Fuel pumps are normally rated in performance parameters that describe the basic properties of a pump and define what role does it have to fill in a fuel system. One of the top specifications is fuel flow rate, which is usually calibrated in liters per hour (LPH). A typical passenger-car fuel pump provides 100 to 150 LPH, whereas high-performance or racing fuel pumps are capable of supplying much greater flow rates, sometimes approaching 255 LPH or higher. Flow rate affects how well fuel is delivered to the engine, especially in performance applications where exact fuel metering is essential for good power delivery under high loads.
Pressure is another important spec, normally in PSI (Pounds per square inch). Typical fuel pumps operate at between 40 and 60 PSI, but for the most high-performance applications you may need a pump that can deliver up to 90 PSI. This ensures that it is delivered in a neat and efficient manner, even in engines with fuel injection systems. This is due to a pump not reaching the needed pressure and there is a possibility of the engine not getting enough fuel which in turn causes misfires or reduction on power. For example, a fuel pump rated for 60 PSI in a turbocharged engine logs lower pressure under load; that reduction can result in poor vehicle performance.
The voltage is additionally made clear in the fuel pump determinations. Nearly all pumps from the factory are 12 volt as this is what almost every car runs. However, the pump performance can be impacted by voltage drops as a result of electrical problems. That means if the voltage droops to, say 10V, the output from the pump could be constricted and therefore lower than normal fuel flow and pressure would result. Correct voltage input is critical to ensure a consistent flow of fuel into the pump.
Other specifications on the fuel pump include the inlet and outlet sizes. These aspects are key to enabling the pump for incorporation into the fuel system. A generic fuel pump inlet would be roughly 8mm in diameter, while the outlet might run from 6mm up to 10mm depending on the application. Mismatched sizes can cause restrictions of fuel flow or create the likelihood of a leak, which will affect overall system performance. Sizing is critical for both fitment and fuel.
The other vital information, as mentioned previously, is the consumption of power in watts or simply amps of the pump. While a traditional fuel pump might only draw 4 to 8 amps, high flowing performance pumps could draw that or even upwards of 10-12 amps. This power demand on the fuel pump ensures that it is capably to provide sufficient flow and pressure whenever needed such as during acceleration or towing applications. A weak pump can starve the engine of fuel, resulting in potential long-term harm to the motor.
Durability and longevity are even larger elements of fuel pump features. The average lifespan of a good pump is 100,000-150,000 miles or thereabouts, but other factors such as fuel quality and driving conditions could mentally expand that part even sooner. On the high end, tainted fuel can slash a pump's life expectancy by 30 percent or greater. This fuel filter replacement is one of the many types of regular maintenance that can help make sure the pump reaches it full operational life.
Find out the more about Fuel Pump and how to choose proper fuel pump for your vehicle? Click on this link Fuel Pump Specifications.