Aero Tec Laboratories

ATL Racing Fuel Cell Bladders - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q How long does a fuel cell bladder last?
A Most ATL racing cells are warranteed for 5 years, which is the legal life span established by most racing organizations.
 
Q What is the FIA Hologram and do I need it?
A The new FIA labeling and hologram requirements were implemented in January of 2013 as an advanced form of record keeping and anti-counterfeiting device. These holograms are required for any racing series that are sanctioned by or follow the rules and regulations of the FIA. The vast majority of these racing series are based outside of North America but be sure to check with your rules advisor to inquire whether the FIA Hologram is required or not. CLICK HERE to Learn More...
 
Q Does FIA allow for recertification?
A Yes, under FIA rules, an approved bladder* may be returned, in its 5th year, to its manufacturer for inspection, and if warranted, up to 2 years of life extension will be granted.
*Not applicable to NASCAR bladders.
 
Q Does ATL produce fuel cells for "flex-fuel" cars?
A

Yes, ATL has developed a new soft rubber bladder material called "FluoroCell" which can accomodate ALL-FUELS!

In addition, ATL's Sports Cells and Saver Cells (hard rubber molded bladders) offer good resistance to aromatic gasoline, diesel, Jet fuels, ethanol, methanol, bio-diesel, M85, E85 and oxygenated no-leads. However, a thorough annual fuel system inspection is highly recommended.
 

Q How often do I need to replace safety foam baffling?
A Modern anti-explosion foams offer good gasoline resistance and rarely need replacing during the fuel bladder life. However, oxygen bearing fuels do affect safety foam which should be inspected several times per year, and replaced every 2 years.
 
Q Do ATL cells come with roll-over check valves?
A Yes, with very few exceptions, all ATL fuel cell systems include a fill valve and vent valve to help prevent fuel loss if the vehicle rolls over or if the bladder is crushed.
 
Q Do all fuel bladders need a container or enclosure?
A Yes, ATL recommends enclosing all bladders in steel, aluminum or composite containers. These rigid enclosures support the bladder, allow for secure mounting, and function as a flame shield too.
 
Q How do I order a custom fuel cell bladder?
A Easy; measure up the space available remembering 1 cu.ft. = 7.5 U.S. gallons; then make a hand sketch; indicate the preferred locations for fittings and submit to ATL. One of our sale engineers will help with the exact fit and design details.
 
Q Does ATL offer a fuel cell repair kit?
A Sorry no, all repairs must be performed at an ATL factory in order for the bladder certification to remain valid.
 
Q Does ATL offer custom Saver Cells?
A Sorry, Saver and Sports Cells are molded on expensive tooling. Custom configurations are possible, but not practical for quantities less than 50 bladders.
 
Q What accessories does ATL offer for its fuel cells?
A Many! Please see ATL's Catalog. Most popular are ATL's level gauges and low-level lights, quick-fill valves, dry breaks, surge tanks , in-tank pumps, fill caps, lightweight cans etc.
 
Q Does ATL sell any fuel cells with an electric EFI pump already installed inside?
A Yes, ATL offers the Max-Sport (see ATL catalog) with a built-in surge tank and 100 psi pump. We also offer the ASA style 15 gal. and 22 gal. Super Cells with 2 internal pumps.
 
Q Do ATL Super Cells (soft rubber bladders) resist alcohol fuels?
A Most Super Cells display good tolerance for 15% ethanol and methanol additives if these are homogeneously blended with gasoline. Otherwise, select from ATL's broad range of alcohol bladders: Saver Cells, Sports Cells, 400 Series Sprint Cells or Type 870-B Custom Made Alky Bladders.
 
Q Does ATL produce custom fuel cell bladders for race boats and cruisers?
A Yes, a lot! ATL offers special bladder materials to resist gasoline and diesel on the inside and salt water, dampness and mildew on the outside. Speak to an ATL Sales Engineer for your best set up.
 
Q Does ATL supply tech help, instructions and pointers for installing and using safety fuel cells?
A Yes, many. Most support literature is included with the cell. However, you can find almost every installation and safety bulletin on ATL's web site by clicking the "Literature & Bulletins" Button above. Tech assistance is always available by phone, fax or e-mail.
 
Q Is ATL very experienced in making racing fuel cells?
A Quite! ATL has been producing competition fuel bladders since 1970 and ATL is the World's major supplier to Formula 1, NASCAR, World Rally, GT, Prototypes, Dirt Lake Models, Sprints, Pre-Runners and Sports Cars.
 
Q I need a super light-weight fuel cell assembly. What can ATL supply?
A ATL is the leader in fuel system weight reduction. For basic FT3 cells, ATL suggests its "Bantam" ultra-thin and light type 826-A cells. For FT3.5, try ATL's renowned type 797-B. Both are incredibly strong yet feather light. Combine these with ATL's alloy valves, composite flanges, aluminum and carbon fiber containers and special safety foam for a weight saving worth 5 to 10 HP.
 
Q What capacities are available in ATL's standard line of racing cells?
A Quite a few; in gallons of volume: 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 18, 22, 26, 32 and 44. See our Catalog.
 
Q Does ATL accept credit cards?
A Yes of course, Master Card, Visa, American Express and Discover as well as wire transfers, letters of credit, money orders, certified checks and even cash.
 
Q How does ATL stack up against JAZ and RCI fuel cells?
A As of this writing, both JAZ and RCI sell only molded plastic tanks which carry no major approvals or certifications as fuel cells. Their tanks are equipped with smaller access openings, making it difficult to service the safety foam, clean the tank, or add surge tanks, baffles, pumps and pickups. Some of the tanks are sold very cheaply, but they do not include the can, foam, or recognized roll-over valve. Yes, these tanks do serve a purpose, but they are never found in serious championship racing.
 
Q Does ATL have any competition in Europe?
A Yes, ATL has competition everywhere, yet we are the largest racing cell manufacturer in the Americas and in Europe as well. Our Euro competitors include Premier Fuel Systems, Pronal, Continental Rubber and Advanced Fuel Systems. We estimate that ATL is larger than all of these combined.
 
Q We race in Asia and Australia. Does ATL cover this part of the World?
A Yes, many ATL fuel cells are sold in the Orient, but at this time, ATL does not operate a factory there. We are fortunate to work with knowledgeable agents and distributors in Japan, China, Korea and Australia. Please contact ATL for those closest to you.
 
Q How do I find an ATL distributor in my area?
A Call ATL at 800-526-5330 or click on Dealer Locator.
 

Telephone: +1-201-825-1400 e-Mail: atl@atlinc.com

Telephone: +44 (0) 1908-351700 e-Mail: atl@atlltd.com

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