Uncontrolled electric fuel pumps, as used in many English cars
   during the
   70's, were a real danger. After losing a friend in a car fire,
   exacerbated by
   the electric pump feeding the fire, I developed an impact switch to
   cut off
   the pump in the event of a high G impact. The introduction of engine
   computer
   controlled pumps solved the problem. Of course mechanical fuel pumps
   do not
   have this problem. Backup electric pumps in aircraft are a worry
   when the
   cowl hits the ground. Experience. There is a lot to do on the way down.

   Colin Smith

Colin,
There are several cars that employ impact cut-off switches. Most are
configured to turn off fuel in a rear end impact. I believe this is to
prevent fire caused by in-tank pumps in the event of a fuel tank
rupture.Several Ford Mustangs have such a switch. They are sensitive
enough that even a bump that won't mar the rubber bumper will shut them
off. The reset is in the trunk!
Bill Jepson


The Rotary Engine NewsLetter. Powered by Linux.
ACRE NL web site. http://www.rotaryeng.net
Copyright 1998-2006 All world wide rights reserved.