A further improved compact reversing flow
catalytic converter with protection from overheating includes an improved valve unit which directs exhaust gases through a container filled with catalytic material to permit a bypass of catalytic material when a temperature of the material exceeds a predetermined threshold. The container defines a U-shaped gas passage that communicates with two chambers at the top of the container. The improved valve unit is mounted to the top of the container and includes two container chamber extension cavities, an improved intake cavity and an improved exhaust cavity. The improved valve unit includes an improved valve
flapper and two conjoined valve walls each wall with two openings therethrough. The improved valve
flapper rotates around normal central axis between a first, a second and third positions. When overheating of the catalytic material is predicted, a controller relinquishes control of the improved valve
flapper and an improved center return mechanism rotates the improved valve flapper to a third position, in which each of the valve openings communicates with both inlet and exhaust ports so that the
exhaust gas flow bypasses catalytic material. A
fuel injection system under control of the controller is used so that measured amounts of fuel can be injected into the container reaction core to enhance oxidation. The catalytic material is thus protected from damage due to overheating. The
advantage is a compact, reliable, highly efficient further improved
catalytic converter that is inexpensive to manufacture, durable, and adapted for extended service life. The improved valve may driven by a
stepper motor that moves and holds the valve to its three positions including bypass, forward and reverse flow. An alternate version also replaces the oxidizing flow-through
monolith with an oxidizing filter trap.