Fluids management components in aerospace fuel systems

Abstract

Fluids management may be defined as the routeing and confinement of fluids, often under extremes of temperature, pressure and working environment. One of the most critical areas of this technology is the supply and transfer of liquids in aerospace fuel systems. Development of fluids management components for aerospace applications is driven by the requirement for total system integrity within the constraints of cost, space, mass, service conditions and material properties. Designers are challenged to produce novel solutions involving 3D simulation and modelling, finite element analysis and rapid prototyping. Simultaneous engineering is now an integral part of the process and designers must be aware of the latest manufacturing techniques and materials, both metallic and non‐metallic. Final design optimization is confirmed by prototype evaluation, followed by rigorous qualification testing. Explores design concepts and introduces some fluids management components in widespread use today. Reviews recent helicopter and non‐metallic material developments and discusses the future of the technology.

Citation

Bates, J.I. and Cave, J.A. (1996), "Fluids management components in aerospace fuel systems", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 68 No. 5, pp. 11-14. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb037646