The fuel pump is an integral part of every vehicle. It pumps fuel from the tank, which is converted into energy so the car can run. But considering the fuel types, is there a difference between a diesel fuel pump vs gas fuel pump?
As leading suppliers of diesel parts in the USA, we are your trusted company where you can learn the differences and similarities between diesel and gas fuel pumps. By discovering the unique features of these vital car components, you will better understand how gas and diesel engines work.
Source: shutterstock.com/ Photo Contributor:Â Aleksandar Dickov
Diesel Fuel Pump vs Gas Fuel Pump: Similarities
We will start by explaining the similarities between the diesel and gasoline fuel pump types. Generally looking, they serve the same purpose and use the same source for lubrication.
Function
Both diesel and petrol fuel pumps are one of the core parts of the fuel injection system. They are categorized as low-pressure components together with the fuel tank and fuel filter.
The main job of petrol and diesel injection pumps is to use pressure and send the fuel from the fuel dispenser to the engine cylinders. Depending on the number of cylinders the engine has, the fuel is distributed to each one of them individually. The diesel and petrol fuel pumps provide the necessary fuel flow to run consistently.
Lubrication
Fuel pumps, whether they are designed for petrol or diesel engines, are lubricated by the fuel itself. In diesel vehicles, the fuel pump is lubricated by the diesel fuel, while in petrol, the pump is lubricated by the gasoline. Also, some parts of the injection pumps, such as the mechanical governor, might use the engine oil as a lubricator to function properly.Â
Aside from popular belief, both fuel pump types don’t require additional lubrication. We always emphasize there is no proof that lubricant additives can protect or increase the functionality of the entire fuel system, including injection pumps.
Differences Between Diesel Fuel Pumps and Gasoline Pumps
Although their purpose is the same, the diesel and gasoline fuel pumps have different designs. They are adapted to work efficiently, considering the fuel and engine characteristics they use.
Different types of fuel pumps
There are four types of diesel fuel pumps which include:
- Common rail fuel injection pump
- Distributor (Rotary) fuel injection pump
- In-line fuel injection pump
- Distributor injection pump
The common rail and distributor injection pumps are electronically controlled, while the other two types are mechanically driven. So, at Goldfarb and Associates, we offer new and rebuilt fuel pumps from famous brands like Bosch, Delphi, Zexel, Stanadyne, etc.
On the other hand, there are only three types of petrol fuel pumps: mechanically controlled, electrical booster pumps, and high-pressure fuel pumps.
Pressure
One of the most significant differences between diesel injection pumps and petrol is the pressure on which the fuel-injection system runs. Typically, gasoline engines inject fuel with a pressure between 10 and 60 pounds per square inch (PSI). In comparison, diesel fuel injection systems operate between 10,000 and 30,000.
The reason why diesel injector pumps use more pressure is because of the diesel characteristics. Compared to gasoline, diesel fuel is much denser. Thus, it requires higher pressure to vaporize.
Fuel delivery
Another important thing to know when comparing a diesel fuel pump vs gas fuel pump is where the car part takes the fuel. In diesel vehicles, the fuel from the fuel tank is delivered to the combustion chamber.
On the other hand, gasoline injection pumps transfer the fuel to the intake manifold. There, the gasoline is mixed with air to enter the combustion chamber.
Injection timing and duration
The next difference between a diesel fuel pump and a petrol pump we will mention is the timing. Diesel injection pumps must be timed precisely to inject the fuel at a particular moment in the compression stroke. That will ensure efficient combustion and power generation.
As for petrol injection pumps, they deliver the fuel in sync with the engine’s intake stroke. Furthermore, gasoline injectors' duration is shorter than diesel ones.
Durability and materials
The diesel and gas fuel pumps are engineered to be durable. However, their durability depends on various factors, of which the most important are the materials, maintenance, design, and operating conditions.
Comparing the average models of the two fuel pumps, the diesel injection pumps tend to be more durable and robust. They are designed to withstand the high pressures involved in the operation of diesel engines.
However, in our experience, the type, model, and brand of injection pump you will purchase can be a crucial factor in its durability. That’s why we are always dedicated to offering our clients high-quality and original injection pumps.
Can You Use a Diesel Fuel Pump for Gas?
Many of our clients wonder, will a gas fuel pump work for diesel? We advise never to install a diesel injection fuel pump on petrol-operated vehicles and vice versa.
Diesel injection fuel pumps are designed for diesel fuel, which evaporates more slowly because it is thicker in density. On the contrary, gasoline burns faster than diesel and contains less energy by volume. Using a diesel fuel pump for gas can lead to poor performance, and damage to the pump and could pose some safety risks.
Source: shutterstock.com/ Photo Contributor:Â Sharomka
Conclusion
Knowing the similarities and differences between a diesel fuel pump vs gas fuel pump will help you understand how the injection system of your vehicle works. Due to the specific characteristics of the fuels, the automobile industry has come up with unique designs for diesel and petrol injection pumps.
If you need a new or rebuilt diesel injection pump, contact us for the highest-quality parts for best performance. You can order diesel fuel pumps for every vehicle type, from cars to heavy-duty industrial means of transport.
