Fuel tank and component testing

Innovative drive concepts are posing new challenges to fuel tank testing of modern vehicle systems. Increasingly efficient combustion engines, different fuel types and alternative drive concepts such as hybrid and electric cars mean that the requirements facing tank systems are constantly changing. These systems and components have to provide a reliable service throughout their service life. As such, the quality demands facing manufacturers and suppliers are high. To fulfil them easily, TÜV SÜD supports you through the individual development and validation phases with a comprehensive range of services.

What is fuel tank testing?

A thorough evaluation of fuel tanks and components for compliance with established fuel tank testing standards and manufacturers’ specific requirements typically includes a number of different tests and assessments. Testing specific fuel tank components as well as the tank itself can include testing for durability, quality, functionality, ageing, refuelling, and materials testing, as well as fuel tank pressure testing and sled tests. Tests are conducted both in line with the wide-ranging specification sheets from the car manufacturers and with international norms and standards (including VDA, DIN, ISO and SAE).

Other tests include a driving simulation and permeation measurement, which is a way to test the fuel tank for emissions. Testing is usually conducted early in the product development process but can also be applied to post-production samples to verify compliance.

Why is fuel tank testing important?

Fuel tank and component testing provides OEMs as well as fuel tank and component suppliers with several benefits:

• Avoid costly and time-consuming product recalls by identifying performance, safety and quality considerations during the product development process as well as through post-production inspection and testing.
• Convince your buyers with independent verification regarding product quality, safety and reliability while working together with an experienced testing laboratory.
• Ensure that your innovative fuel tank solutions meet strict quality and safety requirements already during the product development phase.
• Create a competitive advantage over other suppliers by establishing a corporate reputation that stands for quality and safety.

TÜV SÜD is your testing and certification Partner for VEHICLE FUEL TANK TESTING

TÜV SÜD has been the preferred certification partner for many manufacturers in the automotive industry for over a century. Our state-of-the-art testing facilities, professional fuel tank testing equipment, as well as our unique network of technical experts operating worldwide, offer a single source solution for achieving compliance with national regulatory requirements and industry standards. TÜV SÜD technical professionals are actively involved in international standards development activities, providing our clients with the most up-to-date knowledge of current and future requirements for fuel tank testing.

TÜV SÜD has established a world-class automotive laboratory infrastructure that can evaluate and test almost every type of automotive systems and components, including fuel tanks in cars and other vehicles. Additionally, our technical professionals are well-versed in new and emerging automotive technologies, allowing them to provide innovative suppliers with the necessary expertise to evaluate advanced product designs for compliance. With our advanced fuel tank testing procedures, we can ensure that the fuel tank of a new vehicle is operating properly and safely. After successful testing, the product development process can proceed as planned and major issues with the fuel tank during further steps will be less likely.

TÜV SÜD's fuel tank and component testing services

TÜV SÜD tests all fuel tank parts as well as the tank itself. We offer pressure testing for fuel tanks as well as functional testing and examining all relevant fuel tank components. Overall, we provide various services for endurance and application testing: