Fuel pumps are not all created to be universally compatible with all types of fuel, as they vary in materials and configurations that would correspondingly handle specific compositions. Most vehicles have Standard Fuel Pumps setup to handle gasoline, mostly running at an octane rating of 87 through 94. The compatibility issue arises when some alternative fuels are used such as diesel, ethanol, and biodiesel, among others. For these vary in their chemical make-up, viscosity, and combustion characteristics, the handling is no doubt extended to take a toll on pump performance and its life.
For instance, the viscosity of diesel is higher than that of gasoline, making it thicker and perhaps placing additional burden on a standard gasoline Fuel Pump. Typically, such diesel pumps are manufactured from the very outset with strong materials able to support the additional burden, although those that work on petrol can fail prematurely by exposure to diesel fuel, reducing efficiency up to 20% and increasing the risk of pump motor burnout.
Ethanol blends-most notably E85, which contains 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline-also pose a problem. Since ethanol is more corrosive than gasoline, unless the components of the pump are compatible with ethanol, then corrosion will lead to leaks and thus eventual pump failure. According to studies, ethanol can reduce the life expectancy of a non-compatible Fuel Pump by 30% owing to its penchant to degrade seals, gaskets, and internal pump components. Because ethanol corrodes, vehicle owners who use ethanol-rich fuels in their cars normally go for recommendations made by the manufacturers for pumps made with special ethanol-resistant materials that ensure the pump bears the properties of the fuel without corrosion.
Similarly, biodiesel has its own incompatibility problems. Because it is derived from renewable resources, biodiesel is chemically unlike diesel that is derived from petroleum, though the former can have a higher viscosity and different combustion characteristics. The conventional diesel pumps can handle low-blend biodiesel like B5 (5 % biodiesel and 95 % diesel), but higher blends such as B20 and even pure biodiesel, B100, do require specific pumps. Use of high-blend biodiesel without these modifications will surely result in clogged filters overworked pumps, and lower fuel flow rates.
Construction With the growing interest in fuel flexibility, most of the newer Fuel Pumps manufacturers promote pumps designed for alternative fuels. These pumps feature a variety of materials including stainless steel, high-performance polymers, and enhanced sealants which can support a broader range of fuels. Experts recommend checking the compatibility of fuel with the pump prior to switching over to a different type of fuel, as an incompatible fuel could lead to a 15-30% reduction in pump performance and increase its wear.
Selection of the appropriate Fuel Pump depends on the type of fuel to be handled. Rightly so, any pump used will last long and work efficiently since it has been designed for those properties of fuel. The optimal performance is attained, unwanted repairs are not experienced, and the fuel delivery system works reliably throughout its life.