What happens to water and contaminants in the fuel system?

Water and contaminants in the fuel system primarily settle at the bottom of the fuel tanks due to their density being greater than that of the fuel. This separation allows for easier management and removal of these unwanted elements, preventing them from being circulated into the engine where they could cause damage or inefficiencies in performance. Fuel systems are designed with sediment bowls or drains that collect these settled contaminants, which can be drained periodically during maintenance checks. This ensures that only clean fuel reaches the engine, thereby maintaining optimal operational efficiency and safety.