Which feature is essential for the effectiveness of vapor recovery systems?

The effectiveness of vapor recovery systems largely relies on the ability to automatically evacuate vapors during the transfer of liquid fuel. Automatic evacuation ensures that any vapor produced during the fueling process is efficiently captured and returned to the storage tank or recovery system rather than being released into the atmosphere. This is crucial not only for maintaining compliance with environmental regulations but also for enhancing the overall efficiency of fuel transfer operations.

In addition to being a key aspect of effective vapor control, automatic systems reduce the likelihood of human error associated with manual operations. By minimizing the need for constant monitoring or intervention, automatic evacuation systems allow for continuous vapor recovery, thereby maximizing environmental protection and operational effectiveness. This feature directly contributes to the primary goal of vapor recovery systems: to minimize vapor emissions during fuel handling processes.

While regular inspections, periodic testing, and manual operation are important aspects of maintaining and managing vapor recovery systems, they do not contribute as directly to the immediate effectiveness of vapor capture during fuel transfer activities. Regular inspections and periodic testing help ensure that the systems function properly, but without an automatic evacuation feature, the core purpose of capturing vapors could be compromised.