IMS Operation and Service of Natural Gas Systems

A gas fuel made up mostly of methane, found in underground reserves.

A fuel blend with 85% gasoline and 15% denatured alcohol, mainly sourced from corn and agricultural waste.

A liquid fuel composed of propane and butane, produced as a byproduct of oil refining or natural gas processing.

A fuel blend containing 85% gasoline and 15% methanol, derived from natural gas, coal, or wood.

The amount of energy produced by one gallon of any fuel compared to the energy output of one gallon of gasoline.

A measurement of a fuel's resistance to knocking or premature detonation within an engine.

A fuel delivery system for compressed gas engines, where fuel is injected directly into the engine through electronically controlled valves.

A fuel delivery system using a carburetor to mix air and fuel before it enters the engine.

A fuel-efficient system that uses electronics to precisely control the air-fuel mixture, optimizing engine power and fuel economy.

A system that allows an engine to run on both gasoline and compressed natural gas (CNG).

A computer system that oversees the engine's performance, receiving data from sensors and adjusting parameters like fuel injection and timing.

Sensors that monitor pressure changes in components like fuel tanks and lines.

Sensors that monitor temperature changes in components like engine coolant and manifolds.

Sensors that monitor the position of throttle and pedals, transmitting data to the ECU.

A valve that controls fuel flow, allowing fuel to pass only when starting or running the engine.

A difference between gas and CNG engines is that the fuel is already vaporized in CNG engines, unlike gas engines that require vaporization in the carburetor.

CNG is stored in cylinders under pressure, typically ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 PSI.

CNG cylinders can be made from either aluminum or steel and often have a fiberglass coating for extra strength and insulation.

The size of the CNG cylinder ranges from 5 to 12 gallons, influencing the vehicle's overall fuel capacity.

The lines transporting CNG from storage cylinders are made of stainless steel to withstand pressure and corrosion.

The fuel pressure regulator reduces the high pressure of CNG from the storage cylinders to usable levels for the engine.

The fuel pressure regulator has two stages, reducing the pressure from thousands of PSI to around 2.5 ounces PSI.

Fuel injected CNG engines use an electronically-controlled regulator to reduce the pressure to about 130 PSI before entering the fuel metering block.

CNG fuel systems should only be serviced by trained technicians.

A device that regulates fuel pressure in a CNG fuel system, similar to a fuel pressure regulator in an EFI system.

A component of a CNG fuel system that automatically shuts off the fuel supply in case of an engine stall, preventing a potential hazard.

A device used in a CNG fuel system to reduce the high pressure from the fuel storage cylinder to the lower pressure required by the engine.

A process that converts natural gas into a liquid state by cooling it to an extremely low temperature (-259°F).

The chemical odorant added to CNG to allow users to detect leaks through a noticeable smell.

A safety feature in a CNG fuel system that allows excess pressure to vent safely, preventing potential catastrophic explosions.

A fuel that is not derived from petroleum, offering energy security and environmental benefits.

A type of power system capable of running on either gasoline or compressed gas.

Converts pressurized fuel to a dry gas, similar to how a kettle boils water to steam.

A system that operates with more air than fuel for combustion, resulting in a leaner mixture.

A valve that controls fuel flow in a compressed-gas system, preventing premature gas release.

A program to train and certify technicians for servicing CNG and LPG systems.

A certification program designed to ensure that training programs meet industry standards.

A division that offers LPG/CNG technician certification and instruction in Texas.

LPG vapors are heavier than air and accumulate in low areas, creating a potential explosion hazard if ignited by a spark or flame.

CNG vapors are lighter than air, rising and dispersing, but can accumulate in confined spaces posing a risk.

Routine inspections for corrosion and cracks are crucial for CNG tanks, typically every 3-5 years depending on material.

LPG tanks don't have a set inspection schedule, but periodic checks are necessary for corrosion or damage.

Storing LPG and CNG under pressure requires specialized training for technicians due to the potential hazards.

The National Propane Gas Association offers a training program covering various aspects of the LPG Industry.

The use of alternative fuels like CNG and LPG has significant implications for commercial applications like transportation and warehousing.

CNG and LPG technologies are well suited for various applications, including irrigation wells, generators, and portable welders.