By Henry Uche
Following the introduction of cheaper, cleaner, and safer natural gas by the Federal Government to ameliorate the pains resulting from the withdrawal of fuel subsidy, an expert has outlined design considerations and precautions for safely converting petrol/diesel vehicles to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
The Executive Director, Media & Digital Skills Centre Nigeria, Engr. Ajibola Abiola, PhD, gave the guidelines in a chat with journalists in Lagos.
Abiola advised car owners to first check to ensure that the vehicle they want to convert has basic technical characteristics that will make it compatible with CNG system.
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He advised that the engine modification should be done carefully and an upgrade of engine components like pistons, cylinder head should be carried out to withstand CNG’s higher octane rating.
The former Director, National Broadcast Academy, Ikeja, advised car owners to install a CNG-specific fuel system, including tank, regulator, and fuel injectors. After which the electrical system should be enhanced to support CNG components (e.g., fuel computer, solenoids).
“After following the above steps, you should allocate space for CNG tank, fuel lines, and other components; ensure an even weight distribution to maintain vehicle stability” he said.
On Safety Precautions; he added: CNG tank placement: One needs to install tank in a protected area, away from heat sources and potential impact zones. L. Tank certification, we should ensure tank meets international standards (e.g., ISO 11439).
“On fuel line protection: we must use protective sleeves and routing to prevent damage. On leak detection, we should install leak detection system to alert driver of potential issues”
He stressed that electrical safety is paramount, hence the need to ensure proper electrical connections and insulation.
At this point, a pressure relief valve should be installed to prevent over-pressurisation, consider installing fire suppression system, schedule regular inspections and maintenance, educate driver on CNG-specific safety procedures and obtain certification from authorised agencies (e.g., EPA, ISO).
Additional Requirements are: CNG fuel system certification; Vehicle inspection and testing; documentation (e.g., conversion certificate, owner’s manual); Warranty and liability considerations and Insurance coverage update.
Other key components worthy of careful note, according to him, are: CNG tank (Type 1, 2, 3, or 4), fuel regulator, fuel injectors, fuel computer solenoids, pressure gauge, leak detection system, electrical harness, and mounting hardware.
The Conversion Process should cover Pre-conversion inspection, design and planning, Component installation, System integration, Testing and inspection, Certification and Documentation.
Abiola listed some environmental benefits of converting a vehicle to run on CNG, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions (20-30 percent less than gasoline), lower carbon monoxide emissions (70-90 percent reduction, fewer nitrogen oxide emissions (50-70 percent reduction), and less particulate matter emissions.
On the economic benefits, he added, “CNG is typically 30-50 percent cheaper than gasoline, increased fuel efficiency, a 10-20 percent improvement, leads to longer engine life (CNG is cleaner-burning), and it has reduced maintenance costs.
“On energy security benefits, it has a reduced dependence on foreign oil, utilization of domestic natural gas resources and a diversified energy portfolio. Its operational benefits are: Smooth, quiet operation, Consistent performance and Wide range of compatible vehicles”
Available government incentives are: Tax credits for CNG conversions, grants for alternative fuel infrastructure, rebates for CNG vehicle purchases.
Other Benefits are: Improved public image (environmentally friendly), enhanced corporate social responsibility and potential for priority parking/access.