How bad do we need a pressurized fuel tank?

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    Fuel Tank
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of a pressurized fuel tank that maintains fuel at a constant pressure without the need for a pump. Participants debate the feasibility and advantages of such a system, suggesting potential applications in vehicles and small engines. Key points include the elimination of high-pressure fuel pumps, the need for constant pressure regardless of fuel quantity, and concerns about safety and cost implications. The consensus indicates that while the idea has merit, practical challenges and economic factors may limit its viability.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fuel injection systems, particularly direct injection and common rail systems.
  • Knowledge of pressure dynamics in fluid systems, including gas and liquid behavior under pressure.
  • Familiarity with automotive engineering principles, especially regarding fuel delivery and safety standards.
  • Awareness of material properties for high-pressure applications, including tubing and connectors.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and functionality of direct injection systems in modern engines.
  • Explore the safety regulations and standards for pressurized fuel systems in automotive applications.
  • Investigate materials and technologies used in high-pressure fuel lines and tanks.
  • Examine alternative fuel delivery methods, such as gravity feed and their limitations.
USEFUL FOR

Automotive engineers, fuel system designers, safety regulators, and anyone involved in the development of fuel delivery technologies will benefit from this discussion.

  • #31
Isn't a pressurized tank of fuel a Very Bad Thing? Pressuring the fuel using a pump means that, unless the pump is active, you don't have to worry about pressure. But if the tank is pressurized passively, you're sitting on a bomb.
 
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  • #32
We've already discussed that.
 
  • #33
a vented, unpressurized tank is probably more dangerous. vaporization can take place easy from vibration/aggitation. positive pressure could keep the fuel below its vapor pressure
thats why the tanks are slightly pressurized now. it cuts "random emissions" from the car just sitting in the heat

dr
 
  • #34
on the drive home yesterday, the critical design flaw surfaced (impending pun)
the surface area of the interface between fuel and pressure would need to be constant, to get constant output pressure. that would mean the tank would need to be exactly the same shape and size from open to full. The fuel would also have to stay pretty much level all the time. Most fuel tanks are non-uniform in shape, often smaller at the top, and lengthening out at the bottom. this could greatly effect the whole car design as the gas tanks are "designed to fit in the leftover space"

dr
 
  • #35
The design needs to be a of constant geometrical, that's the only way it will work.

The volume can be trimmed off to give it a constant geometry...this will be a major drawback.The flue level in bikes matters significantly...you can actually feel the difference.
 

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