1. Which pump for each fuel type
The fundamental rule is: viscosity defines pump type. Light fuels (low viscosity) use centrifugal; heavy fuels (high viscosity) use gear.
| Fuel | Viscosity | Recommended pump |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline, ethanol | <1 cP | FBCN (centrifugal) |
| Kerosene, light diesel | 1-5 cP | FBCN or FBE |
| Heavy diesel, marine oil | 5-50 cP | FBE (gear) |
| Heavy fuel oil, bunker | 50-10,000+ cP | FBE (gear) with heating |
2. Classified areas and safety
Fuel transfer installations are typically classified areas (Zone 1 or Zone 2) per ABNT NBR IEC 60079. This requires explosion-proof motor (Ex d or Ex e), intrinsically safe instrumentation and adequate grounding. FB Bombas supplies motor-pump assemblies with Ex motor already sized and certified.