How to Select the Material for Fuel Cube Tanks

The selection of materials for fuel cube tanks is of great significance as it directly affects the safety, durability, and performance of the tank. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing materials:

Corrosion Resistance
Fuel, especially when it contains additives or is exposed to certain environmental conditions, can be corrosive. Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its excellent corrosion resistance. It contains chromium, which forms a protective oxide layer on the surface, preventing rust and degradation. For example, 316L stainless steel is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals and is suitable for storing various fuels.

Strength and Durability
The tank needs to withstand the pressure of the fuel and potential external impacts. High - strength aluminum alloys are often used as they offer a good combination of strength and light weight. They can resist deformation and have a long service life. Additionally, carbon - fiber - reinforced polymers (CFRP) are becoming increasingly popular. CFRP has extremely high strength - to - weight ratio, providing excellent durability while reducing the overall weight of the tank.

Compatibility with Fuel
The material should not react with the fuel stored in the tank. Polyethylene is a suitable option for some fuels as it has good chemical compatibility and is resistant to fuel permeation. It helps to prevent fuel leakage and maintains the quality of the fuel.

Cost - effectiveness
While high - performance materials like CFRP offer many advantages, they can be expensive. In some cases, a balance needs to be struck between performance and cost. Mild steel, when properly coated and protected, can be a more cost - effective alternative for certain applications where the corrosion risk is relatively low.