1. Centralized Fuel System:
- In this type of system, all fuel tanks are interconnected through a network of pipes and valves.
- Fuel can be transferred between tanks to balance fuel distribution and maintain proper weight distribution of the aircraft.
- Centralized systems provide increased flexibility in managing fuel loads and reducing the risk of fuel starvation in one engine due to fuel imbalance.
2. Decentralized Fuel System:
- In a decentralized system, each engine has its own dedicated fuel tanks.
- There is no interconnection between the fuel systems of different engines, which means that fuel cannot be transferred between them.
- Decentralized systems are generally used in smaller aircraft with limited fuel capacities.
3. Wet Wing Fuel System:
- A wet wing fuel system is an integral part of the aircraft's wing structure.
- The wing itself serves as a fuel tank, eliminating the need for separate fuel tanks.
- The fuel is contained within sealed compartments or bladders integrated into the wing structure.
- Wet wing systems provide efficient fuel storage, structural strength, and aerodynamic benefits.
4. Dry Wing Fuel System:
- In a dry wing fuel system, separate fuel tanks are installed within the wing structure.
- The fuel tanks are enclosed in a sealed compartment or bladder and are not integral to the wing structure itself.
- Dry wing systems allow for easier maintenance and flexibility in fuel tank design and placement.
5. Gravity Feed Fuel System:
- Gravity feed fuel systems rely on the force of gravity to deliver fuel from the fuel tanks to the engines.
- They are commonly used in small aircraft and do not require additional pumps or pressurized tanks.
- Fuel flow in gravity feed systems is influenced by the aircraft's attitude and fuel tank positioning.
6. Pressure Fuel System:
- Pressure fuel systems use pumps to deliver fuel to the engines.
- These pumps maintain consistent fuel pressure and can overcome restrictions in the fuel lines or system components.
- Pressure fuel systems are essential in high-performance aircraft that require a constant and reliable fuel supply.
7. Fuel Injection Systems:
- Fuel injection systems are advanced fuel delivery systems used in modern aircraft engines.
- They use electronically controlled injectors to spray precisely measured amounts of fuel directly into the engine's combustion chambers.
- Fuel injection systems provide improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and optimized engine performance.
Each of these fuel systems has its own advantages and considerations based on aircraft size, design, performance requirements, and fuel capacity needs. The selection of the appropriate fuel system is a crucial aspect of aircraft design and plays a vital role in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable flight operations.
