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Why does a petrol fuel tank need to be designed with vent holes

2025-05-24 Leave a message

Petrol Fuel Tank Venting System Essentials

Pressure Regulation During Refueling

  • Prevents positive pressure buildup from displaced air
  • Enables smooth fueling by maintaining atmospheric pressure
  • Avoids fuel backflow/splatter (up to 3 psi in 50L tanks without venting)

Pressure Balance During Engine Operation

  • Prevents vacuum formation as fuel is consumed
  • Avoids tank deformation (plastic tanks can deform at 0.5 psi negative pressure)
  • Ensures continuous fuel supply to prevent engine stalling

Thermal Expansion and Contraction

  • Accommodates fuel volume changes (~1.2% per 10°C temperature rise)
  • Prevents overfilling/leaks during expansion
  • Eliminates vacuum risk during cooling

Design Note:

Vents must handle both liquid fuel and vapor phases during rapid temperature changes

Safety: Preventing Explosive Pressures

Risk Venting Solution
Flammable vapor accumulation Vapor dispersion via venting
Pressure buildup in fires Flame arrestors prevent external ignition
Static discharge hazards Properly grounded vent systems

Environmental Protection

  • Modern EVAP Systems capture vapors in charcoal canisters
  • Pressure-relief valves activate at 7-15 kPa (positive) or 1-5 kPa (vacuum)
  • Reduces VOC emissions by up to 95% compared to open vents

Design Considerations

  • Location: Away from heat sources and moving parts
  • Filtration: Prevents contaminants from entering tank
  • Anti-slosh: U-shaped traps prevent fuel loss while allowing airflow

Engineering Tip:

Vent sizing must account for maximum fuel flow rates during both refueling and consumption

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