What Is the Function of the Fuel Filter?

Fuel Filters Can Remove Impurities from Fuel to Protect the Engine

Pollutants can enter fuel in many ways, most commonly during transport, storage, or filling of the tank. The tank itself may produce particles such as rust and paint flakes that fall off the walls and contaminate the fuel. Other contaminants include cigarette ash, dirt, sand, and mineral particles. Some are even organic, such as microbial growth. Condensation in the tank can also cause water to appear in the fuel, which is undesirable, especially when your car uses diesel. Particles in the fuel cause wear and tear on different engine components due to their abrasive nature. In modern direct injection engines, impurities can cause damage or blockages. This is because the clearances in injector nozzles are very small.

In diesel engines, water increases friction. Diesel is used as a lubricant for engine parts. If it contains water, its lubricity decreases, and the engine may overheat. Water in automotive fuel may also be a corrosive agent, causing premature wear of different engine components. Aside from causing wear or blockages, contaminated fuel also affects engine performance. Fuel does not burn effectively, leading to reduced power output. When fuel does not burn completely, emissions also increase. When installed before the fuel pump, fuel filters can also protect the pump from abrasive particles. However, most pumps use simple filters. In this case, fuel filters are typically installed after the pump.

Fuel Filters in Cars Prevent the Following Situations

Engine wear caused by abrasives: If high-precision fuel injectors wear down, they can cause excessive fuel delivery.

Blockage of fuel injectors and carburetor systems: Particles and organic growth can clog these engine components, leading to insufficient fuel in the cylinder.

Reduced engine performance prevented by fuel filters: caused by low fuel combustion efficiency and impurities.

Excessive smoke from the exhaust pipe: This may be caused by incomplete fuel combustion in the engine. High emissions are harmful to the environment. In most countries and regions, they are strictly regulated.

Corrosion prevented by fuel filters: caused by water in the fuel. It wears out the engine and causes damage, resulting in significant financial losses for the owner.

Overheating prevented by fuel filters in diesel: Water can cause the fuel to lose its lubricating properties and increase friction of the engine moving parts. Wax crystallization is a common problem with diesel fuel. Diesel contains a certain amount of wax, which may crystallize at low temperatures. Some fuel filters heat the fuel passing through them to make it more usable and prevent engine starting or performance problems.

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