What is the primary function of a baffle plate in a fuel tank?

The primary function of a baffle plate in a fuel tank is to resist fuel surging within the tank. Baffles are typically installed to control the movement of fuel during changes in aircraft attitude, such as during takeoff, landing, or maneuvers. When the aircraft experiences acceleration or deceleration, fuel can slosh back and forth, which can lead to instability in fuel delivery to the engines. By incorporating baffle plates, the tank can minimize this movement, ensuring a more consistent flow of fuel to the fuel pumps and reducing the risk of fuel starvation during critical phases of flight.

While measuring fuel levels, filtering impurities, and stabilizing fuel temperature are important aspects of fuel system design, they are not the primary function of baffle plates. Instead, measurement devices and filters address those separate needs. Additionally, fuel temperature management is typically achieved through insulation or heating systems rather than baffles. Hence, baffles are specifically engineered to combat fuel surging, ensuring a reliable fuel supply under varying operational conditions.