
Anti-siphon valves are used in fuel tanks to prevent fuel from leaking out in the event of a broken line or leak. They are installed in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line, with no part of the line between the valve and the tank below the maximum fuel storage level. This ensures that fuel cannot siphon out of the tank unless there is a solid line filled with gas that is below the fuel level. Anti-siphon valves are designed to reduce fire hazards and prevent oil spills, making them an essential safety feature in fuel tank systems.
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What You'll Learn

Anti-siphon valves prevent fuel from exiting the tank
Anti-siphon valves are designed to prevent fuel from exiting the tank in the event of a broken line or leak. They are installed in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line, with no part of the line between the valve and the tank below the maximum oil storage level. This ensures that fuel cannot siphon out of the tank unless there is a solid line filled with gas that is below the fuel level.
Anti-siphon valves work by utilizing a ball and spring mechanism or a diaphragm and spring mechanism. In the ball and spring mechanism, the fuel pump suction must pull the check ball off its seat by overcoming the spring pressure. In the diaphragm and spring mechanism, the pressure differential created by the operating pump causes sufficient force on the power diaphragm to move the valve diaphragm open and permit flow.
Anti-siphon valves are required by various fire protection codes and are essential for aboveground storage applications. They reduce fire hazards and prevent oil spills by automatically shutting off the oil flow when lines are broken. This prevents fuel from siphoning out of the tank and reduces the risk of fire or explosion.
Additionally, anti-siphon valves can also prevent fuel from flowing back into the tank when the engine is turned off, maintaining positive shut-off. This feature is especially important in applications where the liquid level in the tank is higher than the elevation of the dispenser or product piping, as it prevents fuel from accidentally flowing out of the tank due to gravity.
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They are installed in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line
The anti-siphon valve is installed in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line. This positioning ensures that the valve functions effectively as a positive shut-off device, preventing fuel from accidentally flowing out of the tank due to gravity. It is important that no part of the line between the valve and the tank is below the maximum oil storage level. This installation method is in accordance with fire protection codes and helps to reduce fire hazards by preventing oil spills.
The anti-siphon valve's placement at the highest point in the suction line is strategic. It is designed to prevent fuel from siphoning out of the tank in the event of a broken or open oil suction line. This is particularly crucial when the liquid level in the tank is higher than the elevation of the dispenser or any product piping. By installing the valve at the highest point, the risk of fuel spillage is minimised.
The vertical positioning of the anti-siphon valve also plays a role in maintaining the proper functioning of the valve. By being installed in a vertical orientation, the valve can effectively utilise its internal components, such as the spring-loaded poppet and the dashpot, to control the flow of fuel. This vertical arrangement ensures that the valve can operate smoothly and quietly while still providing the necessary positive shut-off action.
Additionally, the installation position of the anti-siphon valve helps to address potential issues with moisture. While the valve is suitable for outdoor installation, there is a possibility that moisture entrained in the oil might freeze and immobilise the poppet. By installing the valve at the highest point in the suction line, the potential impact of moisture can be mitigated to some extent, reducing the chances of valve immobilisation.
Overall, the installation of the anti-siphon valve in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line is a critical aspect of its design and functionality. This positioning ensures the valve's effectiveness in preventing fuel spills, maintaining smooth operation, and addressing safety concerns related to fire hazards.
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They are required by fire protection codes
Anti-siphon valves are required by various fire protection codes to prevent fuel from accidentally flowing out of a tank and causing a fire or explosion. This is particularly important in the event of a low line break or leak in the pipe.
The anti-siphon valve is installed in the highest point in the suction line, with no part of the line between the valve and the tank below the maximum oil storage level. This ensures that fuel cannot siphon out of the tank unless there is a solid line filled with gas that is below the fuel level.
In the case of a break in the fuel line that is below the suction fitting and the fuel level in the tank, the anti-siphon valve prevents fuel from siphoning out. This is because fuel cannot siphon uphill, and the valve acts as a positive shut-off device that prevents fuel from flowing out of the tank unless specifically desired by the operator.
The inclusion of anti-siphon valves in fire protection codes is essential to reducing fire hazards and preventing oil spills. This is especially relevant in installations where the highest level of oil in storage is above the boiler room floor. By automatically shutting off the oil flow, the valve helps to prevent oil from being siphoned onto the boiler room floor, thus reducing the risk of a fire or explosion.
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Anti-siphon valves are also known as anti-flow-back valves
Anti-siphon valves are installed in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line, with no part of the line between the valve and the tank below the maximum oil storage level. They are designed to be installed in aboveground tank systems, and they are not recommended for marina applications. The valve is positioned in the tank's discharge pipe, downstream from the block valve located just outside the tank shell.
Anti-siphon valves work by using a ball and spring mechanism. The fuel pump suction must pull the check ball off its seat by overcoming the spring pressure. This allows fuel to pass through to the engine. When the engine is turned off, the ball seals again, preventing fuel from flowing back into the tank. This also means that fuel does not need to be pumped through the bulb every time the engine is started.
Anti-siphon valves are important for safety, as they reduce fire hazards and prevent oil spills by automatically shutting off the oil flow when lines are broken. They are required by many fire protection codes and are recommended for all installations where the highest level of oil in storage is above the boiler room floor.
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They are recommended for all aboveground storage applications
Anti-siphon valves are recommended for all aboveground storage applications to prevent fuel from exiting the storage tank in the event of a broken line or leak. They are designed to shut off product flow when lines are broken, preventing fuel spillage and reducing fire hazards. This is especially important for aboveground tanks, where the liquid level in the tank is often higher than the elevation of the dispenser or piping, creating a constant gravitational force that could cause fuel to flow out of the tank.
Anti-siphon valves are installed in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line, ensuring that no part of the line between the valve and the tank is below the maximum oil storage level. This positioning allows the valve to effectively control the flow of fuel and prevent siphoning.
In addition to spill prevention, anti-siphon valves also improve safety by reducing fire hazards. By stopping fuel from flowing out of the tank, the valves help to mitigate the risk of fuel coming into contact with potential ignition sources. This is particularly crucial for aboveground storage applications, where a fuel spill could easily spread and pose a significant fire risk.
Furthermore, anti-siphon valves can also prevent fuel from flowing back into the tank when the engine is turned off. This feature helps maintain fuel system efficiency and ensures that the fuel lines and pump remain primed for the next use.
Overall, the recommendation to use anti-siphon valves in all aboveground storage applications stems from their ability to prevent fuel spills, reduce fire hazards, and maintain fuel system functionality. These valves provide a critical layer of protection and help ensure the safe and efficient operation of fuel storage and delivery systems.
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Frequently asked questions
An anti-siphon valve is a device that prevents fuel from accidentally flowing out of a tank. This is particularly important when the liquid level in the tank is higher than the elevation of the dispenser or any of the product piping.
The anti-siphon valve is installed in a vertical position at the highest point in the suction line. It is designed as a siphon break in case of a line leak below the liquid level. The valve automatically shuts off the oil flow in the event of a broken or open oil suction line.
The anti-siphon valve is located at the tank suction fitting. It is installed outside the tank, at the highest point in the pipe run.
Anti-siphon valves are required by fire protection codes to prevent fuel from exiting the tank in the event of a broken line or leak. This reduces fire hazards and prevents oil spills.










































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