Did you know that the worldwide diesel engine market grew to a value of $207 billion during 2020? Analysts predict the market to grow another 4% by 2026. EGT sensors help keep all those engines running properly.
Do you know an EGT temp sensor? Do you know where to put the EGT sensor in your vehicle to work effectively?
The following guide will explain everything you need to know about a diesel EGT sensor and why it’s crucial to your engine’s health. Read on to learn about the EGT functionality and EGT sensor maintenance.
What Is an EGT Sensor?
EGT sensors identify exhaust gas temperatures. The results get relayed back to the engine control unit so that necessary action is taken.
Its main role in petrol engines is to protect crucial parts from the high temperatures associated with downsized engines. If the EGT sensor finds excessive temperatures it tells the ECU to lower boost pressure.
EGT sensors in diesel engines work similarly to track the temperature of the diesel particulate filter. This maintains the right temperature for regeneration and limits hazardous emissions.
It is typical to have three exhaust gas temperature sensors or more attached to the exhaust. One sits before the turbocharger, another sits before the DPF, and the third sits next to the particulate filter.
How Do EGT Sensors Work?
There are two main types of EGT sensors. One has a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) sensing element and the second sensor has a negative temperature coefficient (NTC).
The difference between the two sensors is how they function to measure the temperature. The NTC’s resistance lowers as the temperature rises. Alternatively, the PTC resistance rises in sync with the temperature.
Both sensor types assign a temperature to an ECU’s resistance so that it can make the proper adjustments.
Maintenace To Avoid Sensor Failure:
Exposure to extremely high temperatures is a typical cause of exhaust gas temperature sensors failing. Temperatures over 900°C often cause damage to sensors which is what they protect other parts from.
Intense vibration also tends to loosen internal connections so tightening is important. Any bends or twisting might cause the sensor wire to break and leave them vulnerable to damage while replacing other parts in the exhaust.
Fluids like oil or antifreeze might also contaminate and affect the sensor’s response functions. This can cause it to move out of position and give inaccurate readings to the ECU.
The check engine light triggers when something is wrong with sensors so always look for those prompts.
A drop in fuel efficiency is another sign that your EGT sensors might not be functioning properly. Faulty sensors also lead to lead to unnecessary regenerations that waste the time of the driver.
Failed emissions tests and other competent failures are also red flags that might involve a problem with EGT sensors.
Understanding EGT Sensors:
Now you know what EGT sensors are, how they work, and how to identify the need for maintenance. Remember this guide and keep this component of your exhaust system working and your engine running smoothly.
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