20.01 When is high fuel temperature a problem?

High temperatures for generator fuel occur because the engine returns 65-95% of the withdrawn fuel back to the day tank. This return fuel flow is at a temperature that is well over 100 degrees F, without cooling measures, and this can cause the temperature in the tank to rise to dangerous levels. The engines often require relatively cool fuel, usually less than 110 degrees F, as a means of cooling certain engine components. And heated fuel can become a safety concern if it is heated above its flash point temperature.