Catalytic converter assembly with bypass

Claim 1

A compact catalytic converter assembly adapted to be inserted in alignment with and between portions of the exhaust pipe of an automotive type vehicle for receiving exhaust gases therefrom and redirecting exhaust gases thereto, including an outer hollow shell essentially oval in cross-section having an essentially circular exhaust gas inlet opening at one side, means dividing the opening into first and second exhaust gas tracts, first and second passages in parallel side-by-side relationship connected respectively to the tracts for the passage of exhaust gases therethrough, a discharge plenum connected to the opposite ends of the passages adapted to be connected to the exhaust pipe, the first passage containing a catalyst bed, the second passage constituting a bypass passage for passing the exhaust gases through the assembly bypassing the catalyst bed, selectively movable valve means in the inlet movable to positions alternately directing flow of exhaust gases through the first or second tract while blocking the other tract, and means to insulate the bed from the hot exhaust gases passing through the bypass passage including divider means between the passages providing a dead air gap therebetween.