Definition: Natural gas that has been compressed to less than 1% of its volume at standard atmospheric pressure, primarily composed of methane, and used as an alternative fuel source for vehicles and industrial applications.
Key Components:
- Compression Process: Natural gas is compressed to high pressures, typically around 20–25 megapascals (2,900–3,600 psi), to reduce its volume for storage and transportation.
- Storage Cylinders: High-pressure containers, often cylindrical or spherical, designed to safely store and transport CNG.
- Fueling Infrastructure: CNG refueling stations equipped with compressors and dispensers to service vehicles.
Use Cases/Industries:
- Transportation: Fuel for light-duty cars, buses, and trucks as an alternative to gasoline or diesel.
- Public Transit: Municipal bus fleets adopting CNG to reduce emissions and fuel costs.
- Commercial Fleets: Delivery and service vehicles utilizing CNG for cost savings and environmental benefits.
Advantages:
- Lower Emissions: Produces fewer undesirable emissions compared to gasoline or diesel, contributing to improved air quality.
- Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than traditional fuels, leading to operational savings.
- Abundant Supply: Utilizes existing natural gas resources, reducing dependence on oil.
Challenges:
- Limited Refueling Infrastructure: Fewer CNG stations compared to gasoline stations, affecting convenience.
- Storage Requirements: Requires high-pressure tanks, which can be bulky and heavy.
- Conversion Costs: Modifying existing vehicles to run on CNG can be expensive.
Related Terms:
- Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG): Natural gas that has been cooled to liquid form for ease of storage or transport.
- Biogas: Renewable natural gas produced from organic matter, which can be processed into CNG.
- Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs): Vehicles powered by fuels other than traditional gasoline or diesel.
Example: A city transit authority converts its bus fleet to CNG, resulting in lower fuel costs and reduced emissions, thereby improving urban air quality.
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Synonyms:
Natural Gas Vehicle Fuel
