A secondary pump is often installed as a backup system. High pressure and low-pressure application can also be used in most cells. Some elaborate cells use both internal and external pumps. Fuel pumps can be installed in a variety of ways with a fuel cell (internally and externally). The correct number and size of the plumbing connections should be installed at the fuel cell bulk head. Many styles of surge tanks are available for various applications.Īll features of the fuel system should be considered when selecting a fuel cell. Internal and external surge tanks are often used in conjunction with fuel cells to prevent fuel starvation. It is important in endurance racing to extract the maximum amount of fuel from the cell to increase fuel range.

The pickup system should be designed to maintain constant fuel delivery during acceleration, cornering, and braking even during low fuel levels. A discriminating valve is often used on most fuel cells to minimize fuel related fumes inside the car and prevent fuel spillage in the event of a rollover.Īn important part of a fuel cell is the fuel pickup system. These types of fillers require a large fuel cell vent to expedite out going air when fueling. The dry-break makes for a rapid fueling rate during a pit stop. Sanctioning bodies often require a dry-break system for safety. This makes for a solid mounting system and allows the roll cage to protect the fuel cell.įiller options should be carefully considered when selecting a fuel cell. The fuel cell mounting frame needs to be custom built and is often integrated within the roll cage. Many organizations require the cell to be installed in or near the stock location of the OEM fuel container. Sanctioning bodies often dictate the positioning of the cell in the chassis. Consequently positioning of the fuel cell in the vehicle will have a huge impact on the overall weight distribution of the chassis.

A small cell holds five gallons of fuel while a larger cell could hold up to thirty gallons of fuel. Gasoline weighs approximately six pounds per gallon. Once the correct size cell is selected, positioning the cell in the car is the next critical step. Cars that compete in sprint type races will use the smallest cell possible to minimize weight, but carry enough fuel to finish a race. Endurance cars use the biggest cell possible to minimize refueling stops and maximize fuel range. Most sanctioning bodies limit the maximum size of the fuel cell. Sanctioning bodies often require and/or allow the use of fuel cells depending on the class and type of racing.įuel cell size is the first consideration when selecting a cell. Fuel cells are a safety feature for race cars designed to minimize the risk of fire due to a ruptured fuel container.

Fueling Her Fire by Piper Trace