Understanding Conventional Fuel System Components & Their Functions
Although it was once famous in the early 1980s, conventional fuel systems are still used in several modes of transportation, both for four-wheeled and two-wheeled vehicles. One of its main components is the carburetor. So, is it only the carburetor? Of course not. Below are several components along with their functions.
Components of the Carburetor Fuel System
1. Fuel Tank
Every vehicle should have a component called a fuel tank. Its function is none other than to store fuel in the form of gasoline. Usually, each mode of transportation has different tank sizes. It is in this tank that fuel is stored in large quantities to be used gradually while driving.
Generally, fuel tanks are made of thin steel plates with several types commonly found. For example, Mercedes cars use a type of fuel tank made from plastic material. Meanwhile, for steel tanks, the inside is usually coated with anti-corrosion and equipped with several box-shaped partitions.
2. Fuel Lines
The next component of the conventional fuel system is the fuel lines. In several modes of transportation, these fuel lines are divided into three: the main line, return line, and fuel vapor line. The main line functions to deliver fuel from the tank to the fuel pump.
Then, the return line functions to channel gasoline back from the carburetor to the tank. Meanwhile, the fuel vapor line serves to transport HC gas or gasoline vapor from inside the tank. This line is usually in the form of pipes or hoses specially made using fibers, so they are not easily torn or bulging.
3. Fuel Filter
As the name suggests, the fuel filter indeed functions to filter out all dirt in the gasoline flow. As one of the important components in the conventional fuel system, the filter usually has a water sedimenter that is useful for separating water present in the gasoline flow.
You should know that the fuel filter must be replaced periodically. Because later, the dirt that is filtered will accumulate and clog the fuel filter. The safest way to clean it is to go to a workshop. However, if necessary, you can shake the fuel filter and then spray it with compressed air in the opposite direction.
4. Fuel Pump
Considering that the tank is located lower than the carburetor, a device is needed to pump gasoline upwards. One of the components that can help is the fuel pump. The fuel pump works by providing a push to the fuel so that it can rise to the carburetor.
In vehicles with conventional fuel systems, there are usually two types of fuel pumps: mechanical and electric. The mechanical fuel pump operates on the principle that the pump is driven by a camshaft or camshaft with a diaphragm type. Meanwhile, the electric type usually uses a turbine or rotor.
Several components of the gasoline fuel system work together to provide the best performance for the vehicle. In addition to the components mentioned above, there are also other supporting components such as the charcoal canister and carburetor. To ensure that the components work well, you can maintain them regularly.
