Influence of Fuel Slosh upon the Effectiveness of Nitrogen Inerting for Aircraft Fuel Tanks
Abstract
Tests were conducted to determine the influence of sloshing fuel within an aircraft fuel tank upon the effectiveness of nitrogen inerting. These tests were performed in a closed combustion chamber partially filled with JP-8 fuel. The fuel was severely agitated by a rocking motion of the chamber. The flammability of the tank ullage at various concentrations of air, nitrogen, and fuel vapor was tested by exposure to an electric arc. The sloshing fuel did not alter the maximum concentration of oxygen that could be allowed for inerting of all fuel vapor concentrations. For JP-8 fuel vapor exposed to an electric arc this maximum allowable oxygen concentration was found to be 12% by volume. Slosh did extend the flammable region for oxygen concentrations greater than the maximum allowable for inerting. These conclusions, it is believed, are valid for any mode or level of fuel agitation that may be experienced by aircraft fuel tanks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0721675
Entities
People
- Edwin E. Ott
- Robert A. Lillie
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory