California ICC UST Service Technician Practice Exam

A vacuum-assist nozzle is a key component of which system?

1. Stage I Vapor Recovery system

2. Stage II Vapor Recovery system

3. Fuel Dispensing system

4. Emergency Shutoff system

The correct answer is: Stage II Vapor Recovery system

A vacuum-assist nozzle plays a crucial role in the Stage II Vapor Recovery system, which is designed to capture and control vapors released during the refueling of motor vehicles. When fuel is dispensed into a vehicle, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can evaporate, contributing to air pollution and potential health hazards. The vacuum-assist nozzle utilizes a vacuum to pull these vapors back into the dispensing system, preventing them from escaping into the atmosphere. This system includes components that work together to minimize emissions, and the nozzle itself is specifically engineered to create a vacuum while dispensing fuel, ensuring that displaced vapors are captured and returned to the underground storage tank (UST) or processed in a controlled manner. This is especially important in urban areas where pollution control is essential for regulatory compliance and environmental protection. In contrast, the Stage I Vapor Recovery system focuses on capturing vapors released from tank trucks during the transfer of fuel to underground storage tanks, rather than during vehicle refueling. While a fuel dispensing system does involve the transfer of fuel, it may not always incorporate vapor recovery mechanisms directly at the nozzle. The emergency shutoff system is unrelated to vapor recovery and is primarily designed for safety, allowing operators to quickly stop fuel flow in emergencies. Thus,