|
|
Fuel
Systems
Equipment Standards
FEDERAL LAW
183.520 - Fuel tank vent systems
(b) Each vent must
(1) Have a flame arrestor that can
be cleaned unless the vent is itself is a flame arrestor;
and
(2) Not allow a fuel overflow at the
rate of up to two gallons per minute to enter the
boat.
|
Fuel tank vent flame arrestors must be able
to be cleaned so they will not adversely restrict the breathing
of a fuel tank. Flying particles, debris and salts from sea
spray can attach to flame arrestor elements. There must be
some means to free the arrestor from this contamination. Access
to the arrestor may be from outside or inside the boat as
long as it can be accomplished in a normal servicing manner.
Removal of the vent fitting is also acceptable.
It is possible that a fuel tank vent system
itself may perform the function of a flame arrestor. The diameter
and length of the vent tubing and its routing are considerations
in designing a fuel tank vent system that is itself a flame
arrestor. There are no recommendations of proper diameters
and lengths at this time. The burden of proof as to whether
or not a fuel tank vent system performs is the boat manufacturer’s.
The fuel tank vent outlet fitting must be located
so that overflowing fuel coming out of the vent at a rate
of up to 2 gallons per minute will not enter the boat. This
requirement may involve deck design, cockpit coaming design,
air vent location, hawsehole design for underdeck cleating
of lines and any other opening where fuel would overflow into
the boat.
Deck joints in riveted metal decks, or wooden
decks, could provide a path for fuel to flow to the boats
interior unless they are caulked to resist such fuel leakage.
TO COMPLY WITH THE LAW
- If the vent has a flame arrestor, can
it be cleaned?
- Does the fuel tank vent system prevent
overflow of up to 2 gallons per minute from getting
into the boat?
|
Previous |
Next
|
|
