Regan Brown
Fuel tank inspections are not common, but when they are required, it's important to have the right tools. Fuel tanks contain combustible liquids and gases, so the area is considered hazardous and explosive. A borescope can be used to identify contamination and debris inside the tank, such as dust, dirt, sand, and other sediments, which can cause issues with the fuel pump. A borescope can also be used to inspect mechanical parts and valves, and to search for contraband or cracks in the tank. When using a borescope to inspect a fuel tank, it is important to take safety precautions to avoid the risk of sparks or explosions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for inspecting a fuel tank | Confirm the stability and performance of the tank, identify contamination and debris inside the tank, inspect mechanical parts or valves, search for contraband, identify tank cracks |
| Fuel tank inspection applications | Automotive, residential, industrial, aerospace |
| Fuel tank inspection tools | Certified borescopes for explosive environments, hazardous inspection cameras, USB borescopes |
| Fuel tank inspection risks | Sparks, static discharge, fuel explosions |
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What You'll Learn
Identify contamination and debris inside the tank
Fuel tanks, whether gasoline or diesel, hold combustible liquids and gases, making them hazardous inspection areas or explosive environments. Therefore, specialised and certified borescopes are required to inspect the inside of a fuel tank.
A borescope can be used to identify contamination and debris inside a fuel tank. Over time, debris such as dust, dirt, sand, and other sediments can enter the fuel tank. A fuel tank full of dirt and contamination will make it difficult for the fuel pump to push the fuel into the engine. A borescope with 2 meters (6.6 feet) of length is usually sufficient for most car gas tank inspections. This length is long enough to enter the supply path from outside the car and down into the fuel tank.
There are various borescopes available with different features. For example, the VEVOR endoscope camera has triple lenses, including one front camera and two side cameras, providing a wide field of view and sharper images. It has a large 4.5-inch screen that delivers clear images with vibrant colours, and the 180-degree image rotation function adds convenience. The cable is 16.4 feet long and semi-rigid, striking a balance between flexibility and rigidity, allowing easy manoeuvrability in tight spaces. The lens has an 8mm diameter, ensuring access to hard-to-reach areas within the tank.
Before inspecting a fuel tank, it is important to ensure that the necessary equipment is available and that the camera's features, including its recording capabilities and multiple camera angles, are understood. It is also recommended to consult with the in-house Health and Safety department to determine the necessary precautions.
In some cases, it may be necessary to drain the fuel tank before inspection. This can be done by using a knock-out hole punch to create a hole, draining the tank, and then letting it breathe for a few days or weeks before filling it with water, an inert gas, or connecting it to a running car exhaust.
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Confirm the stability and performance of the tank
Confirming the stability and performance of a fuel tank is a crucial aspect of preventative maintenance. Here are some detailed steps to achieve this, particularly when utilising a borescope for inspection:
Identify the Type of Fuel Tank
Firstly, identify the type of fuel tank in your Ford vehicle. Modern fuel tanks are often lined with protective coatings to prevent leakage, while older fuel tanks, especially those made of metal, are more susceptible to breakdown and compromise. Additionally, consider the size of the tank, as this will influence the choice of borescope for inspection.
Prepare the Fuel Tank for Inspection
Before inserting the borescope, ensure that the vehicle is parked on a level surface and that the fuel tank is not overfilled. If there is measurable liquid in the tank, it is essential to treat the area as hazardous, requiring specialised and certified borescopes designed for explosive environments.
Inspect for Physical Contamination and Debris
Utilise the borescope to inspect the inside of the fuel tank for any physical contamination or debris, such as dust, dirt, sand, or other sediments. A fuel tank full of contaminants can hinder the fuel pump's ability to effectively push fuel into the engine during startup.
Identify Clogs in the Fuel Filter
Use the borescope to examine the in-tank fuel filter, particularly in modern fuel tanks with non-serviceable fuel filters. A clogged fuel filter can lead to performance issues, including trouble starting the engine, acceleration problems, engine sputtering, and misfires.
Check for Structural Integrity
Inspect the internal walls and structure of the fuel tank for any signs of damage, cracks, or mechanical issues with valves and components. External cracks are easier to identify, but internal inspections are crucial to assess the overall stability and performance of the tank.
Monitor Fuel Stability
Regularly monitor the fuel quality to prevent ageing fuel degradation issues. Keep the fuel dry, minimise tank headspace to reduce condensation, and avoid contact with catalytic metals like zinc and copper. Use portable test kits to check for microbial activity and water interface levels, which can lead to fungal growth and corrosive by-products.
Perform Fuel Tank Pressure Testing
Pressure testing is essential for identifying potential leaks, faulty components, and overall system health. Qualified mechanics typically perform this test using specialised equipment. It involves pressurising the tank with compressed air and monitoring for leaks or pressure loss. Regular pressure testing can help avoid costly repairs and fuel wastage.
Ensure Compliance with Safety Regulations
When performing inspections and maintenance, adhere to safety guidelines outlined by organisations like OSHA, especially when working in confined spaces or handling hazardous materials. Ensure proper ventilation, confirm air quality with monitors, and follow procedures to safeguard against potential hazards.
By following these comprehensive steps, you can effectively confirm the stability and performance of your Ford fuel tank while utilising a borescope for thorough inspections.
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Inspect the inside walls of synthetically lined tanks
Several modern fuel tanks are lined with protective coatings to prevent leakage. Using a certified borescope for explosive environments allows you to visually inspect the inside walls of synthetically lined tanks. These borescopes are designed for hazardous inspection areas and can be used to inspect the entire lined area of a fuel tank.
Fuel tanks, whether gasoline or diesel, contain combustible liquids and gases, making them hazardous inspection areas. Even if the tank only has residual fuel and fumes, it is still considered a hazardous environment that requires specialised and certified borescopes. Smaller fuel tanks, often found in automobiles, can be inspected with a smaller-diameter borescope (6-8mm) with articulation.
Borescopes with a length of 2 meters (6.6 feet) are typically sufficient for most car gas tank inspections. This length allows for entry into the supply path from outside the car and down into the fuel tank. Most gas tank borescopes provide at least 2-way articulation, and many offer 4-way articulation, allowing for a comprehensive scan of the tank's interior.
Borescope inspections can identify internal issues that may require corrective action or replacement. They can also be used to identify the reasons for clogs in the fuel filter, which can cause performance issues and difficulty starting the engine.
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Identify reasons for clogs with the fuel filter
A fuel filter plays a critical role in keeping the fuel that enters the fuel system clean and free of debris particles that can be harmful over time. As the fuel filter collects dirt and debris, it can become clogged, which can significantly affect your car's functioning. Here are some common reasons for clogs in fuel filters:
Contaminants and Debris
Fuel filters retain contaminants and debris, such as dirt, rust, water, microbial growth, and air. Over time, these particles accumulate and clog the filter, impacting its effectiveness. Regular maintenance and replacement are necessary to prevent clogs and ensure optimal engine performance.
Inconsistent Fuel Quality
The quality of fuel can vary across different regions and countries. Some areas may have poor fuel quality, which can lead to a higher frequency of clogs in the fuel filter. Using lower-quality fuel can accelerate the buildup of contaminants and debris in the filter.
Driving Conditions and Habits
The operating conditions of your vehicle can impact the fuel filter. For example, driving in winter conditions or frequently operating in harsh environments can affect the fuel filter's lifespan. Additionally, your driving habits, such as frequent acceleration, carrying heavy loads, or driving on inclines, can influence the performance and lifespan of the fuel filter.
Age and Mileage of the Vehicle
The age of your vehicle and the mileage accumulated play a role in fuel filter maintenance. Older vehicles may require more frequent fuel filter replacements. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for specific guidelines based on your car's make, model, and year.
Engine Performance Issues
A clogged fuel filter can lead to various engine performance issues. These include engine misfiring, rough idling, decreased engine power, and poor fuel economy. When the fuel filter becomes severely clogged, it restricts the flow of fuel to the engine, resulting in insufficient fuel supply and potential engine stalling.
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Use a specialised and certified borescope
Fuel tanks, whether containing gasoline or diesel fuel, hold combustible liquids and gases, making them hazardous inspection areas or explosive environments. Therefore, specialised and certified borescopes are required to inspect the inside of a fuel tank.
Certified borescopes for explosive environments allow you to visually inspect the entire lined area of a fuel tank. They can help identify reasons for clogs in the fuel filter, which can result in lost performance, trouble starting the engine, acceleration issues, engine sputtering, and engine misfires. A clogged fuel filter can be caused by contamination and debris such as dust, dirt, sand, and other sediments that have entered the fuel tank over time. A specialised borescope will allow you to identify and address these issues.
For automotive fuel tank inspections, a smaller diameter borescope (6-8mm) with articulation is typically used. These borescopes are often Certified Explosion Proof Borescopes with a minimum Class 1 Division 2 borescope rating. They are available in various lengths and diameters to suit your specific needs. The Explosion Proof Camera VIDEOSCOPE-XT, for example, is certified for use in class 1 division 2 hazardous locations and is equipped with full 4-way articulation.
When choosing a specialised and certified borescope, consider the diameter and length that best suit your fuel tank's configuration. Larger tanks may require an inspection camera with a larger diameter to provide greater output and lighting. The P374, for instance, is a Certified Class 0 Inspection camera system designed for pipes with diameters greater than 2 inches. It offers a working length of 200 feet and a 1-inch diameter camera head.
Using a specialised and certified borescope will ensure a safe and effective inspection of your fuel tank, helping you identify and address any issues that may impact the performance and stability of your vehicle.
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Frequently asked questions
A borescope is used to inspect the inside of a fuel tank. For a Ford fuel tank, you will need a borescope with 2 meters (6.6 feet) of length. This should be long enough to enter the supply path from outside the car and down into the fuel tank.
The primary risk with gasoline is sparks, not electricity in general. Therefore, it is recommended to use a certified borescope for explosive environments.
To avoid the risk of sparks, you can flood the tank with CO2 to purge any gas fumes.
A borescope can be used to identify contamination and debris inside the tank, such as dust, dirt, sand, and other sediments. It can also be used to inspect mechanical parts or valves and identify cracks in the tank.
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