A vapor recovery nozzle is a device used at gasoline pumps to capture gasoline vapors that escape from vehicle fuel tanks during refueling. These vapors, if released into the atmosphere, contribute to air pollution and pose health and safety risks. The vapor recovery nozzle collects these vapors through holes in the nozzle and channels them back through a separate hose to the underground storage tanks at the gas station, where the vapors are condensed and stored for reuse. This process significantly reduces the release of harmful hydrocarbons into the air and also conserves fuel by returning vapors to the tank
. The nozzle is part of a larger vapor recovery system that includes hoses, vapor separators, and vacuum pumps to ensure the vapors are safely captured and transported back to storage. Vapor recovery nozzles are designed to be efficient and comply with environmental regulations, removing about 95% of vapors that would otherwise escape during refueling
. Proper use of the nozzle, such as fully inserting it into the vehicle's fuel tank and not topping off the tank, is important to avoid vapor escape or spillage
. In summary, a vapor recovery nozzle helps reduce air pollution by capturing gasoline vapors during refueling and returning them to storage tanks, making fuel dispensing safer and more environmentally friendly.
