Gasoline Geysering

Gasoline begins producing vapors at temperatures well below freezing. On a balmy summer day, gasoline in a fuel tank setting in the sun can reach temperatures within its boiling range. Gasoline temperatures can be further elevated by engine and exhaust heat. If the fuel tank venting is not sufficient, the vapors produced by these elevated temperatures can build pressure inside the gas tank. If the fuel tank is opened under these conditions, liquid gasoline can suddenly be released from the tank. This violent ejection of gasoline is referred to as “gasoline geysering” and the results can be catastrophic. Gasoline can spray onto the equipment operator, the equipment, and surrounding area. If the gasoline gets ignited, property damage, serious injuries, and death can occur.