COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) TECHNOLOGY FOR POWERING VEHICLE

By S.K.Ansari (Speaker & Author) Seema Ansari (Co-author) Adeel Ansari (Co-author) Abstract on CNG

CNG is a safe fuel. Being lighter than air, it disperses easily into the atmosphere and does not form
a sufficiently rich mixture for combustion to take place. CNG is 130 octane, which is considerably higher than 93 octane for petrol; consequently, CNG vehicle is more energy efficient. Higher octane rating allows higher compression ratios and improved thermal efficiency4, reducing carbon dioxide emissions. CNG allows the use of catalytic converter more efficiently than diesel. Compared to petrol or diesel, CNG vehicles emit 40% less of nitrous oxide (a toxic gas that creates smog), 90% less of hydrocarbons (which carry carcinogens), 80% less of carbon monoxide (a poisonous pollutant), and 25% less of carbon dioxide (a major greenhouse gas). Further, noise level of CNG engine is much lower than that of diesel. It was estimate a conventional diesel bus is roughly 100 times more harmful than a CNG bus, while diesel engines with particulate filters (Euro IV) still being more harmful than CNG engine by a factor of four. Gasoline and diesel were to be substituted with NG for motor vehicles, which is now a mature technology. Most of the vehicles in Japan run on LPG, but are now opting for CNG. Bangladesh too plans to convert its fleet to CNG mode. Italy has about 300,000 vehicles running on CNG, with a network of 280 filling stations. Pakistan has declared CNG as the fuel of the future. The conversion process has been going on for the past fivesix years and Pakistan is now successfully running about 1,60,000 vehicles on CNG. By converting 100,000 cars to CNG, Pakistan plans to save about US $ 30 million per year. In UK, the market for CNG vehicles has expanded rapidly over the past five years. Korea too proposes 20,000 diesel-powered buses to be replaced by those running on CNG.

Natural Gas Vehicles

When it comes to transportation, one thing has become increasingly clear over the past decade: The world can no longer afford to depend on oil as an energy source. For one thing, the oil supply is simply running out. Demand for oil in both developed and developing countries is rising significantly, and by 2020, the world could face an energy crisis. Even more disturbing is the wellpublicized environmental damage being done by exhausts from gasoline and diesel vehicles. The solution: alternative fuelsthe most attractive of which is natural gas. Heres why: Natural gas is good for the environment, because its one of the cleanest burning fuels available. Using natural gas instead of gasoline and diesel fuel can: o Reduce ozone-depleting greenhouse gases by up to 25 percent. o Reduce airborne particulates by up to 99 percent. o Reduce harmful, smog-producing gases (carbon monoxide by up to 90 percent and nitrous oxides between 60 and 85 percent). Many countries offer special tax incentives to encourage use of natural gas.

Heavy-duty vehicles using natural gas, especially CNG, have made significant progress toward meeting stringent emission requirements mandated by governments around the worldrequirements that conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles cannot meet. Unlike so many other fuels that are reliant on the development of new technology, natural gas is readilyand abundantlyavailable now from stable sources that offer security of supply.

Pakistans Natural Gas (NG)

Pakistan has limited natural gas deposits. At present, recoverable natural gas reserves in Pakistan are 32 Trillion Cubic Feet (TCF) and reserve to production (R/P) ratio based on current production of 3.7 Billion Cubic Feet per Day (BCFD) is 23 years. One of the significant developments in local gas market is the increase of the natural gas share in primary energy supply mix from about 40% in 1990-2000 to over 52% in 2004-05 in about five years. If the demand /supply trend of past five years is maintained, the R/P (reserve to Production) ratio reduces significantly necessitating urgent need to increase natural gas supply. The Government has accordingly placed the highest priority to (a) enhance indigenous natural gas supplies through intensifies exploration efforts and (b) import natural gas through pipeline from neighboring countries as well as LNG. While the Federal Government I making concerted efforts to enhance natural gas supplies to meet growing demand, it is extremely important to establish a natural gas allocation and management plan to promote efficacious utilization of precious depleting natural resource. Particularly given the dominant role of natural gas in domestic energy landscape. Therefore, the Federal government has set out these policy guidelines for the purpose in the paragraphs that follow

Current Position
As on 30th. June 2005, natural gas is being supplied to various categories of consumers that are either connected to the pipeline system or independent pipeline network directly from Exploration and Production (E&P) Companies as per details given below: On the SNGPL/SSGPL System Domestic Sector Commercial Sector Fertilizer Plants Industrial Units WAPDA & KESC Power Plant Cement Plants Captive Power Plants CNG Sub-Total (A) On Independent network Fertilizer Plants WAPDA & KESC Power Plants Independent Power Plants Sub-Total (B) Grand Total (A + B) Percentage load 15.6 2.4 5.2 19.4 32.5 1.2 4.2 0.5 81 Percentage load 8.5 7.2 3.3 19 100

14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000

MMcfd

Figures in MMcfd at 950 btu/scf

11.1 Bcfd

6.3 Bcfd

Demand
1.2 Bcfd

Supply

3.1 Bcfd

2,000 0

Shortfall

CNG Industry in Pakistan

The CNG Industry in Pakistan has witnessed a tremendous growth in the last decade by virtue of friendly policies by the Government and the key role played by CNG station owners and vehicle owners. The Government support the CNG station owners untiring efforts and huge investments has enable Pakistans CNG industry to attain the topmost position in the world. Pakistan is extremely fortunate to have extensive gas reserves to meet the needs of the vehicle owners who have invested more than Rs 60 billion to convert their vehicle to CNG out of their merger incomes. The need for converting public transport to CNG is ever increasing due to the increase in the carbon emissions from public transport, thus creating serious hazard to the life and property of million of people. A policy was formulated by the Govt. of Pakistan in 1992 which has been enforced with some amendments from time to time as per needs of the CNG Industry. This policy was formulated at a time when the Govt. had shortage of petrol and diesel reserves in the country. At that time, investors made huge investments to rescue the Govt. from such situation and a full fledge CNG policy was formulated to ensure that investors interest are protected. It also provided cover to millions of households who had made investments to use environmental-friendly fuel which is cost effective as well. The CNG Policy of 1992 proved to be viable for all the entities associated with the industry which includes the consumers, the CNG Dealers Association and as well as the CNG station owners. It appears as the CNG Dealers Association and CNG station owners were most benefited from the

Ye ar 20 07 20 08 20 10 20 11 20 12 20 13 20 14 20 15 20 20

Demand

Supply

Short fall

above mentioned policy as of late they have been pressurizing the Govt. once again to implement the 1992 policy keeping in view the current shortages of petrol and diesel. It will also reduce the consumption of precious fuels (petrol and diesel) for automotive purposes that further aggravate the economic and environmental situation. Many countries round the world are drafting laws to ensure plethora of car owners to consume CNG. The Indian Govt. has also passed an order resulting in complete shift of public transport to CNG in New Delhi. Also, in USA, through incentives of $ 250 to each CNG vehicles manufactures , utilization of natural gas is urged.

CNG Kit in Pakistan

In Pakistan mostly kit using are belong to LANDI RENZO by the Italian manufacturer with complete technology transfer to Pakistan. Pakistan is producing 15,000 CNG kit per month with ultra fine quality to meet with the international standard. It was of the view that Landi Renzo has a market share of 95 percent in CNG kits in Pakistan which are meeting 100 percent requirements of OEM for CNG kits. The sales for Landi Renzo were reached to 170,000 kits in 2008. Pakistan is an important market for Landi Renzo in terns of value and volume. Landi Renzo wanted to give proper support to Pakistan and therefore, kit manufacturing and assembling with localization of parts is being encouraged here. Since meeting with the international standard, Pakistan is planning to export to the neighboring countries.

What exactly is CNG?

CNG or compressed natural gas is a domestically available, economical, clean burning, alternative fuel source for vehicles. Rather than burn gasoline or diesel fuel, a consumer would fuel their vehicle with natural gas. In order to provide enough range, the gas is compressed and stored on the vehicle in pressurized tanks. Tanks that can hold up to 3,600 psig. Not when you compare the physical properties of Natural Gas and gasoline. The fact is that natural gas is a much safer fuel than gasoline. (Ever wonder why the stove in your home doesn't burn gasoline instead of natural gas?) Just take a look at the chart below for some interesting facts:

CNG Industry in Pakistan

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a substitute for gasoline (petrol) or diesel fuel. It is considered to be an environmentally clean alternative to those fuels. It is made by compressing methane (CH4) extracted from natural gas. Argentina and Brazil are the two countries with the largest fleets of CNG vehicles. As of 2005, Pakistan is the largest user of CNG in Asia, and third largest in the world. The Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) sector of Pakistan by end of 2007 has attracted over Rs 70 billion investments during the last few years as a result of liberal and encouraging policies of the government. Presently, more than 2,700 CNG stations are operating in the country in 85 cities and towns, and 1000 more would be setup in the next three years. It has provided employment to above 30,000 people in Pakistan.

Over 2 million vehicles were converted to CNG as of march 2009, showing an increase of 35 percent yearly. On average 29,167 vehicles are being converted to CNG every month. All Pakistan CNG Association (APA) Sana-ur-Rehman confirms that CNG stakeholders have invested Rs.90 billion in this sector and another Rs 20 billion investment is in pipeline. The CNG consumers had invested around Rs 60 billion in converting their vehicles to CNG. The CNG was replacing at least 6.12 billion liters of petrol every year and saving foreign exchange to the tune of billions of dollars. The CNG sector pays 24 percent sales tax and 4 percent withholding tax to the government. Moreover, the CNG is contributing tremendously towards maintaining the air pollution level lower since it emits almost 85 percent less harmful gasses, zero lead and zero particulate matter.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Pakistan

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a substitute for gasoline (petrol) or diesel fuel. It is considered to be an CNG has grown into one of the major fuel sources used in car engines in Pakistan, Bangladesh and India. The government of Punjab, Pakistan, the most populous province of that country, has mandated that all public-transport vehicles will use CNG by 2007. CNG is an environmentally clean alternative to those fuels. It is made by compressing methane (CH4) extracted from natural gas. It is stored and distributed in hard containers, usually cylinders. Conversion has been facilitated by a substantial price differential with liquid fuels, locally-produced conversion equipment and a growing CNG-delivery infrastructure. A Blue-network of CNG stations is being developed on the major highways of the Southern Cone to allow for long-haul transportation fuelled by CNG. According to the International Association for Natural Gas Vehicles, Pakistan has the third-largest number of natural gas vehicles. In the Middle East and Africa, Egypt is a top ten country in the world with more than 63000 CNG vehicles and 95 fueling stations nationwide. Egypt was also the first nation in Africa and the Middle East to open a public CNG fuelling station in January 1996. Brisbane Transport and Trans-Perth in Australia have both adopted a policy of only purchasing CNG buses in future; the former purchasing 216 Scania L94UB and 180 MAN 18.310 models, with the latter purchasing 451 Mercedes-Benz OC500LE buses, including 58 articulated buses. Brisbane Transport has also ordered up to 30 articulated CNG buses on MAN chassis. During the 1970s and 1980s, CNG was commonly used in New Zealand in the wake of the oil crises, but fell into decline after petrol prices receded.

CNG Technology
CNG can easily be used in Otto-cycle (gasoline) and modified Diesel cycle engines. Lean-burn Ottocycle engines can achieve higher thermal efficiencies when compared with stoichiometric Ottocycle engines at the expense of higher NOx and hydrocarbon emissions. Electronically-controlled stoichio-metric engines offer the lowest emissions across the board and the highest possible power output, especially when combined with EGR, turbo charging and inter-cooling, and three way catalytic converters. The octane rating of CNG is far greater than Petrol and if handled correctly it can produce same or more power output from an engine provided the Compressed Natural Gas is compressed properly and accurate amounts of BTU Figures attained.CNG cylinders can be made of steel, aluminum, or plastic. Lightweight composite (fiber-wrapped plastic) cylinders are especially beneficial for vehicular use because they offer significant weight reductions when compared with earlier generation steel and aluminum cylinders, which leads to lower fuel consumption. CNG may be refueled from low-pressure or high-pressure systems. The difference lies in the cost of the station vs. the refueling time. There are also some implementations to refuel out of a residential gas line during the night, but this is forbidden in some countries.

CNG compared to LNG and LPG

CNG is often confused with LNG. While both are stored forms of natural gas, the key difference is that CNG is in compressed form, while LNG is in liquefied form. CNG has a lower cost of production and storage compared to LNG as it does not require an expensive cooling process and cryogenic tanks. CNG requires a much larger volume to store the same mass of natural gas and the use of high pressures.CNG is also often confused with LPG, which is a compressed blend of propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10).

The Advantages of Compressed Natural Gas

The Environmentally Clean Advantage Compressed natural gas is the cleanest burning fuel operating today. This means less vehicle maintenance and longer engine life. CNG vehicles produce the fewest emissions of any motor fuel. Dedicated Natural Gas Vehicles (NGV) has little or no emissions during fueling. In gasoline vehicles, fueling emissions account for at least 50% of a vehicles total hydrocarbon emissions. CNG produces significantly less pollutants than gasoline. Tailpipe emissions from gasoline operated cars release carbon dioxide, which contributes to gobal warming. This is greatly reduced with natural gas.

The Maintenance Advantage

Some fleet operators have reduced maintenance costs by as much as 40% by converting their vehicles to CNG. Intervals between tune-ups for natural gas vehicles are extended 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Intervals between oil changes for natural gas vehicles are dramatically extendedanywhere from 10,000 to 25,000 additional miles depending on how the vehicle is used. Natural gas does not react to metals the way gasoline does, so pipes and mufflers last much longer.

The Performance Advantage

Natural gas gives the same mileage as gasoline in a converted vehicle. Dedicated CNG engines are superior in performance to gasoline engines. CNG has an octane rating of 130 and has a slight efficiency advantage over gasoline. Because CNG is already in a gaseous state, NGVs have superior starting and drivability, even under severe hot and cold weather conditions. NGVs experience less knocking and no vapor locking.

The CNG Cost Advantage

Natural gas is cheaper per equivalent gallon than gasoline (an average of 15% to 50% less than gasoline).

The Safety Advantage

Surveys indicate that NGVs are as safe or safer than those powered by other fuels. A 1992 AGA survey of more than 8,000 vehicles found that with more than 278 million miles traveled, NGV injury rates per vehicle mile traveled were 34% lower than the rate for gasoline vehicles. There were no fatalities reportedeven though these vehicles were involved in over 1,800 collisions.

Physical Properties of Gasoline, Diesel, LPG and CNG

PROPERTIES Physical State Boiling Range (oF @ 1 atm) Density (lb/ft3) (lb/gal) 43 to 49 5.8 to 6.5 49 to 55 6.5 to 7.3 31b 4.1b 8c 1.07c GASOLINE LIQUID 80 to 420 DIESEL No. 2 LIQUID 320 to 720 LPG (HD-5) GAS -44 to 31 CNG GAS -259a

Net Energy Content Btu/lb. Btu/gal. Autoignition Temperature (oF) Flashpoint (oF) Octane Range (R+M) 2 Number

18,700 - 19,100 112,000 - 121,000

18,900 123,000 - 128,000

19,800 82,000

21,300a 22,800a

450 - 900

400 - 500

920 1,020

1,350

-45 87 to 93

125 (min) n/a

-100 to 150 104e

-300 120e

Flammability Limits (volume % in air)

L = 1.4 H = 7.6

L = 0.7 H = 5.0 n/a

L = 2.4 H = 9.6 n/a

L = 5.3 H = 14 nontoxic

Human Exposure 500 Limit For Fuel (ppm)

Chemical Composition of Natural Gas

Natural gas is a naturally occurring gas mixture, consisting mainly of methane. While most of the gas supplied to Sui Southern Gas Company and Sui Southern Gas Company of Pakistan is from Sui Gasfield, Khandhkot Gasfield and Mari gas fieldare the main supplier. While the gas from these sources has a similar analysis, it is not entirely the same. The table below shows the typical components of natural gas on the SNGC & SSGC (Pakistan) are almost the same. Their chemical analysis report are shown below Component Methane Ethane Propane iso Butane normal Butane iso Pentane normal Pentane Hexanes plus Nitrogen Carbon Dioxide Oxygen Hydrogen Typical (mole %) 95.2 2.5 0.2 0.03 0.03 0.01 0.01 0.01 1.3 0.7 0.02 trace Analysis Range (mole %) 87.0 - 96.0 1.5 - 5.1 0.1 - 1.5 0.01 - 0.3 0.01 - 0.3 trace - 0.14 trace - 0.04 trace - 0.06 0.7 - 5.6 0.1 - 1.0 0.01 - 0.1 trace - 0.02

Specific Gravity Gross Heating Value (MJ/m3), dry basis *

0.58 37.8

0.57 - 0.62 36.0 - 40.2

The gross heating value is the total heat obtained by complete combustion at constant pressure of a unit volume of gas in air, including the heat released by condensing the water vapour in the

combustion products (gas, air, and combustion products taken at standard temperature and pressure).

Sulphur:

In the Pakistan, the typical sulphur content is 5.5 mg/m3. This includes the 4.9 mg/m3 of sulphur in the odourant (mercaptan) added to gas for safety reasons.

Water:

The water vapour content of natural gas in the Union Gas system is less than 80 mg/m3, and is typically 16 to 32 mg/m3.

Typical Combustion Properties of Natural Gas

Note that there is no guarantee that the combustion properties at your location will be exactly as shown. The properties shown are an overall average on Pakistan Gas System. Ignition Point: Flammability Limits Theoretical Flame Temperature (stoichiometric air/fuel ratio) Maximum Flame Velocity Relative density (specific gravity) Wobbe Index (Btu/scf) 593 oC * 4% - 16% (volume % in air) * 1960 oC (3562 oF) 0.3 m/s 0.58 1328

Natural Gas
Natural Gas is an organic compound that is found deep within the earth. It is a fossil fuel formed over millions of years of geological pressures and changes. Natural gas is primarily methane comprised of hydrogen and carbon. It is a safe fuel source that is commonly used in homes and businesses for heating, lighting and cooking.

Natural Gas used for powering vehicles

1. Natural gas is compressed and enters the vehicle through the natural gas dispenser or fill post 2. It flows into high-pressure cylinders that are located on the vehicle. 3. When the driver steps on the accelerator, the natural gas leaves the on-board storage cylinder, passes through the high-pressure fuel line and enters the engine compartment. 4. Gas then enters the regulator, which reduces pressure from up to 3,600 psi to approximately atmospheric pressure.

5. The natural gas solenoid valve allows natural gas to pass from the regulator into the gas mixer or fuel injectors. 6. Natural gas mixed with air flows down through the carburetor or fuel injection system and enters the engine's combustion chambers.

Natural Gas Powered Vehicles

Natural Gas an ideal fuel source for many reasons, including safety. Refer to the chart above and note the following. Natural Gas is lighter than air. This means that it will not puddle (like gasoline) or sink to the ground like propane, which is heavier than air. Instead, Natural Gas will rise and dissipate in the atmosphere. Natural gas also has a higher ignition temperature. This means that it is much harder to ignite. Also the storage systems used for compressed natural gas are infinitely stronger that the gasoline tanks found on cars and trucks today.

Types of Vehicles use Natural Gas

Taxi Cabs, Street Sweepers, Transit Buses, School Buses, Airport Shuttle Vans, Delivery Vehicles Forklifts, Ice resurfacers, Over-The-Road Trucks

CNG for Cars

The cylinder used varies according to vehicle type. The cylinders are often combined into a tank unit. Depending on the vehicle type a total volume for instance is sufficient to cover a range of some 350 km. The tank units are normally integrated in the chassis, the inside of the vehicle is not affected.

The tank unit modules including frame and valve as well as high pressure accessories should be design to place in the vehicle as shown in the above figure. When weight is a significant factor, the weight optimized composite cylinders (Type II and Type IV) can be used to power cars. Steel composite cylinders (Type II) have a seamless liner of chrome molybdenum steel with carbon fibre wrap. Full composite cylinders (Type IV) consist of a plastic liner also with a carbon fiber wrap. A feature of these cylinders is their favorable weight: volume ratio.

CNG for Buses and Mini-Buses

Steel composite (Type II), or full composite (Type IV) cylinders are recommended for the multicylinder fuel tank units for natural gas powered municipal buses or minibuses. Steel composite cylinders are available in a standard volume range of 60l - 165l. A combination of different sized cylinders can be used to achieve the required total volume. The following example shows a possible unit configuration: Tank unit with 7 cylinders Total volume 1055 7 with 5 cylinders each of 165 l plus 2 cylinders each of 115 l .The cylinders only weigh some 653 kg (without frame). Such units are used for municipal buses and are mounted under a hood on the roof. Due to the low weight, tank units of full composite cylinders are suited for larger storage volumes and thus longer ranges. Full composite tank units consist, according to service requirements, of 5 to 9 cylinders each with 190 l capacity, thus the total volume of these units is between 950 l to 1.710 l, whereby the weight of a 190 l cylinder is only about 52 kg. Both steel composite and full composite cylinders are equipped with melting fuses at each end, thus offering double safety should the fuses need to be activated. These cylinders have a service pressure of 200 bar. Tank units including frame and piping along with all high pressure accessories should be installed with extra care vigilance.

CNG fueling station Components

1. Inlet Gas Line (from your local utility) 2. Inlet Dryer - used to reduce water content in the gas 3. Inlet Filtration - filters gas before compression 4. Gas Compressor - elevates inlet gas pressure from the gas utility to 5,000 psig. 5. Priority/Sequence Panel - allows for temperature compensation of the gas as well as directs gas flow to storage or to vehicle. 6. ASME Storage - stores high pressure gas to be dispensed into vehicles. 7. Gas Dispenser - dispenses gas into the vehicles and measures the amount transferred.

Natural Gas & CNG Technologies

Natural gas primarily consists of methane and is found in oil fields, isolated natural gas fields or coal beds. Methane is also produced by anaerobic decay of non-fossil organic material, which is referred to as biogas. Some sources of biogas include swamps, marshes, landfills, sewage sludge, manure and fermentation of biomass.

Natural Gas Process Diagram

Natural gas processing consists of separating all of the various hydrocarbons and fluids from the pure natural gas, to produce what is known as 'pipeline quality' dry natural gas. Major transportation pipelines usually impose restrictions on the make-up of the natural gas that is allowed into the pipeline. That means that before the natural gas can be transported it must be purified. While the ethane, propane, butane, and pentanes must be removed from natural gas, this does not mean that they are all 'waste products'. In fact, associated hydrocarbons, known as 'natural gas liquids' (NGLs) can be very valuable byproducts of natural gas processing. NGLs include ethane, propane, butane, iso-butane, and natural gasoline. These NGLs are sold separately and have a variety of different uses; including enhancing oil recovery in oil wells, providing raw materials for oil refineries or petrochemical plants, and as sources of energy.

Oil and Condensate Removal from Natural Gas to CNG

In order to process and transport associated dissolved natural gas, it must be separated from the oil in which it is dissolved. This separation of natural gas from oil is most often done using equipment installed at or near the wellhead. The actual process and equipment used to separate oil from natural gas can vary. This is due to the fact that the raw material from different regions may have different compositions and separation requirements. Often natural gas is dissolved in oil underground mainly due to the pressure that the formation is under. When this natural gas and oil is produced, it is possible that it will separate on its own, simply due to decreased pressure. In these cases, separation of oil and gas is relatively easy, and the two hydrocarbons are then processed separately. The most basic type of separator is known as a conventional separator. It consists of a simple closed tank, where the force of gravity separates the heavier liquids like oil, and the lighter gases, like natural gas. In certain instances specialized equipment is necessary to separate oil and natural gas. An example of this is the Low-Temperature Separator (LTX). This is most often used for wells producing high

pressure gas along with light crude oil or condensate. These separators use pressure differentials to cool the wet natural gas and separate the oil and condensate. Wet gas enters the separator, being cooled slightly by a heat exchanger. The gas then travels through a high pressure liquid 'knockout', which serves to remove any liquids into a low-temperature separator. The gas then flows into this low-temperature separator through a choke mechanism, which expands the gas as it enters the separator. This rapid expansion of the gas allows for the lowering of the temperature in the separator. After liquid removal, the dry gas then travels back through the heat exchanger and is warmed by the incoming wet gas. By varying the pressure of the gas in various sections of the separator, it is possible to vary the temperature, which causes the oil and some water to be condensed out of the wet gas stream. This basic pressure-temperature relationship can work in reverse as well, to extract gas from a liquid oil stream.

Water Removal
In addition to separating oil and some condensate from the wet gas stream, it is necessary to remove most of the associated water. Most of the liquid is removed by simple separation methods at or near the wellhead. However, the removal of the water vapor that exists in solution in natural gas requires a more complex treatment. This treatment consists of 'dehydrating' the natural gas, which usually involves one of two processes: either absorption, or adsorption. Absorption occurs when the water vapor is taken out by a dehydrating agent. Adsorption occurs when the water vapor is condensed and collected on the surface

Single Tower Dehydrators & Dryers Water & Moisture

Vapor

Removal

Process

Wet gas from the well enters the centrally located inlet in the lower portion of the vessel where the velocity is reduced and flow direction is changed. In this area, heavier drops of entrained water are separated and fall into the large-capacity claim area. As the gas moves upward through the bed of drying tablets, moisture vapor is absorbed on the surface of the tablets. The water and drying material combine into a solution which falls into the claim area. (Note: Solution will not freeze above -20F.) At the dehydrator outlet, the gas is free of liquid waste and moisture vapor is substantially removed.

Water Vapor Charts for Saturated Natural Gas, type SP and type 10BF Desiccant
This chart shows the water vapor content of 100% saturated Natural Gas at the given temperatures and pressures, measured in pounds of water per million cubic feet.
10 PSIG 80F 75F 70F 65F 60F 58F 56F 54F 52F 50F 45F 40F 35F 985 834 703 593 499 462 430 401 373 347 287 237 195 25 PSIG 626 531 448 378 318 295 274 256 238221 183 151 124 50 PSIG 382 324 273 231 194 180 167 156 145 135 112 93 76 75 PSIG 279 237 200 169 142 132 123 115 107 99 82 68 56 100 PSIG 220 186 157 133 112 104 97 90 84 78 65 54 44 125 PSIG 182 155 131 111 93 86 80 75 70 65 54 45 37 150 PSIG 156 132 112 95 80 74 69 64 60 56 46 38 32 175 PSIG 137 116 98 83 70 65 61 57 53 49 41 34 28 200 PSIG 122 103 88 74 63 58 54 51 47 44 36 30 25 225 PSIG 110 95 80 67 57 53 49 46 43 40 33 27.4 22.7 250 PSIG 101 86 72 61 52 48 45 42 39 36 30 25 20.8 275 PSIG 93 79 67 57 48 45 41 39 36 34 28 23.3 19.3 300 PSIG 86 73 62 53 45 41 39 36 34 31 26 21.7 17.9 350 PSIG 76 64 55 46 39 36 34 32 30 28 23 19.1 15.9 400 PSIG 68 58 49 42 35 33 31 29 27 24.8 20.7 17.2 14.3 500 PSIG 56 48 41 35 29 27 26 23.9 22.3 20.8 17.4 14.5 12.1 750 PSIG 41 35 30 26 21.7 20.2 18.9 17.7 16.5 15.4 13 10.8 9.1 1000 PSIG 33 29 24.4 20.8 17.7 16.6 15.5 14.5 13.6 12.7 10.7 9 7.5

Glycol

Dehydration

The dehydration process as shown in the above figure and as described by Natco, is relatively straight forward. Wet gas contacts dry glycol and the glycol absorbs water from the gas. Wet gas enters the tower at the bottom. Dry glycol flows down the tower from the top, from tray to tray, or through packing material. The dehydrated gas leaves the tower at the top and returns to the pipeline or goes to other processing units. The water rich glycol leaves the tower at the bottom, and goes to the reconcentration system. In the reconcentration system, the wet glycol is filtered of

impurities and heated to 400F. Water escapes as steam, and the purified glycol returns to the tower where it contacts wet gas again.

Solid-Desiccant Dehydration
Solid-desiccant dehydration is the primary form of "drying" natural gas using adsorption, and usually consists of two (or more) adsorption towers, which are filled with a solid desiccant such as silica gel. Wet natural gas is passed through these towers where the water is adsorbed and retained and the gas exits (The reason for using two or more towers is so that as the desiccant in one tower becomes saturated with water, it can be shut down and the desiccant regenerated while another tower is on-line). The natural gas is then sent through a regeneration cycle. In this cycle, dry gas exits the bed, is cooled, and wet gas is diverted back to the wet inlet gas stream.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) can Transport in Big Tube Trailer

Compressed Natural Gas, or CNG, is quite simply gas that has been compressed such that it can be transported in pressure vessels rather than by pipeline as is the traditional method. The major issue with CNG is in the transport portion. In order for natural gas to be economical to use, it must either be compressed or liquefied. Both of these take considerable amounts of energy to accomplish. Natural Gas per unit volume holds less energy compared to other hydrocarbon fuels so there must be more volume. Since natural gas is a gas at STP, in order for it to become a feasible fuel is to compress the large volume into a smaller storage tank without sacrificing energy volume. CNG is one of the answers to using natural gas economically.

Tube Trailer

Tube trailers are available from 2000m3 up to 6000m3 of stored gas at 200bar. With an outstanding Quality the trailers are equipped with burst disk and if required safety valves. Each tube can be separately closed during transport. All tubes come with DOT approval

Storages
Below shows the different models of storage at one, two, or three sectors with horizontal and vertical disposition with condensate liquids drains with variable volumes from 400 to 5000 liters water capacity with control and priority panels

STORAGE MICROSTORAGE The equipment denominated MICROSTORAGE produced by the company SAFE S.r.l. in version 1200, 2400, 3600, is finalized to the storage of the natural gas for automotive and is conceived for public and private refuelling stations microstorage is an equipment mainly constituted by: A structure containing metallic al panels Storage cylinders plus fittings and hoses. Panel with control and protection system.

Parts and Components for CNG Indicator switch

Electronic control module with the following functions: 2-positions CNG/Gasoline switch and monitoring of the current fuel in use using two illuminated led. Monitor of the level of CNG in the tank using 5 illuminated led. The switch is also equipped by an acoustic signal (buzzer) This buzzer is switched on when the system is switching into gasoline mode when a low level of CNG pressure is detected or a fault into CNG system occurs.

Gas Filter
This is located between the regulator and the injector rail and it is used to filter the gaseous-state LPG. The filter contains a cartridge that guarantees 80-m. filtering capacity. Maximum operating pressure is 250 kPa.

Regulator
NG2-2 - This is a compensated, two-stage diaphragm type regulator, with water-gas heat exchanger, filter, gas solenoid valve and safety valve. It is calibrated for a supply pressure that is 2 bar (200 kPa) above the pressure of the intake manifold. The nominal flow rate is 30 Kg. / h. NG1 - This is a compensated, one-stage diaphragm type regulator, with water-gas heat exchanger, filter, gas solenoid valve and safety valve. It is calibrated for a supply pressure that is 2 bar (200 kPa) above the pressure of the intake manifold. The maximum flow rate is 22 Kg. / h.

Injector Rail
The CNG fuel stored in the rail is injected by CNG injectors into the intake manifold. The injectors are driven by the CNG ECU. The rail allows to install 2, 3 or 4 injectors in order to cover the entire range of possible applications. CNG pressure and CNG temperature are measured into the injector rail. The injectors are driven with a peak and hold actuation. Maximum operating pressure is 250 kPa.

CNG MIXER SYSTEM REGULATOR TN 1 / TN 1 SIC

Natural gas comes out of the tank through the tank valve and goes to the engine compartment through a high-pressure pipe which is also connected to the refuelling system. The engine compartment contains the regulator where the pressure of the natural gas is reduced from 220 bar to the engine supply pressure. From the regulator the natural gas goes to the air/fuel mixer which, located on the intake manifold, meters the flow of gas according to the requirement of the engine (represented by vacuum generated in the mixing devices) so as to ensure optimum carburation in terms of driving, consumption and emissions. The high-pressure solenoid valve allows gas to flow through only when the engine is running and the switch is in the gas position. The switch/gauge mod. 096, besides its other functions, allows starting always on petrol automatically passing over to gas by means of the Start-Petrol solenoid valve and allows the user to select the desired fuel at any time, displaying the level of natural gas in the tank. During gas operation, the electronic emulator

(or the injectors exclusion wiring) cuts off the flow of petrol to the engine, whereas during petrol operation the flow of natural gas to the engine is cut off by the high-pressure solenoid valve.

REGULATOR TN 1
Electronic control device to reduce the natural gas pressure allowing a regular flow of gas every time the engine requires it. It is equipped with three natural gas reduction stages that allow stability at both high and low pressures and a high-pressure solenoid valve upstream from the first stage. The absorption of heat, taken from parts of the regulator, heated with the liquid of the engine cooling circuit, prevents the natural gas freezing during the fall in pressure phase. The flow of gas necessary for engine idling is obtained throught the main gas pipe thanks to the vacuum generated by the engine. It includes an electronic starting device with a built-in safety system that trips and shuts off the gas solenoid valves if the engine is switched off or stalls. Regulator type: 3 stages with electronic starting device and vacuum controlled idling at negative pressure Use: automotive (suitable for vehicles with catalytic converter, injection, carburettor and turbocharger) Type of fuel: CNG (compressed natural gas) Heating: engine cooling circuit liquid Test pressure: 300 bar Inlet pressure: 220 bar First stage adjustment pressure: 4 bar Second stage adjustment pressure: 1.5 bar Power supply: 12 V DC

High-pressure solenoid valve coil power capacity: 20W Idling solenoid valve coil power capacity: 14W Versions: TN 1/B (standard): up to 100 kW TN 1 (oversize): from 100 kW to 146 kW TN 2 C (super oversize): from 146 kW to 169 kW TN 2 C/S: from 169 kW to 193 kW TN 3 : over 193 kW TN 1/B Turbo: for turbo-charger engines up to 154 kW

SWITCH/GAUGE MOD. 096M - 096M ECO

An electronic control module whose main functions are: Gas/petrol selector with 2 positions led gauge indicates the fuel being used; Petrol starting automatically passing over to gas on deceleration with overlapping; Display of the level of gas in the tank by means of 5 led; Electronic safety device that cuts off supply to the natural gas solenoid valves if the engine stalls.

INJECTORS EMULATORS
During gas operation, these electronic devices cut off the flow of petrol on cars equipped with electronic injection and emulate the signal of the injectors or other sensors. The emulator model for each car varies depending on the type of injection system involved in the conversion.

ELECTRONIC SPARK ADVANCE CONTROLS

These devices change the engine spark advance when running on natural gas and restore the original spark advance every time you switch on to petrol supply. The increase in spark advance during the higher octane gas operation improves engine performance.

CNG MIXER SYSTEM REGULATOR TN 1 / TN 1 SIC START-PETROL SOLENOID VALVE

This device positioned between the regulator gas outlet and the mixer cuts off the flow of LPG during starting and petrol operation. Available in normal and oversize version, both equipped with a carburetion adjustment register

CNG MIXER SYSTEM REGULATOR TN 1 / TN 1 SIC

The End Thank You