Fuel pumps are an important part of transferring fuel from a gas tank to the engine. There are different types of pumps that are used in vehicles and it all depends on the engine design and what each fuel system requires. Get the general idea about what fuel pump you have in your car here.
Mechanical Fuel Pumps : These are the type of pumps that usually comes in old Carbureted engine vehicles. Mechanical Mechanical pumps work by using a lever that is operated by the camshaft of the engine to move a diaphragm, which can then pull fuel from the tank (via the use of suction) and deliver it to the carburetor. They work at very low pressures, typically 4 to 10 psi and are a perfect fit for carbureted systems but are being obsoleted by the more efficient electric pumps.
Electric fuel pumps — For modern vehicles, which mostly come with fuel injection systems. Fuel injection requires higher pressures, usually between 30 and 60 psi, which are provided by these fuel pumps. Electric pumps, on the other hand are located inside or near the fuel tank and use an electric motor to deliver fuel into the engine. An important advantage is that it ensures constant fuel pressure and in turn, boosting engine performance while preserving fuel economy.
In-Tank Fuel Pumps: Most modern vehicles are equipped with an in-tank fuel pump. With fuel surrounding them, these pumps stay cold during usage, preventing over-heating. Durability and efficacy in in-tank pumps, however, can last 80,000 to 100,000 miles behind the wheel. They are a much more reliable though because they can hold constant fuel pressure. Based on a 2021 automotive study, more than 85% of everywhere new vehicles are equipped with an in-tank pump which indicates the prevalence of these pumps in the auto-industry.
Inline Fuel Pump (External): An external pump, inline just outside of the tank In-Line Pumps are commonly used on performance/highly modified vehicles. With a bolt-off base that provides easy service, these pumps have the ability to create up to 100 psi fuel pressures for power adder applications when more fuel delivery is required by the engine.
Rotary Vane Fuel Pumps: These are manufactured to satisfy the prerequisites of high performance vehicles. Rotary vane pumps: These pumps have a rotor with slides vanes attached to create a constant petrol pressure. These fuel pumps are also used in racing and high-performance applications where the proper amount of fuel needs to be delivered. Rotary vane pumps however can generally produce more power and efficiency especially under extreme conditions though performance gains of up to 10% have been experienced in some high-demand environments.
Steve Jobs once said, "Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower." Such as more efficient, accurate, and innovative versions of electric and rotary vane pumps retrofits.
Know these different types of pumps and it will increase the chance you'll pick the best one to fit your ride's performance needs, whether you're a driver or just another snoopy tech. Visit Fuel Pump to discover more.