Sylvie Willis
Fuel tanks are containers for flammable fluids, such as gasoline or diesel fuel. They are typically made of metal or plastic and can be found in vehicles such as cars, aircraft, motorcycles, boats, and tractors. The size, structure, and material of a fuel tank depend on its application and the type of fuel it will store. In aircraft, fuel tanks can be internal or external, with some located in the wings, belly, or tail of the plane. Safety is a critical aspect of fuel tank design, especially in aircraft, where fuel tank explosions have been implicated in aviation disasters. To prevent fuel tank failures, inspections and maintenance are crucial, along with the implementation of safety measures such as double-walled tanks and leak detection systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types of fuel tanks | Internal, External, Integral, Rigid Removable, Bladder/Bag/Fuel Cells, Drop/External/Wing/Pylon/Belly, Conformal ("Fast Packs") |
| Materials used | Metal, HDPE Plastic, Rubber, Magnesium |
| Factors determining size, structure, and material | Application, weight allowed, space available, travel distance within refuelling cycle |
| Safety features | Double-walled tanks, diked areas, leak detectors, barriers, curbing, pipe bollards, alarms, inspections, documentation, minimum separation distance, removal and disposal of water |
| Use cases | Aircraft, cars, trucks, construction vehicles, lawn mowing equipment, power tools |
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What You'll Learn
Aircraft fuel tanks can be internal or external
Aircraft fuel tanks are a crucial component of an aircraft's fuel system. These tanks can be classified as either internal or external. Internal fuel tanks, also known as integral tanks, are areas within the aircraft's structure that have been sealed to store fuel. The "wet wing" design, commonly employed in larger aircraft, is an example of an internal fuel tank system. These tanks are integrated into the aircraft's structure and cannot be removed for service or inspection. However, inspection panels are provided to facilitate internal maintenance and repairs. Most large transport aircraft utilize internal tanks to store fuel in the wings, fuselage, and empennage.
On the other hand, external fuel tanks, also referred to as drop tanks, wing tanks, or belly tanks, are auxiliary tanks mounted outside the aircraft. These external tanks are commonly used on modern military aircraft and, less frequently, on civilian aircraft. Drop tanks were designed to be jettisoned when empty or during combat or emergencies to reduce drag, weight, and enhance manoeuvrability. External tanks can also be retained in combat and only dropped in emergencies, providing additional fuel capacity.
The use of external tanks has been associated with aviation disasters, such as the TWA Flight 800 explosion and crash, attributed to an explosive fuel/air mixture in one of the aircraft's fuel tanks. To mitigate the risk of fuel tank explosions, some aircraft, like the Boeing 737, employ systems that shut off fuel pumps when fuel output pressure is low to prevent overheating, and enrich nitrogen levels in the tank to prevent ignition.
Another type of internal fuel tank is the bladder tank, bag tank, or fuel cell, which consists of reinforced rubberized bags installed within the aircraft's structure. These bladder tanks are commonly used in high-performance light aircraft, helicopters, and some smaller turboprop aircraft. They are rolled up and installed through the fuel filler neck or access panel, secured by fasteners or cords.
Aircraft fuel tanks, whether internal or external, play a critical role in an aircraft's fuel system, ensuring the storage and supply of fuel during flight operations.
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External tanks are commonplace on military aircraft
Fuel tanks are a crucial component of aircraft fuel systems. Aircraft fuel tanks can be classified as either internal or external, and further categorised by their construction or intended use. External tanks, also known as drop tanks, wing tanks, pylon tanks, or belly tanks, are auxiliary fuel tanks that are externally mounted on aircraft.
External tanks are commonly used on modern military aircraft and, occasionally, on civilian aircraft. These tanks are designed to be jettisoned when empty or during combat or emergencies to reduce drag, weight, and increase manoeuvrability and range. The use of external tanks may impose a drag penalty, reducing roll rates for air manoeuvres. Additionally, they reduce the number of external hardpoints available for weapons and increase the aircraft's radar signature.
The primary advantage of external tanks is their ability to provide additional fuel capacity, allowing aircraft to extend their range or endurance. This was particularly advantageous during wartime metal shortages that limited the options for extending the range of fighter craft. For example, during World War II, the Luftwaffe utilised external fuel tanks with a capacity of 300 litres.
Modern external tanks may be retained during combat and are designed to be dropped only in emergencies. These tanks are typically not built for the demands of supersonic flight. Aircraft designers and manufacturers must carefully consider the trade-offs between the benefits of increased fuel capacity and the drawbacks of external tanks' impact on aircraft performance and manoeuvrability.
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Fuel tanks can be made from plastic or metal
Fuel tanks are used to store flammable fluids, such as gasoline or diesel fuel. They can be made from either plastic or metal, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic fuel tanks are more affordable than metal tanks as plastic is a cheaper material and is easier to produce. They are also lightweight, flexible, and recyclable. However, plastic tanks are more prone to damage from external factors such as UV exposure, extreme temperatures, and harsh weather conditions. Plastic is also a softer material, so it may not be as safe as metal in the event of a fire, as it will melt and cause fuel to leak out.
Metal fuel tanks, on the other hand, are incredibly strong and durable. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and external damage, including high temperatures, making them more resistant to fire and explosions. Metal tanks have a longer lifespan and are therefore more cost-effective in the long run. However, they are generally more difficult to recycle and can have a larger carbon footprint. Metal tanks are also susceptible to corrosion and rust if not properly maintained.
The choice between a plastic or metal fuel tank depends on the specific needs and budget of the user, as well as any applicable regulations. For example, some areas prohibit the use of plastic tanks for certain types of fuel, such as diesel. Additionally, the size, structure, and material of a fuel tank are determined by its application and the type of fuel being stored.
In terms of where the fuel tanks are located on a tank, this can vary depending on the type of vehicle or structure. For example, in aircraft, fuel tanks can be internal or external, and may be located in the wings, belly, or tail of the plane. In vehicles, fuel tanks are typically located in the undercarriage or engine compartment.
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Bladder tanks are reinforced rubberised bags
Bladder tanks, also known as fuel cells, are reinforced rubberised bags installed in a section of aircraft structure designed to accommodate the weight of the fuel. Bladder tanks are made from a variety of materials, including LLDPE, PVC, TPU, and Nitrile rubber panels/sheets, depending on the chemical compatibility of their contents. They are constructed by welding these panels/sheets together to form a sleeve, which is then closed at both ends to create the bladder.
Bladder tanks are often used in aircraft, with many high-performance light aircraft, helicopters, and smaller turboprop aircraft utilising them. They are also used in the military, mining, industrial, and aviation fields, as well as in agriculture. In the military, they are useful for rapidly deploying water and fuel in remote locations. In agriculture, they are used for storing water, rainwater, liquid fertiliser, and slurries, as well as for storing agricultural effluents. Bladder tanks range in capacity from 500 litres to 1 million litres.
The installation of bladder tanks is straightforward and quick. They are placed on a level surface, free of sharp objects that could damage them. A layer of sand or a special ground sheet is often used to minimise surface irregularities. When used for storing fuels or other hazardous chemicals, bladder tanks are usually placed within a berm with a liner for secondary containment to prevent adverse environmental impacts in the event of a leak or failure.
Bladder tanks are a versatile and innovative invention, offering a lightweight, easy-to-transport, and cost-effective solution for liquid storage in a variety of applications.
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Above-ground tanks are convenient but susceptible to fire and theft
Above-ground fuel tanks are highly convenient for businesses that require frequent fuelling of vehicles, construction equipment, lawn mowing equipment, and power tools. They are also useful for businesses that need to refuel company vehicles. However, above-ground fuel tanks can also present significant risks, including fire, explosion, pollution, and theft.
To mitigate these risks, it is essential to adhere to safety requirements and regulations. For instance, double-walled tanks are preferable to single-wall tanks as they offer better protection against leaks. Single-wall tanks are required to be placed in a diked area, typically made of concrete, that can retain fuel and any potential leaks. This containment area should be regularly inspected, at least once a month, to identify and address issues such as cracks, punctures, and leaks.
Additionally, barriers, such as piping, wood framing, concrete pillars, or wheel stops, should be installed around the tanks to protect them and control vehicle placement. It is also crucial to maintain a minimum distance between tanks and any nearby buildings, with a recommended separation of at least 25 feet. Regular inspections and proper maintenance of above-ground fuel tanks are vital to prevent spills and leaks, which can lead to pollution and other environmental hazards.
To ensure safety and compliance, businesses should refer to local fire codes, regulations, and guidelines provided by relevant authorities, such as the Environmental Protection Agency. By following these guidelines and implementing proper safety measures, businesses can reduce the risks associated with above-ground fuel tanks while still benefiting from their convenience.
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Frequently asked questions
Fuel tanks on tanks are typically placed inside the body of the tank, although some tanks have external fuel tanks that can be jettisoned in an emergency.
External fuel tanks are auxiliary tanks that are mounted outside the tank, often on the wings. They can be jettisoned when empty or in an emergency to reduce weight and increase manoeuvrability.
Internal fuel tanks are sealed areas within the tank's structure that store fuel. They are typically made of metal and are not removable for service or inspection.
Bladder tanks, or fuel cells, are reinforced rubber bags used to store fuel. They are rolled up and installed through the fuel filler neck, secured by fasteners or snaps. They are commonly used in helicopters and small aircraft.
