Tweet
The big problem with gasoline (and propane) on boats is vapor pressure at normal temperatures and the fact that the vapor is both heavier than air and with the right concentration of oxygen, explosive. Diesel does not have the vapor issue nor is it explosive, more like a smoldering fuel. That's why many diesel owners don't care if their boat interior stinks. It's disgusting but not dangerous.
The heavier than air issue is problematic for boats because our hulls are essentially sealed bowls. Once the vapors are present they will accumulate down low just waiting for an ignition source. Also, the vapor concentration six feet above the bilge where our noses are is much less than in the bilge so often times we can't smell it.
The rarity of reported explosions is due in part to careful design. It's precisely why our starters, alternators, distributors, battery switches, blowers, electric fuel pumps and any electrical device in either the engine or fuel tank spaces are required to be ignition proof. Imagine what would happen if they weren't. YIKES!
The heavier than air issue is problematic for boats because our hulls are essentially sealed bowls. Once the vapors are present they will accumulate down low just waiting for an ignition source. Also, the vapor concentration six feet above the bilge where our noses are is much less than in the bilge so often times we can't smell it.
The rarity of reported explosions is due in part to careful design. It's precisely why our starters, alternators, distributors, battery switches, blowers, electric fuel pumps and any electrical device in either the engine or fuel tank spaces are required to be ignition proof. Imagine what would happen if they weren't. YIKES!
Comment