Aircraft fuel tank like fuel tanks in automobiles carry fuel. But
unlike automobiles the location of fuel tank in aircraft is critical. Aircraft
fuel tank locations is based on many factors. Firstly, the fuel tanks should be
located at such locations that the centre of gravity of the aircraft remain
within acceptable range (nose heavy is preferable). Secondly, the fuel tanks
should be able to supply the useable fuel to the engines under the most
critical conditions. Thirdly, the fuel tank should be aerodynamically shaped to
reduce drag on the aircraft.
So keeping in view the above points aircraft fuel tanks are located in the following locations on the
aircraft:
1.
Both wings or main plane of the
aircraft
Aircraft fuel tanks are preferably located in wings. The preference
is due to the fact that fuel stored in wings keep the centre of gravity of
aircraft within limits, provide rigidity to the wings, wings are generally
hollow so provide an ideal place for fuel storage and during take off there is
too much stress generated on the wings due to lift so it helps counter the
stress. When fuel are stored in wings it is known as wet wings.
2.
Fuselage or centre tank
Aircraft fuel tanks are also located in the centre wing section
which is known as fuselage or centre tank. Fuselage tanks have more fuel
storage capacity as compared to other locations on aircraft.
3.
Both horizontal stabilizers or tail
plane of the aircraft
Fuel tanks are located in both horizontal stabilizers for
additional fuel storage and also for trimming the aircraft.
WATCH THE FOLLOWING VIDEO TO KNOW ABOUT
AIRCRAFT FUEL TANK LOCATIONS:
Aircraft fuel tank based on locations:
1.
Main tank
Main tank are primary fuel tanks of the
aircraft that supply fuel to the aircraft during normal operation e.g. wing
tanks etc.
2.
Auxiliary tank
Auxiliary tank are secondary fuel tanks
which provide additional fuel to the aircraft in addition to primary fuel tanks
e.g. horizontal stabilizers etc.
3.
Surge tank
Surge tanks are normally located near the wing tips. Surge tanks are designed to contain fuel overflow and prevent fuel spillage especially during fuelling of aircraft. It also play an integral role in fuel tank venting system.
WATCH THE FOLLOWING VIDEO TO KNOW ABOUT
MAIN TANK, AUXILIARY TANK AND SURGE TANK: