FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP)Fuel, Induction and LubricationEasy
A mechanic is inspecting the integral fuel tanks of a large transport category aircraft. What is the primary purpose of the surge baffles installed within these tanks?
- ATo increase the total usable fuel capacity of the tank.
- BTo house the fuel quantity probes and boost pumps.
- CTo provide structural support to the wing box during flight.
- DTo prevent fuel sloshing and maintain fuel stability during maneuvers.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. To prevent fuel sloshing and maintain fuel stability during maneuvers.
Surge baffles within aircraft fuel tanks are designed to prevent large-scale movement (sloshing) of fuel, which can affect aircraft stability, cause momentary fuel starvation at the engine, and reduce structural loads on the tank walls.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Baffles reduce the overall volume available for fuel, so they decrease, not increase, usable fuel capacity.
- B. While some probes or pumps might be near baffles, housing them is not the primary purpose of the baffles themselves.
- C. While integral tanks contribute to wing structure, surge baffles themselves are not primarily structural support for the wing box.
Fuel Tank Surge Baffles
Surge baffles are internal structures within aircraft fuel tanks designed to dampen fuel movement and prevent excessive sloshing during flight maneuvers.
- Mitigate dynamic loads on tank structure.
- Help maintain consistent fuel supply to boost pumps.
- Contribute to aircraft stability by reducing center of gravity shifts.
Memory trick: Baffles Block Bouncing Fuel