SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REDUCING THE CONCENTRATION OF FUEL VAPOR IN THE ULLAGE OF A FUEL TANK

Abstract: the present disclosure relates generally to a system for removing fuel from a mixture of air and fuel vapor in an ullage space of an aircraft fuel tank. the system includes a compressor for drawing the mixture of air and fuel vapor from the ullage space and directing the mixture of air and fuel vapor through a heat exchanger where the mixture of air and fuel vapor is cooled. the system also includes a turbine configured to be driven by the mixture of air and fuel from the heat exchanger. power from the turbine can be transferred back toward the compressor to assist in driving rotation of the compressor. the system further includes a separator for receiving the mixture of air and fuel vapor from the turbine and separating at least some liquid fuel from the mixture of air and fuel vapor. from the separator, a separated liquid fuel and a mixture of air and fuel vapor with reduced concentration of fuel vapor are returned to the aircraft fuel tank.

Inventor(s): Matthew Darren JONES, Subrata SARKAR

CPC Classification: B64D37/00 (Arrangements in connection with fuel supply for power plant (refuelling during flight ))

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