T&T: ABYC and your fuel system

[Douglas Gould]

ABYC, Section H-33 deals with "Diesel Fuel Systems". I
quote the following from the 2006 ABYC standards:

33.5.6 All individual components of the fuel system,
as installed in the boat, shall be capable of
withstanding a 2-= minute exposure to free burning
fuel (N-Heptane), or No. 2 diesel fuel without
leakage, when tested in accordance with Title 33 CFR,
Section 183.590, Fire Test.

The next paragraph deals with the exceptions to that
rule:

1. Portions of fuel distribution systems located
outside the engine compartment if a break at any point
in this system will result in the discharge of no more
than five ounces of fuel in 2-1/2 minutes including
fuel that may drain from the engine. (See H-33.14 for
requirements for fuel distribution and return lines.)

So, there you have it in black and white. Racor's
marine grade Turbine Series filters (the ones with
clear bowls and a metal shield) comply with Section
183.590 Fire Test.

The reason, as I understand it, that the metal shield
allows the filter to pass the fire test is that the
fire test is conducted by applying the heat from the
bottom. That seems logical, as heat rises, and if you
have 2.5 minutes of plastic melting heat out to the
side of your Racor, you have way more trouble than any
surveyor or insurance salesman can possibly stir up.

Douglas Gould
ABYC Standards Accredited