In fuel systems, what is a primary function of baffles located within fuel tanks?

Baffles within fuel tanks serve an important role in managing the behavior of the fuel, particularly in dynamic situations such as during flight. Their primary function is to prevent surging. Surging can occur when the aircraft experiences sudden changes in direction, altitude, or acceleration, leading to the fuel sloshing around within the tank.

By reducing the movement of the fuel, baffles help maintain a more stable fuel level in the tank, ensuring that fuel remains accessible to the fuel pumps regardless of the aircraft's orientation or motion. This stability is critical for preventing fuel starvation in the engines and ensuring consistent engine performance during flight, especially during maneuvers where fuel movement could affect engine fuel supply.

While baffles can indeed have secondary effects that may contribute to stabilizing fuel distribution or even marginally impact cooling, their main design intention is centered around preventing the fuel from surging, thereby optimizing the aircraft's operational safety and efficiency.