Discover how the fuel system in diesel engine acts as its core, significantly impacting performance. An efficient fuel supply in diesel engines must accurately supply, meter, inject, and ionize fuel for optimal output. Fuel can flow through gravity or a pumping system that delivers it to the injection pump via a filter. This pump then sends fuel to the injection system located in the cylinders. The diesel fuel system’s primary function is to deliver a specific amount of volatilized and pressurized fuel from each engine cylinder at precisely the right moment. When this rush of fuel combines with hot compressed air in a diesel engine, combustion occurs. This process differs from gas engines, which rely on an electric spark to ignite combustion. Diesel fuel systems are designed with these distinctions in mind, operating differently than gasoline systems.
Key Components of a Diesel Fuel System
1. Fuel Tank
The fuel tank must hold enough fuel to keep the engine running for an extended period. Additionally, it must protect against exposure to foreign particles. Vents are necessary to allow air to reach and replace the used fuel. Furthermore, the tank requires three openings: one for filling, one for releasing fuel, and one for draining.
2. Fuel Lines
Diesel vehicles utilize three distinct types of fuel lines. Heavyweight fuel lines handle the high pressure between the fuel injection pump and the fuel injectors. Medium-weight fuel lines connect the fuel tank to the injection pump, designed for mild to light fuel pressure. Compact fuel lines work effectively in areas with little to no strain.
3. Fuel Filters
To prevent foreign particles from blocking the fuel system, diesel fuel supplies typically undergo multiple processing stages. Most traditional systems include three progressive filters: a filter screen close to the diesel fuel phase shifter or tank, a main fuel filter, and a secondary filter.
4. Fuel Injection Pump
In high-speed diesel fuel systems, diesel fuel conversion pumps continuously supply fuel to the injector. The main functions of the fuel injection pump often include jerk pumps, which come with a lever for removing air from the system.
5. Fuel Injectors
Fuel pumps are frequently regarded as the most critical part of a diesel fuel system. They ensure equal distribution of commodified, pressurized fuel across the cylinders, resulting in greater capacity, better fuel efficiency, less engine noise, and a smoother ride. Today’s diesel fuel injectors use piezoelectricity—an electric charge that builds up in specific solid materials under significant pressure. These fuel injectors provide exceptional precision and can withstand substantial pressure.
The Advantages of Diesel Engines
In many cases, diesel engines offer a better fuel economy than gasoline engines. However, diesel vehicles must have all their components—fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filters, fuel pumps, and fuel injectors—in optimal working conditions to achieve this efficiency. Al Faraji Oil emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance for these components to ensure efficient fuel supply in diesel engines. Understanding the functions of these components will help you maintain them effectively and optimize the fuel supply in diesel engines.