CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) works by storing natural gas at high pressure in a fuel tank, then reducing that pressure before injecting it into the engine for combustion. Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. CNG Storage: High-Pressure Fuel Tank
- Natural gas is compressed and stored in a fuel tank, often cylindrical in shape and typically located in the vehicle's trunk or undercarriage. These tanks are designed to withstand very high pressures (e.g., 3,000-3,600 psi).
2. Fuel Lines: Transporting the Gas
- High-pressure fuel lines safely transport the CNG from the fuel tank towards the engine compartment. These lines are robust and designed to prevent leaks.
3. Pressure Regulator: Reducing the Pressure
- A pressure regulator is a crucial component. Its job is to reduce the high pressure of the gas from the tank to a lower, more manageable pressure that's compatible with the engine's fuel injection system. This prevents damage and ensures efficient combustion.
4. Fuel Injection: Delivering Fuel to the Engine
- The pressure-regulated CNG is then fed into the engine's fuel injection system. This system precisely meters and injects the CNG into the engine's cylinders, mixing it with air for combustion. CNG fuel injectors are specifically designed to handle gaseous fuels.
5. Combustion: Generating Power
- The CNG and air mixture is ignited in the engine's cylinders, producing combustion. This combustion process generates the power that drives the vehicle, similar to gasoline engines.
In summary, CNG vehicles have a system that safely stores high-pressure natural gas, reduces the pressure to a usable level, and injects the gas into the engine for combustion, thus providing a cleaner-burning alternative to gasoline.
