 an internal combustion engine has an outlet duct 17. The 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. The one in the support unit 27, through the flange 5 and the first Housing part 2 is formed, arranged section 40 of the catalyst carrier body 4 protrudes into the outlet channel 17. The flange 5 lies on one Sealing surface 18 of the cylinder head 16. The flange 5 is as a metallic Seal trained. Extend through the openings 6 of the flange 5 threaded bolts 19.

The second housing part 3 projects with that in the second housing part 3 arranged section 41 of the catalyst carrier body 4 in an exhaust duct 21 of the manifold 20 into it. 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 holes 23, which are formed corresponding to the bores 6 of the flange 5. Through the holes 6 of the flange 5 and the holes 23 of the nozzle 22 extend the threaded bolts 19 which are connected to the cylinder head 16 are. To fix the manifold 20 and the flange 5 on the Cylinder head 16 are screwed onto the threaded bolts 19 nuts 24.

As already stated above, the flange 5 is in the form of a metallic one Seal trained. This configuration of the flange 5 a gas-tight connection between the cylinder head 16 and the manifold 20 manufactured. For this purpose, the flange 5 lies on the sealing surface 18 of the Cylinder head 16 on. The connector 22 also has a sealing surface 26, which comes to rest on the flange 5. The manifold 20 forms with the Catalyst carrier arrangement part of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine.

If an internal combustion engine has a plurality of outlet channels 17, it can a catalyst support assembly may be placed in each exhaust port.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

casing

2

first housing part

3

second housing part

4

Catalyst support body

5

flange

6

drilling

7

partition wall

8th

channel

9

sealing surface

10

axis

11

sealing element

12

longitudinal axis

13

Through opening

14

main channel

15

inner edge

16

cylinder head

17

outlet channel

18

sealing surface

19

threaded bolt

20

elbow

21

exhaust duct

22

Support

23

drilling

24

mother

25

unit

26

sealing surface

27

support unit

28

room

29

smooth sheet metal

30

structured sheet

31

poetry

34.35

faces

36

Transition area

37

face

38

attack

39

sealing surface

40.41

section

42

exhaust gas flow path

43

section

44

recess

45

outer wall

46.47

admission

48

embossing

Claims (28)

1. A catalyst carrier arrangement having a housing (1) in which at least one catalyst carrier body (4) with a multiplicity of passages (8), which are separated from one another by partitions (7) and extend in an axial direction of the catalyst carrier body (4), is arranged, and having at least one flange (5) which is directed essentially radially outwards, surrounds at least one catalyst carrier body (4) and can be arranged between a cylinder head (16) and a manifold (20) of an internal combustion engine, characterized in that at least a section (43) of the flange (5) extends at least partially into the outer wall (45) of the housing (1).
2. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the housing (1) has a recess (46, 47), into which at least a section (43) of the flange (5) projects, on or in its outer wall (45).
3. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the recess (46) is formed by a groove, in particular an encircling groove.
4. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the recess (47) is formed by at least one bulge (48), which is directed radially outward, in the outer wall (45).
5. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that in each case at least one bulge (48) is formed on both sides of the flange (5).
6. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the at least one bulge (48) is formed in the manner of a bead.
7. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that at least a section of the flange (5) extends as far as the catalyst carrier body (4).
8. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in 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) extending over part of the longitudinal extent of the catalyst carrier body (4).
9. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the extent of the housing (1) in the longitudinal direction of the catalyst carrier body (4) is smaller, preferably significantly smaller, than an axial length of the catalyst carrier body (4).
10. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the housing (1) or the housing parts (2, 3) is or are of annular design.
11. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the housing (1) or at least one housing part (2) has at least one stop which can be brought to bear against the catalyst carrier body (4).
12. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the flange (5) has at least one sealing surface (9).
13. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that the sealing surface (9) is designed so as to run essentially in a continuous circle.
14. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 12 or 13, characterized in that at least one sealing element (11) is arranged on the flange (5).
15. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the flange (5) forms a seal.
16. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the flange (5) has at least one plate-like section.
17. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the flange (5) is soldered at least to the housing (1).
18. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the catalyst carrier body (4) is a metallic catalyst carrier body.
19. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that the flange (5) is soldered at least to the catalyst carrier body (4).
20. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the catalyst carrier body (4) is a ceramic catalyst carrier body.
21. The catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the catalyst carrier body (4) has at least one region which has at least one main passage (14) which has a larger cross-section than the further passages (8).
22. A structural unit having at least two catalyst carrier arrangements as claimed in one of claims 1 to 21, in which the catalyst carrier arrangements have at least one common flange (5) that can be arranged between a cylinder head (16) and a manifold (20) of an internal combustion engine.
23. The structural unit as claimed in claim 22, characterized in that each catalyst carrier (4) is arranged inside a common sealing surface, wherein the flange (5) forms the sealing surface.
24. An exhaust system of an internal combustion engine having a catalyst carrier arrangement as claimed in one of claims 1 to 21 and/or having a structural unit as claimed in claim 22 or 23, in which the exhaust system has at least one exhaust flow path (42) in which the catalyst carrier body/the catalyst carrier bodies (4) is/are at least partially arranged.
25. The exhaust system as claimed in claim 24, characterized in that a catalyst carrier body (4) is in each case arranged in every flow path.
26. The exhaust system as claimed in claim 24 or 25, characterized in that each catalyst carrier body (4) with housing (1) has a cross-section which essentially corresponds to a cross-section of the exhaust flow path (42).
27. The exhaust system as claimed in claim 24, 25 or 26, having at least one manifold (20) which has at least one connection piece (22) for connection to an internal combustion engine, characterized in that the flange (5) bears at least partially against the connection piece (22).
28. The exhaust system as claimed in claim 27, characterized in that the flange (5) is connected to the connection piece (22) in a gastight manner.

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