Aircraft Fuel Pressure Gauges and Pressure Sensors

Fuel pressure gauges are an important instrument for any aircraft, serving to measure and report the amount of fuel that is present within a tank. Such instruments generally consist of two parts, those of which are the indication and detecting unit. The indication element is what is placed in the flight deck alongside other gauges for pilots to monitor, while the detecting or sensory unit is implemented within the fuel tank itself. As the instrument plays an indispensable role in maintaining safe flight operations, it is crucial that pilots have an ample understanding of their functionality, design, and types.

Over time, multiple iterations of the fuel pressure gauge and fuel quantity system have come about, all of which feature different designs and technology to accommodate changing aircraft engine configurations and increased needs. Mechanical indicators include many of the oldest types of indicator system equipment, and they typically come in the form of a float that is placed in the fuel tank. As the float bobs up and down on the surface of the fuel, an attached rod will measure levels and will send information to be displayed on a dial for the pilot. With the electrification of aircraft, electric fuel indicators have become more common. These devices utilize a ratiometer-type indicator system where changes in resistance allow for measurements to be detected by the sensor system before data is conveyed to the pilot. The final major type of metering devices are digital fuel indicators, those of which convert measured signals so that they can be presented on a display system. A digital fuel quantity system will often be devoid of any moving parts, instead using fuel probes.

Alongside garnering measurements of fuel quantity, it is also crucial that pilots ensure that the fuel system is properly directing fuel to the fuel metering device. To do this, aircraft fuel pressure sensing devices are implemented. Bourdon tubes are a common option for light aircraft, and they are direct reading to ensure a simple, yet accurate reading. A diaphragm can also be used, and they expand when pressure is applied to one side of the disc. As the compression causes a pointer to adjust through linkages, they can also provide accurate readings for aircraft fuel pressure. Bellows are similar to diaphragms, featuring multiple diaphragm chambers that are interlinked. The final major type of pressure sensor system includes solid-state sensing devices, and they are useful for modern aircraft as they can safely detect pressures and display them in a digital format.

Alongside such systems and elements, there are various other parts that one should familiarize themselves with, including fuel temperature gauge equipment, manifold pressure gauges, hydraulic pressure gauges, and other gauges that allow for pressure to be set. With any fuel system parts or aircraft engine component, it is crucial that operators carry out regular inspections and maintenance to ensure proper functionality during operations. If any system begins to face issues, it is crucial that they are checked and remedied before attempting another flight to mitigate the change of a hazard.

ASAP NSN Parts is a leading distributor of aviation fuel gauges and pressure sensors, serving as your solution for all types of aviation parts you need for your operations. With over 2 billion items ready for purchase at any time, we encourage you to take your time in exploring our offerings at your leisure. Upon finding the particular parts that you would like to procure, first begin with a quote for your comparisons by submitting an RFQ form as provided on our website. Once received, a dedicated account manager will reach out to you in just 15 minutes or less with a customized solution based on your needs. See how ASAP NSN Parts is evolving the parts purchasing process when you begin sourcing from us!

1. john parkar
2. Posted on March 1, 2022
aircraft components

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