FAQ
FAQ
What is CNG ?
CNG stands for Compressed Natural Gas. It is a gaseous fuel and is a mixture of hydrocarbons, main methane in the range of 95%. Due to its low density, it is compressed to a pressure of 200 bar to enhance the vehicle onboard storage capacity.
Is CNG Safe ?
Yes, it is safe. The properties of CNG make it a safe fuel. It is lighter than air, and hence in case of leakage, it disperses into the atmosphere rapidly.
Which type of vehicles can be converted into CNG ?
All spark-ignited engines can be converted to CNG, for which a specially designed conversion kit is required for the conversion process. The kit consists of a cylinder to be fixed in the boot of the car and other equipment’s to allow gas flow into the engine.
Can a car, which is fitted with CNG kit, run on petrol after its CNG gets over ?
Yes, after conversion to CNG the vehicle can run on petrol whenever desired simply by flicking a switch on the dashboard.
What is the cost of converting a vehicle to a CNG-friendly one ?
The cost of converting a vehicle to CNG depends on the type of vehicle and CNG kit. Presently, the cost of conversion ranges between Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 50,000 (approximately).
What is the capacity of a cylinder, and mileage from one fill? How does one get to know the quantity of CNG left in the cylinder?
A cylinder with a 60-liter water-carrying capacity is capable of carrying approximately 8 kg of CNG. This is equivalent to 12 liters of petrol and will allow a run of about 150-160 km. for a medium-sized 1200 CC car. An electronic switch is fitted on the dashboard which is part of the conversion kit that indicates the quantity of CNG left in the cylinder.
Will my fuel expenses reduce after conversion to CNG?
Yes, the fuel bill on the basis of average running of vehicle reduces substantially when compared to other conventional fuels. Price of CNG is lesser than other fuels and also it enhances the mileage of your vehicle, making it the most economical fuel.
Will I lose my boot space if I convert my car to CNG?
In case of Sedan vehicles, the vehicle owners lose about one third of their boot space when a car is converted to CNG. But in case of Hatch back the boot space is almost taken by CNG Cylinder.
Does CNG have any harmful effect on the engine?
Owing to CNG’s distinct features, it does not contaminate or dilute crankcase oil, giving a new lease of life to the engine. The absence of any lead content in CNG helps avoid lead fouling of plugs, thereby enhancing plug life. As CNG enters the engine in the form of a gas (and not as a spray or mist like other fuels), no carbon is generated during the combustion of CNG reducing the chances of wear and tear.
Is CNG environmentally friendlier than any other fuel?
Yes, it is. As CNG mainly consists of methane which is the simplest hydrocarbon, it is a much cleaner and efficient fuel. The use of CNG significantly reduces harmful exhaust gas emissions like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide which causes harmful diseases like cancer, asthma etc. CNG also helps in reducing the effects of global warming.
Does CNG kit require servicing ?
CNG kit is safe and simple. It gives years of trouble free operation. It doesn’t require frequent servicing. Just as for all other fuels, it is advised to have routine services. An authorized person should be consulted for service. As per Gas Cylinder Rules, 1981, the cylinder should undergo hydro-stretch testing every 3 years to check pressure tolerance.