to the effects of friction. Automotive surge tanks The surge tank is utilized in automotive applications to ensure that the inlet to the fuel pump is never starved for fuel. It is typically used in vehicles with electronic fuel injection or that will be sustaining high lateral acceleration loads for extended periods. Aircraft surge tanks Aircraft surge tanks are used on a select few aircraft to ensure that fuel does not spill over onto the ground when the fuel expands. These tanks must be periodically emptied to prevent fuel from spilling, which they do fairly often. See also References Hydraulics Plumbing