Dumping valve for aircraft fuel tank - with spring loaded release and electric latch for valve held open by weight of fuel

摘要

The aircraft fuel tank (1) is fitted with a large throughput dumping valve (4) at the bottom, with the valve held closed by a spring loaded plunger (13). The spring is tensioned to open the valve, with the weight of the fuel pressing the valve in the open position. A safety latch secures the plunger. The latch is released by electric signals for a rapid release of the fuel. The latch is released either by a solenoid or by a pyrolytic charge, detonated electrically. The solenoid or charge are accessible from the outside of the valve for repair/inspection.