The fuel tank is an essential component of every aircraft. Aircraft fuel tanks come in a wide variety of designs to accommodate a wide variety of aircraft types. The three most popular fuel storage options are integral, bladder, and rigid removable fuel tanks.
According to expert aviation welding technicians, it is highly recommended that you learn about your specific fuel tank and get the know-how about their inspection and maintenance. In this blog post, we will talk about each of these three types and their distinctive qualities. We’ll also look into some of the essential facts about aircraft fuel tanks and some maintenance tips.
Rigid Removable Fuel Tanks
Rigid removable fuel tanks are a common feature of many aircraft, particularly older models. To stop leaks, they are made of materials like stainless steel or aluminum alloy and riveted together. No matter how the fuel tank is made, it needs to be supported by the airframe and secured in place with padded straps to prevent shifting while the aircraft is in flight.
Most frequently, they are located in the wings; some tanks are designed to be a part of the wing's leading edge. In addition to aluminum and stainless steel, other materials other than these are being tested and developed for fuel tanks. For instance, more recent tanks can be constructed using an isophthalic polyester resin composite.
This substance is used to make fuel tanks, and they are seamless and light in weight. The advantage of having a removable tank is that it can be taken out and repaired or replaced if necessary. Fuel tank repairs must be completed following the manufacturing capabilities of a welding company, and welding safety precautions must be strictly followed.
For instance, all fuel vapours from the tank must be removed before welding to avoid an explosion. Typically, this entails washing out the tank with water and detergent and running steam or water through it.
Also Read: Why Is Regular Aircraft Maintenance So Important?
Integral Fuel Tanks
Some aircraft, particularly those in the transport category and high-performance aircraft, have a fuel tank made of a portion of the structure of the wings or fuselage sealed with a fuel-resistant sealant. Integral fuel tanks, which are also the lightest, offer the most space per unit of weight. They are typically positioned in the unused area inside the wings. Integral tanks need baffles to keep the fuel from splashing into the wings when an aircraft maneuvers.
This is accomplished by using baffle check valves, which let fuel flow to the low, inboard sections but stop it from flowing outboard. To perform maintenance, the fuel must be drained before entering the fuel tank, and safety precautions must be followed. Respiratory protection must be worn, and the fuel vapours from the tank must be purified.
Intelligent fuel systems with in-tank boost pumps are frequently found on aircraft with integral fuel tanks. Each tank typically has two or more pumps that deliver fuel to the engine or engines when the voltage is positive. Additionally, fuel is transferred, released, and refuelled for the aircraft using these boost pumps. You need not look anywhere else if you are looking for a variety of fuel tank components and much more.
Bladder Fuel Tanks
Bladder tanks are fuel containers made of reinforced flexible materials. They share many characteristics with rigid tanks but don't need as big of an opening in the aircraft to be installed. The tank can be rolled up, inserted into a small space, and, once there, unfolded to its full size.
Wrinkles in the bladder tanks prevent fuel contaminants from settling into the fuel tank sump, so they must lie flat and wrinkle-free in the bay. Bladder fuel tanks are used on all aircraft sizes. Aside from the regions surrounding installed features like the tank vents, sump drains, filler spouts, and so forth, they are strong, have a long service life, and are seamless.
About Acorn Welding
We are a reputable team of welders and aircraft specialists who are driven by technology and innovation. In addition to component replacement, routine maintenance, and inspections, we provide a wide range of excellent aviation services. We work with vintage aircraft all over the world and strive to be the best aviation experts. Learn more about Acorn Welding and our services and products.
For aircraft parts and expert welding procedures, Contact us now.
