Contributions of Sediment and Additives in Gasoline to Clogging of Filters in Automobile Fuel Systems

Factors contributing to clogging of fine porosity filters in automobile fuel systems were investigated in the laboratory. Analyses of deposits from filters of cars operated on commercial gasolines indicated that clogging could be caused by metal corrosion products, dirt, water, additives, and microorganisms. The effects of these substances on clogging were studied using filtration tests under various conditions. Fine sediment dispersed in fuels readily clogged filter elements. Certain surfactant additives in gasoline accelerated filter clogging by promoting suspension of corrosion products with free water present. Some gasoline additives reacted with certain contaminants to form a gelatinous material which caused very rapid filter clogging.