What do fuel baffles primarily help manage in aircraft fuel tanks?

Fuel baffles play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and movement of fuel within aircraft fuel tanks. Their primary function is to minimize the sloshing effect of fuel during maneuvers, such as turbulence, climbing, or descending. By doing so, baffles help to ensure that the fuel pressure remains consistent and that the fuel is evenly distributed, which is essential for optimal engine performance.

When an aircraft is in motion, without proper baffles, fuel can shift dramatically from one side of the tank to the other, potentially leading to inconsistent refueling, fuel starvation, or improper fuel feed to the engine. Baffles help to control this movement, allowing the fuel to remain in a more stable state, which is vital for the overall safety and efficiency of the aircraft.

In contrast, temperature levels, pressure differences, and fuel type and quality are important aspects of fuel management, but they are not the primary focus of what baffles control. Baffles specifically address the challenges associated with fuel movement and stability in varying flight conditions.