Wiktor Wise
Choosing an electric fuel pump can be a daunting task, given the endless choices available. The first step is to determine the operating pressure for your setup. For instance, carbureted engines typically operate with pressures from 2 to 9 psi, while modern EFI systems run optimally at 40 to 60 psi. The next step is to consider the design, with common options including diaphragm, vane, G-rotor, and screw pumps. Fuel pump selection is also influenced by factors such as horsepower, brake-specific fuel consumption, fuel type, pressure requirements, filtration, and voltage. It's crucial to match the pump's flow volume with the vehicle's fuel system pressure and ensure the voltage is sufficient to deliver the required fuel volume. Additionally, the size, make, model, and year of manufacture of your vehicle play a role in selecting the right pump. It is also recommended to choose a pump from a trusted brand to ensure quality and warranty.
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What You'll Learn
Consider the engine's maximum horsepower
When choosing an electric fuel pump, it is important to consider the engine's maximum horsepower. This is because the amount of horsepower an engine has will determine how much fuel flow is required to support the engine. As the horsepower increases, so does the volume of fuel required to support that power.
To determine the engine's maximum horsepower, you can either have your vehicle dyno-tested or make a reasonable estimate based on the manufacturer's advertised horsepower and any aftermarket modifications. It is generally recommended to err on the high side when making an estimate to ensure adequate fuel flow.
Once you know the maximum horsepower, you can calculate the fuel requirement (volume) using the formula: Optimal lbs./hr = (Max. HP x BSFC). BSFC, or brake-specific fuel consumption, is a measurement of the amount of fuel consumed per unit of power produced. For a naturally aspirated gasoline engine, the BSFC is typically around 0.4-0.5, while nitrous engines may have a slightly higher BSFC of 0.5-0.6, and forced-induction engines the highest at 0.6-0.75.
After calculating the fuel requirement, you can refer to fuel flow charts provided by pump manufacturers to determine the pump's flow rating at a given pressure and voltage. This will help you choose a pump that can supply enough fuel to meet the horsepower demands of your engine.
Additionally, it is important to consider fuel pressure and its relationship with fuel volume. As fuel pressure increases, the flow rate decreases. Therefore, the pressure requirements of your engine will impact the amount of fuel a pump can deliver. Most naturally aspirated carbureted engines require lower fuel pressure, typically between 4 to 10 psi, while racing applications and EFI setups will require higher base fuel pressure.
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Understand the relationship between fuel pressure and volume
Fuel pressure and volume are key considerations when choosing an electric fuel pump. The relationship between fuel pressure and volume is inversely proportional – as fuel pressure increases, the flow rate or volume decreases.
The voltage of the electric pump creates pressure on the fuel and moves it into the fuel system. Higher voltage at the pump terminals increases motor torque, resulting in a higher rpm and an increased flow volume for a given pressure. For example, at 80 psi, the Aeromotive A-1000 fuel pump will see a 22% increase in volume when voltage is increased from 12 volts to 13.5 volts.
The fuel pump is driven by a signal that changes the power to control the speed of the motor and pressure delivered to the fuel rail during the duty cycle. The duty cycle is the measured period of time it takes for a signal to complete an on-and-off cycle, expressed as a percentage. As engine loads and fuel trims change, the duty cycle increases or decreases.
The pressure of the fuel system is critical to engine performance, assuring that fuel is available on demand. For instance, most naturally aspirated carbureted street engines generally require between 6 and 8 psi, while racing applications and EFI setups will require more base fuel pressure.
It is important to note that the fuel pump should provide the correct volume while maintaining the same pressure. The pressure should not change much during differing engine loads and speeds.
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Evaluate the fuel consumption per unit of power
When it comes to choosing an electric fuel pump, it is important to evaluate the fuel consumption per unit of power. This is a key factor in determining the overall efficiency and performance of your vehicle.
Brake-Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) is a critical metric in this evaluation. BSFC measures the amount of fuel consumed per unit of power produced, typically expressed in pounds per horsepower per hour (lbs/hp/hr). By knowing your vehicle's maximum horsepower, you can calculate the BSFC to understand its fuel consumption requirements. This calculation can be further refined by considering factors such as throttle position, RPM, aspiration type, and power adders.
For example, let's say you have a 400 hp gas engine. With a BSFC of 0.50 lbs/hp/hr and a conversion rate of 6.25 lbs of fuel per gallon, you can calculate the approximate fuel consumption as follows:
50 lbs/hp/hr x 400 hp = 200 lbs/hr
200 lbs/hr / 6.25 lbs/gal = 32 gallons per hour
Additionally, it's worth noting that fuel type plays a significant role in fuel consumption. Different types of fuel have varying BSFC values, which can impact overall consumption. For instance, ethanol engines may consume 30-35% more fuel than gasoline engines, while methanol engines can consume up to 200% more.
Understanding the relationship between fuel consumption and power output is crucial when selecting an electric fuel pump. It ensures that your vehicle's fuel delivery system, including the pump and fuel lines, can adequately support the engine's fuel requirements, ultimately influencing your vehicle's performance and efficiency.
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Compare in-tank and inline pump setups
When choosing an electric fuel pump, one of the design options to consider is whether to use an in-tank or inline-style setup.
In-tank electric fuel pumps are the most common type, located inside the fuel tank to feed fuel from the tank to the engine's intake valve. This placement allows them to draw fuel directly from the tank and feed it to the engine. Being submerged in fuel also helps to keep the pump cool and lubricated, reducing noise and vibration. In-tank pumps are also said to be more efficient and quieter.
On the other hand, inline electric fuel pumps are positioned in the fuel line, outside of the fuel tank, and can be mounted anywhere between the tank and the engine. They are generally easier to access and replace, and they are also relatively easy to install. Inline pumps can provide higher pressure than in-tank pumps and are often marketed for racing and high-performance use. They are also usually less expensive.
Both types of setups have their advantages, and the best choice depends on various factors, including the specific requirements of your vehicle and your personal preferences.
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Choose a pump from a trusted brand
Once you have matched all the electric pump qualities to the needs of your car, it is time to choose a pump from a trusted brand. A strong brand will guarantee quality and the pump will perform as stipulated. Buying your electric fuel pump from a trusted dealer comes with a warranty, which is a form of security to protect you from financial loss in case the pump does not function as expected.
When choosing a trusted brand, it is important to look at the pump's flow chart. As free flow, or even flow at a given pressure is only part of the equation, it is good practice to see how a pump is rated at a given voltage. Most cars will produce about 13.5 volts when running. However, if your alternator does not produce 13.5 volts, or you simply want to plan conservatively, look at the flow ratings of a pump at 12 volts.
It is also important to consider the pump's flow curve across a range of pressure, as this reveals crucial performance characteristics. For example, knowing how much an A1000 flows at 43 PSI gives you vital information about how much flow it produces at what pressure.
Additionally, consider the horsepower rating of the pump. Horsepower ratings can be figured out by finding the flow rating in gallons per hour or liters per hour at a given pressure and voltage. Once the flow is figured out on the flow chart, you can calculate the horsepower.
Finally, it is always a good idea to estimate conservatively when selecting a pump.
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Frequently asked questions
You need to consider the engine's maximum horsepower, the fuel pressure, the fuel type, the system pressure requirements, and the supply voltage.
In-tank pumps benefit from the cooling effects of being inside the tank, whereas inline pumps are easier to replace and usually less expensive.
You can either dyno-test your engine or use the manufacturer's advertised horsepower rating.
As fuel pressure increases, the volume decreases. Therefore, as engine demand goes up, the amount of required fuel pressure will increase, causing the fuel volume to the engine to go down.
Choose a pump from a trusted brand. A strong brand will guarantee quality and performance. Additionally, buying from a trusted dealer will provide you with a warranty.
