Fuel Storage System
Each fuel tank must be able to withstand, without failure, the loads encountered under likely operating conditions. Each tank must be isolated from personnel compartments and protected from hazards caused by excessive temperature variations. The fuel storage system must provide fuel for at least one-half hour of operation at maximum continuous power or thrust and be capable of jettisoning fuel safely if required for landing. [Figure 1] Fuel jettisoning systems are also referred to as fuel dump systems. [Figure 2]
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| Figure 1. Fuel being jettisoned free of the airframe on a transport category aircraft |
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| Figure 2. The fuel jettison panel on a Boeing 767 |
A fuel dump system is a system installed in most large aircraft that allows the flight crew to jettison fuel to lower the gross weight of the aircraft to its allowable landing weight. Boost pumps in the fuel tanks move the fuel from the tank into a fuel manifold. From the fuel manifold, it flows away from the aircraft through dump chutes near each wingtip. The fuel jettison system must be designed and constructed to be free from fire hazards.
Aircraft fuel tanks must be designed to prevent significant fuel loss through the vent system during fuel transfer operations or under likely operating conditions.
Fuel Storage Refueling System
Each fuel refueling system must be designed to prevent improper refueling, prevent contamination of stored fuel during likely operating conditions, and prevent hazards to the aircraft or personnel during refueling operations.