What is the capacity of the fuel head tank installed above Generator Room 3?

What is the capacity of the fuel head tank installed above Generator Room 3?

• A. 800 gallons
• B. 2,000 gallons
• C. 1,200 gallons
• D. 1,000 gallons

Answer: (C)

Fuel head tanks provide a guaranteed fuel supply to a generator by gravity, so their capacity is set to ensure reliable operation for the intended run time while maintaining a stable feed pressure. The tank above Generator Room 3 is designed to hold enough fuel to keep the generator supplied during its normal operating period without needing constant refills, and to maintain proper hydrostatic head in the lines even when pumps cycle or loads change. A capacity of 1,200 gallons achieves that balance, giving sufficient reserve and head pressure within the ship’s space and weight constraints. A smaller tank risks running dry or starving the pumps during transient loads, while a much larger one adds weight and space without added benefit for the design duty.

Fuel head tanks provide a guaranteed fuel supply to a generator by gravity, so their capacity is set to ensure reliable operation for the intended run time while maintaining a stable feed pressure. The tank above Generator Room 3 is designed to hold enough fuel to keep the generator supplied during its normal operating period without needing constant refills, and to maintain proper hydrostatic head in the lines even when pumps cycle or loads change. A capacity of 1,200 gallons achieves that balance, giving sufficient reserve and head pressure within the ship’s space and weight constraints. A smaller tank risks running dry or starving the pumps during transient loads, while a much larger one adds weight and space without added benefit for the design duty.