If the AFT potable water tank has insulation, what is its effect?

The insulation on the AFT potable water tank primarily serves the purpose of preventing freezing. In environments where temperatures can drop significantly, insulated tanks help maintain the temperature of the water, ensuring that it remains above the freezing point. This is especially important for aircraft operations in cold weather, where temperatures can affect not just the water supply but also the overall system functionality. Proper insulation is crucial to avoid complications that could arise from frozen water lines or tanks, which can disrupt the availability of potable water and lead to operational challenges during flights.

While insulation can contribute to other factors, such as reducing the rate of heat transfer, its most critical function in this context relates to preventing freezing, thereby ensuring that the potable water remains usable throughout the flight.