P-300C-T1 – Electronics International Fuel Capacitive Header Probe
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The Electronics International P-300C-T1 is a high-precision, solid-state fuel level sensing probe designed for aircraft utilizing capacitive fuel quantity systems. Unlike traditional mechanical "float-style" senders that are prone to friction-induced wear, fuel slosh errors, and "dead spots," the P-300C-T1 utilizes an advanced capacitive measurement principle to provide linear, high-resolution fuel data. Specifically designed for "Header" tank configurations or deep-tank geometries, the T1 variant features a bendable or cut-to-length probe structure, allowing it to be calibrated to the specific dihedral and depth of the airframe’s fuel cell.
The P-300C-T1 is engineered to integrate seamlessly with Electronics International fuel quantity gauges (such as the FL-1 or P-300C series displays). By measuring the change in electrical capacitance between two concentric or parallel electrodes as the fuel level rises and falls, this probe delivers an accuracy within 1% of the fuel volume. This level of precision is critical for mission planning in General Aviation and experimental aircraft, where accurate "fuel-to-starvation" data is a primary safety requirement.
Key Features
Non-Mechanical Solid-State Design: With no moving parts, the probe is immune to the mechanical fatigue, sticking, and pivot-wear that plague traditional float senders in high-vibration environments.
Cut-to-Length Versatility: The probe can be shortened to fit a specific tank depth, ensuring that "Zero" and "Full" readings are calibrated to the actual usable fuel limits of the tank.
Slosh-Filtering Logic: The capacitive sensing method, when paired with EI's digital displays, naturally dampens the effects of fuel "sloshing" during taxi, climb, and turbulence, providing a steady needle or digit.
High Chemical Resilience: Manufactured with specialized insulating spacers and high-grade aluminum or stainless steel electrodes that are fully compatible with Avgas (100LL), Mogas, and Jet-A.
Precision Signal Output: Delivers a stable voltage or frequency signal that minimizes electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring reliable communication with the cockpit avionics suite.
Technical Specifications
Part Number: P-300C-T1
Manufacturer: Electronics International (EI)
Component Type: Capacitive Fuel Quantity Probe
Input Voltage: Typically 12V or 24V DC (Regulated by the display instrument)
Probe Length: 12 inches to 24 inches (Standard T1 is cut-to-length compatible)
Operating Principle: Dielectric Constant Differential (Capacitance)
Accuracy: +/- 1% of full scale
Materials: Anodized Aluminum / Delrin or PTFE Spacers
Interface: Compatible with Electronics International FL-1P, FL-2, and MVP-50/C-30 series displays.
Aircraft Compatibility
Experimental/Amateur-Built (E-AB): RV-series, Glasair, Lancair, and Kitfox.
Certified Aircraft: Applicable via STC or as a replacement in EI-certified fuel systems on Cessna, Piper, and Beechcraft airframes.
Header Tank Specifics: Ideal for gravity-fed header tanks in high-wing or aerobatic aircraft where accurate "final reserve" sensing is paramount.
Note: Verify the probe length and tank clearance against the EI Installation Manual before cutting or bending the electrode.
Applications
The P-300C-T1 is utilized for Primary Fuel Level Monitoring. Its primary role is to detect the volumetric level of fuel by measuring the dielectric change within the tank. It is especially effective in irregularly shaped tanks where a mechanical float might bind against internal ribs or baffles.
Why Choose P-300C-T1?
Choosing the Electronics International P-300C-T1 ensures that your fuel system is free from the inherent inaccuracies of "wiper-arm" resistance senders. In many GA accidents, "fuel exhaustion" is cited due to misleading float readings during low-fuel states. The P-300C-T1 provides consistent linearity, meaning the difference between 2 gallons and 0 gallons is as clear and accurate as the difference between Full and Half.
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SEO-Enhanced Addendum
The P-300C-T1 functions as a variable capacitor where the air and fuel act as the dielectric medium. The physics are governed by the formula C = ε * (A/d), where ε represents the permittivity of the material between the plates. Because the dielectric constant of Avgas (ε ≈ 2.1) is significantly higher than that of air (ε ≈ 1.0), the total capacitance of the probe increases proportionally as it is submerged in fuel.
This change is processed by the instrument's frequency-to-voltage converter, resulting in a linear output. Because there are no mechanical pivots, the system avoids hysteresis—the lag or error typically seen when a float "sticks" while the fuel level is dropping. The probe’s spacers are designed to maintain a consistent gap geometry, ensuring that the capacitance-to-volume ratio remains constant across a wide temperature envelope.
Note: This is a flight-critical fuel system component. Installation requires precise calibration of "Empty" and "Full" set points on the display instrument. Ensure the probe is properly grounded to the airframe to prevent static discharge. Do not use standard hardware-store sealants; use only fuel-resistant Pro-Seal or equivalent at the mounting flange. Installation must be performed by a certified A&P mechanic or the aircraft builder in accordance with the Electronics International Installation Guide and FAA AC 43.13-1B.