FAA Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA)Fuel, Cabin and Ice Control SystemsHard
A technician inspecting a fuel tank vent system notes a fine wire mesh screen installed within the vent line near the tank vent outlet. What is the purpose of this component?
- APrevent an external flame from propagating into the fuel tank through the vent
- BReduce fuel sloshing noise during turbulence
- CFilter debris from entering the fuel tank during refueling
- DEqualize pressure between adjacent fuel tanks
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Prevent an external flame from propagating into the fuel tank through the vent
A flame arrestor is a fine mesh screen placed in fuel tank vent lines to absorb heat and quench flame propagation, preventing an external fire from igniting fuel vapors inside the tank through the vent opening.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Sloshing noise reduction is unrelated to the mesh screen's purpose.
- C. Refueling debris filtering is handled by fuel filters and fuel truck filtration, not vent mesh.
- D. Pressure equalization between tanks is a function of interconnecting vent lines, not the mesh itself.
Fuel Tank Vent Flame Arrestor
A fine wire mesh screen installed in a fuel tank vent line that quenches heat and prevents external flame from propagating into the tank.
- Located at or near the vent outlet
- Absorbs heat to quench flame front
- Prevents fuel tank explosion from external fire sources
Memory trick: The mesh is a fire net, catching flames before they reach the tank.