Fire Resistance of Double Wall Fuel Tanks

• 1 Enhanced Fire Resistance through Structural Design
  The fire resistance of double wall fuel tanks refers to their ability to withstand high temperatures and prevent fuel ignition or leakage during fire incidents, a critical performance attribute shaped by their structural design and material selection. Unlike single wall tanks that offer limited protection against fire, the double wall configuration inherently enhances fire resilience through the synergistic effect of its two concentric layers and the interstitial space between them.

  This dual-layer design creates a thermal buffer zone that significantly delays heat transfer to the fuel-containing inner chamber, providing valuable time for fire response and containment.

  Structural Fire Resilience
• 2 Thermal Barrier & Heat Dissipation
  The outer wall of double wall fuel tanks plays a pivotal role in fire resistance. Typically constructed from high-strength, heat-resistant materials, it acts as a thermal barrier that slows down the transfer of heat to the inner wall holding the fuel. This thermal insulation effect helps maintain the integrity of the inner wall by preventing it from reaching temperatures that could cause deformation or rupture.

  Additionally, the interstitial space between the two walls further aids in heat dissipation, reducing the cumulative thermal stress on the inner layer and delaying the onset of fuel vaporization, which is a key factor in fire propagation.

  Thermal Barrier

  Heat Dissipation

  Stress Reduction

  Vaporization Delay

  Advanced Thermal Management
• 3 Supplementary Fire Protection Features
  Many double wall fuel tanks are also equipped with supplementary fire protection features that augment their inherent resistance. These may include fire-resistant coatings applied to the outer wall, which intumesce when exposed to high temperatures to form a thick, insulating char layer that further impedes heat transfer.

  Some designs also integrate flame arresters or pressure relief valves, which prevent external flames from entering the tank and relieve excess pressure buildup caused by thermal expansion during fires, thereby avoiding catastrophic tank failure.

  Intumescent Coatings

  Flame Arresters

  Pressure Relief Valves

  Insulating Char Layer

  Multi-Layer Protection
• 4 Rigorous Testing & Safety Standards
  The fire resistance of double wall fuel tanks is also validated through rigorous testing to meet industry safety standards, ensuring they can withstand sustained fire exposure for a specified duration without compromising their containment function. This level of protection is particularly valuable in high-risk environments where fuel storage proximity to potential ignition sources increases fire hazards.

  By minimizing the risk of fuel leakage and ignition during fires, double wall fuel tanks significantly enhance operational safety, reduce the scope of fire damage, and mitigate the environmental and financial consequences associated with fuel-related fire incidents.

  Certified Safety Performance