Getting To Know Your Engine: Fuel Pumps

How Fuel Pumps Work In Semi-Truck Diesel Engines

If you've been following our series on how diesel engines work in semi-trucks, then you've probably been wondering what comes next. If so, then you'll be excited to know that our next article will be on fuel pumps. Fuel pumps are one of the most important components in making sure the diesel engine in your commercial truck is running properly. An injection pump, also known as a diesel pump, is used to fuel a diesel-powered engine.

Keep reading to learn more about the fuel pump in your semi-truck's diesel engine!

What Does A Diesel Fuel Pump Do?

In today's high-speed diesel engines, a fuel transfer pump is normally used to supply fuel to the engine. The fuel injection pump is the lifeblood of every modern diesel engine. Fuel delivered at precise intervals will maintain timing that ensures the engine is running the way it was intended. At the same time, the fuel injection pump also guarantees the right amount of fuel that's needed to achieve desired power. That said, the injection pump works on both the throttle and the ignition system in diesel engines.

What Are The Types Of Diesel Pump?

There are four different kinds of diesel pump designed to accurately provide your engine with gasoline. Here are the four types of diesel engine pump:

1. Common rail fuel injection pump: A common rail fuel injection pump is an electronically controlled diesel fuel supply system that was designed to meet exhaust gas regulations. The system consists of a supply pump, common rail, electronically controlled injectors, sensors that monitor the engine's condition, and a computer that controls all of them. The engine drives the supply pump, which then creates high-pressure fuel. Then, a piece called the common rail moves the fuel to the injectors.

2. Distributor/rotary fuel injection pump: A rotary fuel injection pump is controlled electronically by sensors, an electronic control unit (ECU), and an actuator. Much like the common rail pump, the sensors are designed to detect whether the engine is running properly. If the engine is not running properly, it will send signals to the control unit. The actuator determines how much fuel is injected and is timed according to the signals received from the control unit.

3. In-line fuel injection pump: An in-line fuel injection pump matches the engine's number of fuel pressure mechanisms with cylinders. They is used predominantly in medium to large trucks and construction equipment. A camshaft moves the fuel pressure and injection quantity control mechanisms inside of the pump's body. The elements in that body feed fuel to each of the engine's cylinders.

4. Distributor injection pump: Like the in-line pump, a distributor injection pump is mechanically controlled. However, distributor injection pumps have just one fuel pressure mechanism, whatever number of cylinders the engine has. The distributor allocates pressurized fuel to each cylinder. Components of a distributor injection pump include a governor, a timer, and a feed pump.

What Happens When A Diesel Pump Fails?

When a fuel pump is failing, it will not deliver a steady flow of fuel. FI this happens, it will disrupt the mechanical stroke and overall function of the engine. This can be especially noticeable when you are accelerating, a time when fuel demand is increased within the engine. There are several things to look out for when determining whether your fuel pump has gone bad. These include:

1. Inconsistency or sputtering at high speeds.

2. Loss of power when accelerating, moving up slopes, or while towing.

3. Engine surging while acceleration is not engaged.

4. Engine is not firing.

If you are experiencing any of the issues listed above, you will want to make sure you bring your truck into a certified mechanic who can properly diagnose and solve the issue.

Read More About Heavy-Duty Diesel Engines

Have you been researching diesel engines and the components that help make sure your vehicle runs smoothly? If so, then you have arrived at the perfect place! For those that have been looking up diesel engines, our team of experts have written the following articles. Click on any of the links below to read more about engine parts!

· Getting To Know Your Engine

· Getting To Know Your Engine: Camshafts

· Getting To Know Your Engine: Turbochargers

· Getting To Know Your Engine: Rocker Arms

· Getting To Know Your Engine: Fuel Injectors

· Getting To Know Your Engine: Surge Tanks

· Getting To Know Your Engine: Flywheels

Shop Now For Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine Parts

If you've been hunting for the perfect engine parts for your semi-truck, then look no further. To make sure you have access to the parts you need, we have a full catalogue of components for you to choose from. No matter what parts you are looking for, you won't have any trouble finding them in our massive inventory. Shop now for heavy-duty engine parts!