From: RWolf99@aol.com
Message-ID: <3f.f5062b7.27949178@aol.com>
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001 12:46:32 EST
Subject: Re:  Fuel line (in line?) sensor
To: lancair.list@olsusa.com
Reply-To: lancair.list@olsusa.com
Mime-Version: 1.0

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In a message dated 1/14/1 10:48:13 PM, you wrote:

<<Might be useful to have a warning light on the panel come on when a sensor 
in a wing tank fuel line detects air in the line vs fuel. Do any of you know 
if something like this exists as well as a source for such a device?>>

YES!

Pillar Point Avionics now sells such a gizmo.  (www.ppavionics.com)  These 
are the guys that sell the "Smart Switch" for controlling Facet fuel transfer 
pumps.  Anyways, this new gizmo is a plastic (plexiglass? polycarbonate?  I 
dunno) tube that is pointed on the end like a drill bit.  An infrared light 
shines through the plastic towards the point.  If the point is submerged in 
fuel the light continues on through, but if the point is submerged in air (as 
it were) the principle of Total Internal Reflection causes the light to be 
reflected back.  A photodetector of some kind detects this.

The whole gizmo is tiny and is built into a 1/8 NPT to 1/4 NPT reducer 
fitting.  All you have to do is screw it into a 1/4 NPT tee fitting in your 
fuel line.  It's complete (not a kit) and sells for about $70.

- Rob
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Please send your photos and drawings to marvkaye@olsusa.com.
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