Katerina Swanson
In-tank electric fuel pumps are the most common type used today, but are they safe? After all, there are over 5,000 fires at gas stations each year. While gasoline fumes are highly flammable and toxic, the fuel tank itself is not at risk of exploding because petrol will not combust without a certain minimum quantity of oxygen, which is not present in the fuel pump. However, fuel pumps don't last forever and can be damaged by premature wear and tear if they have to work harder to extract fuel when levels are low.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Risk of fire | There is a risk of fire at gas stations, with 5,000+ fires occurring each year |
| Risk of explosion | There is not enough oxygen inside fuel tanks for an explosion to occur, but fumes can ignite and increase the chance of human injury |
| Flammability | Gasoline fumes are highly flammable |
| Toxicity | Gasoline is highly toxic due to the density of hydrocarbons |
| Safety precautions | Do not smoke or use matches, lighters, or other ignition sources near gas; only fuel in well-ventilated areas |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel pumps are safe from explosions due to a lack of oxygen
Fuel pumps are generally considered safe from explosions due to several factors, primarily the lack of oxygen inside fuel tanks. While gasoline fumes are highly flammable and toxic, the concentration of vapors inside a fuel tank is typically too high to allow for an explosion. Gasoline has a tendency to evaporate, causing its vapors to fill any empty space in the tank, displacing oxygen and preventing an explosive mixture.
The upper and lower explosive limits of gasoline concentration for combustion are 7.6% and 1.4%, respectively. In reality, it is nearly impossible to achieve a high enough concentration of oxygen within the tank to cause an explosion under normal conditions. Even if the tank is emptied and left open, the concentration of vapors will remain too high to ignite.
However, it is important to note that the risk of fire or explosion exists outside the fuel tank. Gasoline vapors can travel and accumulate in enclosed spaces, creating a potential ignition hazard. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions when performing maintenance or repairs on a fuel tank, regardless of the type of pump used.
Additionally, static electricity generated during fueling can also spark a fire. The Petroleum Equipment Institute reported over 170 static-related fires at gas stations in a decade, with approximately half of the cases involving drivers returning to their vehicles with the gas pump still active. It is advised to avoid entering the vehicle during fueling and to always place the container on the ground instead of inside the trunk or truck bed to minimize static electricity buildup.
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Fumes are flammable and toxic
Fumes from gasoline are flammable and toxic. Gasoline produces vapour at a very low temperature, -40° Fahrenheit, which is known as its flashpoint. It also has a high vapour density, meaning it produces a lot of vapour compared to other combustible liquids. This vapour is heavier than the air around it, so if left in an unventilated area, the vapour can collect in low places and cause a fire hazard. A vapour cloud igniting and travelling back to the source is known as a flashback, and this can travel hundreds of feet.
The toxicity of gasoline fumes is due to the density of hydrocarbons within the structure of gasoline. This means that inhaling gasoline fumes can be dangerous to human health. It is important to avoid smoking, using matches, lighters, or any other ignition sources near gas pumps. It is also important to remember that gas vapours can travel far from gas containers in enclosed spaces, so only refuelling in well-ventilated areas is recommended.
There are safety measures in place at fuel stations to prevent accidents and protect individuals. For example, the fuel nozzle has components to prevent the escape of liquid and vapour gasoline, with valves and overfill detectors. Most vehicles in the United States are also outfitted with an Onboard Refuelling Vapour Recovery (ORVR) system, which prevents gasoline vapours from escaping during refuelling and recirculates them into the engine as fuel.
Despite these safety measures, it is important for individuals to exercise caution when refuelling. It is recommended to never top off your vehicle during refuelling, as this can cause a safety hazard and damage your vehicle's vapour recovery systems. Additionally, if you ever find yourself in a situation where you smell gasoline fumes, do not pull the nozzle out of your gas tank. While there may not be enough oxygen inside your tank for an explosion, removing the nozzle can ignite the fumes and increase the chance of human injury.
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Safety tips: no smoking or ignition sources
While there is no risk of fire or explosion inside your fuel tank due to the absence of oxygen, it is important to take safety precautions when fuelling at the pump. Over 5,000 fires occur at gas stations each year, and gasoline fumes are highly flammable and toxic. Here are some safety tips to follow to avoid ignition:
Do not smoke when fuelling your vehicle or when near gas containers or fuel pumps. This includes refraining from using matches, lighters, or any other ignition sources. Gas vapors can travel far from gas containers in enclosed spaces, so it is important to avoid any potential sources of ignition.
Always fuel your vehicle in well-ventilated areas. Avoid closed or enclosed spaces as gasoline fumes can accumulate and increase the risk of ignition. Ensure the area is open and airy to dissipate the fumes.
Never leave your vehicle unattended while fuelling. If you need to step away, stop the fueling process and move your vehicle away from the pump area before doing so. This helps reduce the risk of accidents or spills that could potentially lead to ignition.
In the event of a spill, follow proper cleanup procedures. Do not attempt to ignite or burn off spilled gasoline, as this can be extremely dangerous. Use absorbent materials, such as cat litter or sand, to soak up the spill and dispose of it safely. Do not use flammable liquids or solvents for cleanup as they can increase the risk of fire or explosion.
Always follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the gas station and your vehicle's manufacturer. These instructions are in place for your safety and can help you avoid potential hazards when fuelling your vehicle. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure a safe fueling experience.
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No pulling out the nozzle
While it may be your first instinct to pull the nozzle out of your gas tank, it is important that you do not do this. Gasoline fumes are highly flammable, and pulling out the nozzle will ignite the fumes, significantly increasing the risk of human injury.
Auto-shut-off nozzles are designed to latch into your vehicle's fuel fill pipe, allowing gasoline or diesel to flow freely until an automatic vacuum sensor detects that the tank is full and shuts off the nozzle. Before starting, remove the nozzle from the pump and insert it fully into the fill pipe, jiggling it slightly to ensure it is properly aligned and pushed all the way in. Once inserted, the nozzle's latch should engage, securing it in place. If it does not latch properly, re-insert it and try again.
If the nozzle is latched in correctly, squeeze the main trigger lever to begin the flow of fuel. The nozzle will automatically stop when the tank is full. As the tank fills, gasoline will rise in the fill pipe until it makes contact with the nozzle's vacuum sensor tip, triggering the automatic shut-off mechanism to stop the flow and prevent overflow.
On rare occasions, an auto-stop nozzle may fail to shut off. If this happens, immediately let go of the trigger lever and contact the station attendant, who will be able to reset or replace the nozzle.
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Wear and tear: fuel pumps don't last forever
Fuel pumps are designed to be durable and long-lasting. However, they are not immune to wear and tear. Several factors can lead to their malfunction or complete failure.
One of the main causes of wear and tear on fuel pumps is contaminated fuel. Dirt, debris, or water in the fuel can damage the pump over time. These contaminants can increase friction, leading to premature wear of the pump components. Additionally, running a vehicle on low fuel can cause the pump to overwork, as it has to work harder to extract fuel from the bottom of the tank. This can lead to premature wear and tear and even cause the pump to overheat and fail.
Using low-quality gasoline can also shorten the life of a fuel pump. It is important to use good-quality gasoline with the correct octane rating for your vehicle. Keeping your fuel tank full can help prevent condensation from forming, which can lead to water contamination and corrosion. Using a fuel stabilizer can also help prevent corrosion and keep the gasoline fresh.
Regular inspections and maintenance checks can help identify and resolve potential issues with your fuel pump. By addressing concerns promptly, you can ensure a longer lifespan and smoother performance from your fuel pump. Early interventions can also prevent broader engine damage and save on potential repair costs.
The average life of a fuel pump is 100,000 miles, but this can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Continuous use over extended periods can lead to decreased efficiency and eventual failure. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the signs of a failing fuel pump and to replace it before it completely breaks down.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, fuel pumps in tanks are generally safe. In-tank electric fuel pumps are the most common type used today. Petrol by itself will not combust, and there is not enough oxygen inside the tank for an explosion to occur.
Gasoline fumes are highly flammable, and because of the density of hydrocarbons within gasoline, it is also highly toxic. Over 5,000 fires occur at gas stations each year.
It is important to remember that gasoline fumes are highly flammable, so do not smoke or use any ignition sources near the pump. Only fuel in well-ventilated areas, as gas vapors can travel far from gas containers in enclosed spaces.
Fuel pumps do not last forever, and when the fuel in the tank starts running low, the pump has to work harder to extract the fuel, which can lead to premature wear and tear. To replace your fuel pump, consult a professional to ensure that the replacement is compatible with the type of fuel used in your vehicle.
