Aircraft Fuel Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real Airframe Mechanic Certification practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Aircraft Fuel Systems flashcards as text
What type of fuel is used in most modern turbine-powered aircraft operating in the United States?
Answer: Jet-A
Jet-A is the standard turbine fuel used in commercial and general aviation jet aircraft in the US due to its consistent flash point and energy content.
What is the primary purpose of a fuel boost pump in an aircraft fuel system?
Answer: To provide positive fuel pressure and prevent vapor lock
Fuel boost pumps supply positive pressure to the engine-driven fuel pump inlet, preventing vapor lock and ensuring reliable fuel flow especially at high altitudes.
What color dye is used to identify 100LL aviation gasoline (avgas)?
Answer: Blue
100LL (low lead) avgas is dyed blue so it can be visually distinguished from other fuels, preventing misfueling during servicing.
What is the function of a fuel strainer (gascolator) installed in an aircraft fuel system?
Answer: To remove water and debris from fuel before it reaches the engine
A fuel strainer or gascolator filters out water, sediment, and particulate contaminants to protect the carburetor and engine from damage.
What fuel tank venting requirement must be met to prevent structural damage to the tank?
Answer: Vent openings must be protected against ice blockage
FAA regulations require fuel tank vents to be protected against icing so tanks can breathe freely, preventing dangerous pressure differentials that could damage the tank structure.
What does the term 'unusable fuel' mean in the context of an aircraft fuel system?
Answer: Fuel that cannot be safely used in flight due to system design limitations
Unusable fuel is the quantity that cannot be safely delivered to the engine in all normal flight attitudes due to outlet location and tank geometry.
What fuel selector valve position is recommended during takeoff and landing on most aircraft with multiple fuel tanks?
Answer: Both tanks or the fullest tank
Selecting 'Both' or the fullest tank during takeoff and landing ensures maximum fuel availability and minimizes the risk of fuel starvation during these critical flight phases.