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What is CNG ? (Compressed Natural
Gas)
The basic difference
between a gasoline powered vehicle and a NGV (natural gas vehicle)
is the pressure vessel located in the vehicle which holds the fuel,
typically around 3,600 psi. Other than the fill procedure, the
operation of the vehicle is seamless to the driver.
Among some users there is some anxiety about having this pressurized
gas inside the vehicle, but this product is in fact safer than
gasoline powered units. Keep in mind that these tanks are
made of a composite material built to meet extensive safety
guidelines with a safety factor of 4-to-1 (NASA requires a 1.4-to-1
ratio)
Natural gas itself actually has a higher combustion level as
compared to
gasoline and since it’s lighter than air it will disperse quickly to
further reduce any
chances for combustion unlike gasoline, which can pool up and remain
flammable for a long period of time.
From the maintenance and repair aspect, NG is no different than a
gasoline powered unit. All the engine controls and diagnostics
are still in use so it can be repaired easily. Since natural
gas is a simple hydrocarbon, it will burn more completely reducing
the amount of carbon buildup inside the engine as well as
reduce the
emissions from the tail pipe. Some manufacturers even are CARB
certified as SULEV (super ultra low emission vehicle).
Vehicles powered by CNG offer the fleet owner an opportunity to
utilize a domestically supplied fuel thus allowing them to control
their fuel costs while greening their fleet. Natural gas is
readily available throughout North America and while the high
pressure fill stations are not widespread, smaller fuel makers are,
and can be installed on smaller sites. With the renewed
interest in this technology, Auto Truck Group is taking the steps to
offer our customers this conversion for trucks that operate in
rigorous environments.
Auto Truck
Group
CNG
Overview (PDF)
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