Is the cockpit space considered vented?

[Zach]

Hi guys,

I'm considering shrinking the volume of my cockpit by adding a vented gasoline locker at its forward end.

Question though... would this be considered vented? Gasoline is heavier than air... but my bilge blower vented to the cockpit...

It's either there or in the Lazarette, after making it water tight and adding a vent or two... but I'd like to put the weight somewhere useful.

Not a fan of blowing up, so figure I'd ask!

[David M]

Exactly where are you contemplating storing gasoline? This is a pretty serious decision considering the nature of gasoline. There is a lot to consider here. I would get a professionals advice who is actually there to see what you are considering.

[sabray]

The tank contained in a air tight sealed vessel and vented overboard may be okay. Ventd to the cockpit I would not consider. the Tank should have a top pick up as all certified fuel tanks have. Considering the amount of work you have done maybe a replacement deisal engine would work better.

[Zach]

Gasoline's proposed storage: a new vented fiberglass locker in the front of my cockpit. Aft of the bridge deck, effectively extending it out enough for around 10 gallons, then running the gas line on deck to the outboard. I have thought of welding up a stainless tank and mounting it under the cockpit sole, but would prefer to keep my red plastic tanks... as they work as complete duplicate fuel systems if one is contaminated.

The original installation was a steel tank in the starboard cockpit locker. Which blocked access to the whole locker, save a drop in tray, and had a copper line running to a transom vent.

I have been using a portable plastic tank strapped to the aft deck, but would like to get the weight out of the ends of the boat where possible. Shrinking cockpit volume at the same time seems like a workable plan in the event of a wave filling the cockpit.

So... I guess my question is: Is a gas can in the cockpit considered vented and on deck. Or is it no better than storing in the bilge or cockpit locker...

Thanks for your thoughts,

Zach

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by Zach

”...Is a gas can in the cockpit considered vented and on deck ...”

NO.

Every fuel tank shall have a venting system that:
(a) discharges fuel vapours overboard;
(b) does not allow a fuel overflow to enter the vessel;
(c) minimizes the accidental entry of water; and
(d) prevents pressure in the tank from exceeding 80% of the rated pressure of the tank.

Tank vent systems shall be self-draining and connect to the highest point of the fuel tank as installed in the vessel under conditions of normal operation and normal trim.

Gasoline vapours are 3 - 4 times heavier* than air.

*relative vapor density 3-4, where air is 1

[Zach]

Well that answers that!

Thanks guys.

[Zach]

I've been sitting here pondering where to put a tank, and I think I've arrived to thinking that the tank has to have its own vent... and the locker needs a blower/vent of its own. (Not thinking to put it in the cockpit any longer... weight is up high. )

But... Getting to my next question: What about all the dinghys, jon boats, and little powerboats with the red plastic gas tanks laying around inside? Are they equally hazardous?

Zach

[Roy M]

Build a locker able to hold a couple 5 gallon containers. Mount it forward, say, at the base of the mast or forward of the cabin. Secure it to the deck or cabintop. Make it a comfy place to sit or stand on.