Aircraft Fuel System Filters and Strainers

For an aircraft engine to function efficiently, smooth operation of the aircraft fuel system is required. To ensure that fuel supplied to the engine is free from debris and contaminants, a number of aircraft fuel system strainers and filters are implemented throughout the tank. In this blog, we will discuss the various methods and components that are implemented within aircraft fuel systems in order to ensure clean fuel for combustion.

Within the aircraft fuel tank, a fuel sump is used to collect debris near the bottom of the tank while the aircraft is not in operation, and this sump can be drained before flights to remove as much debris and contaminants as possible. The fuel sump is also placed right below the fuel tank outlet, forcing fuel to pass through it before exiting the tank and entering the fuel system. These aircraft fuel system filters are specifically designed so that they can catch as much debris as possible, all without inhibiting the flow of fuel for operation. If an aircraft utilizes an in-tank boost pump, a strainer is also placed at the inlet of the boost pump to catch debris. During regular inspections, aircraft fuel system filters are inspected and cleaned to ensure their proper functionality.

After passing through the fuel tank outlet, the next stage of filtering comes before the fuel metering device, if the aircraft utilizes a carburetor or a fuel-injection system. As one of the main aircraft fuel system filters, the strainer features a drain that allows for further sampling and draining before flights, and a sediment collection bowl may be utilized if the aircraft is smaller.

Water is also a substance which must be removed from fuel as it can pose a risk to the engine, and aircraft fuel system strainers are typically located at a low point on the engine firewall. As water is heavier than fuel, it will fall to the bottom, getting trapped within a bowl so that it can be removed later. As contaminates and debris are often too large to pass through this strainer, they too collect in the bowl alongside the water. Before reaching the engines, most aircraft will also implement a main strainer at each engine to allow for further filtering and cleaning of fuel.

To ensure that the aircraft fuel system remains clean, one should always conduct regular inspection and maintenance of all components. Beyond filters and strainers, it is also important to be aware of the gaskets, adhesives, and sealant products that are present within the system, as damaged sealants may lead to contamination and failure of the fuel system. The float switch is also an important component of the fuel system, allowing the pilot to be aware of fuel levels or damages that may occur if an inconsistent fuel rate is witnessed.

When you are in need of aircraft fuel system strainers, filters, and other aviation components, ASAP Purchasing is your sourcing solution. ASAP Purchasing is a leading supplier of aircraft parts, providing customers access to over 2 billion new, used, and obsolete items. Explore our robust catalogues at your leisure, and our team of industry experts are readily available 24/7x365 to help you procure everything you need with ease.

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