Air Injection Check Valve: Description and Operation
The Air Check Valve is designed to protect the air pump from harmful reverse flow of hot exhaust gases. The Check Valve contains a spring-type metallic disc or reed that closes the air line under exhaust backpressure. Check Valves are located between the air manifold and the diverter or control valve.
If exhaust pressure is higher than air injection pressure, or if the air pump fails, the check valve spring closes the valve to prevent reverse flow of exhaust.