Johnson Matthey optimizes automotive catalyst manufacturing using pressure control

Johnson Matthey is a leading international car exhaust catalyst manufacturer. Automotive catalysts made by Johnson Matthey play a critical role in reducing the harmful carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and hydrocarbon emissions that automobiles produce.

Problem: Simulating operating conditions for catalyst optimization

Automobile operating conditions vary across differing geographies. To optimize the production of their catalysts, Johnson Matthey needed to simulate environments that reflected the operating conditions within which their product operated. Johnson Matthey’s goal was plant optimization and enhanced quality control, while also maximizing process efficiency and product performance.

Solution: Alicat pressure controllers

Premier Control Technologies and Johnson Matthey chose to use Alicat pressure controllers, due to their speed and control stability across a variety of environmental conditions. The Alicat pressure controller applies air pressure to a diaphragm-operated back pressure valve. This is then fitted to a custom-built catalyst drying apparatus. This arrangement allows Johnson Matthey to quickly change system pressures to simulate autocatalyst operating environments around the world, ensuring that motorists and the environment enjoy greener vehicles across the globe!