What are the two basic fuel systems found in cars?

Vehicles typically utilize two fundamental fuel systems: low pressure and high pressure. The low-pressure fuel system is responsible for drawing fuel from the tank and delivering it to the engine at a manageable pressure. This system operates under less stress and is essential for the general flow of fuel.

The high-pressure fuel system comes into play in modern engines, especially those utilizing fuel injection technology. It elevates the fuel pressure significantly to ensure that the fuel is atomized properly and mixed with air for efficient combustion. This pressure is crucial for optimizing engine performance and emissions.

Understanding these two fuel systems is vital for fire investigators because they can influence the combustion characteristics and behavior of a vehicle during a fire or explosion. Being familiar with how these systems function aids in determining fire origins and causes during investigations.