Yamaha 700 exhaust burnout

[TLAM]

This is on the exhaust side of the system on a 2008 700 Rhino. I have two units and both have this hole burned through. They are both running great, I just happened to notice it while working on it.

Does anyone know why this happens? Can it cause any further damage?

Thanks for you help

 

[OFFROADSWAPMEET]

Heat tape will keep the dirt out.