FUEL

TEMPERATURE
SENSOR

~ ARJUN BOSE
179401010
Introduction

 A fuel temperature sensor determines the amount of fuel that

needs to be injected and sends this information to the engine
control unit (ECU) of the car.
 When the fuel is warm, it is less dense and burns readily, the
ECU injects more fuel thus retarding timing and vice versa.
 Usually indicated by a check engine light on the dashboard.
 Even if the warning light is ignored, the car is drivable but with
broken sensors and it might affect fuel economy and might cost
a lot of money in the long run.
History

 Temperature measurement has been around for a long time, dating as far
back as 150 A.D. But, it is estimated that the real science of thermometers
didn’t evolve until the 1500’s. Over the years, different types of
thermometers were developed. Researchers discovered different methods for
measuring temperatures, including thermistors and thermocouples.
 Even though the original thermometers used fluid, such as mercury, to
measure the temperature, there are other options available today. For
example, certain designs of thermistors and thermocouples can use metal
wires to measure the change in voltage which indicates the fluctuation of
temperature.
 The first sealed thermometer was constructed in 1654 by the Grand Duke of
Toscani, Ferdinand II.
Constructional details

Layout

The Fuel Temperature Sensor employs a thermistor to return a variable voltage to the

ECU which is translated into a temperature reading by the ECU.
  A thermistor is a special type of resistor which changes its physical resistance
when exposed to changes in temperature. Their main advantage over snap-action
types is their speed of response to any changes in temperature, accuracy and
repeatability.
 Thermistors are more precise than thermocouples (capable of measuring within
0.05-1.5 degrees Celsius), and they are made of ceramics or polymers.
Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTD) are essentially the metal counterpart of
thermistors, and they are the most precise and expensive type of temperature
sensors.
 Sensing element generally enclosed within metal body
Constructional details

Materials used Components and size

 Essential parts of a fuel temperature sensor :
 Platinum Resistive  Thermocouple
Temperature
 Nickel  Extension wires and cables
Detectors
 Copper (RTD)  Sensing elements ( thermistor, thermostat, RTD)
 Converters
Thermistors  Controllers
 Semiconductor materials
Size(approx.)
 Ceramic materials  Total length – 95-100mm
 Total width – 45-50mm
 Why use Thermistors?
Advantages
• The thermistor has fast response over
narrow temperature range.
• It is small in size.
• Contact and lead resistance problem
not occurred due to large resistance.
• Cost is low.
Disadvantages
• The thermistor need of shielding
power lines.
• The excitation current should be low
to avoid self heating.
• It is not suitable for large temperature
range.
• The resistance temperature
characteristics are non linear.
  As mentioned earlier, fuel temperature sensor
determines the degree of hotness or coldness of fuel
and directs the ECU whether to inject more or less fuel
in the air-fuel mixture.

 The main working principle is based on the concept of

Working conduction of heat. The thermocouple senses the
temperature of the fuel at the junction as a result of
principle which the thermistor reacts with a change in
resistance.

 The voltage sensing circuit determines the resulting

voltage drop across thermistor as the temperature
increases and conveys the electrical signal to the ECU
for further actions.
  Measure degree of hotness or coldness of fuel.
 Help maintain consistent fuel economy.
 Flash check engine light on dashboard in case of any
irregularity.
Functions  ECU is dependant on the sensor to eject optimum
amount of fuel into the air-fuel mixture to help it burn
according to the correct stoichiometric ratio.
 Helps in preventing burning out of sensor components
and surrounding connections due to overheating.
 1. These are used in mechanical engines for measuring the
engine oil temperature and engine bearing temperature.
2. These are used in the heating control systems such as in
building where temperature controls for the switch on or off
the heating or cooling system.
3. These are used in HVAC (heating ventilation and air
conditioning) system for controlling the temperature of
Applications shopping malls building, University building, hospital
building and industrial and commercial buildings.
4. These are frequently used in humidity and air control
conditioning equipment.
5. They are also used for home appliances like kettles, toasters,
washing machines, etc.
Real images

Inside fuel tank

Along pressure lines Along pressure lines
Faults and Remedies

Faults Causes Remedies

1. Poor fuel economy 1. Damaged thermistor/ circuits 1. Replace sensor or recalibrate
2. Overheating 2. Thermocouple malfunctioning 2. Check sensor wiring/replace
3. No check engine light 3. Faulty cables 3. Replace cables & recalibrate
4. Sensor records incorrect 4. Defective or worn out sensor 4. Replace and recalibrate the sensor
temperature readings components
5. Check cables and
5. Temperature readings fluctuate over 5. Thermal aging replace/recalibrate if necessary
time
 Leading Manufacturers

• Bosch
• Hella
• Delphi
• Honeywell
• Sensata
• Stoneridge
• Watlow