PSI Technologies, a Californian company, has introduced to the market an on-the-road CNG fill kit to extend range in an emergency. The aptly named “eCNG” kit uses a small DOT approved NGV cylinder manufactred by SCI/Worthington Industries, valves and hoses from Parker Hannifin, and an NGV-2 receptacle (OPW) for filling the product package at all suitable CNG stations.
The kit comprises:
- A small, 550 cu in. (9.0m3) water volume, high pressure, DOT approved NGV cylinder (SCI/Worthington Industries) that can be filled to 3600 psi (248 bar)
- Capacity of 93.8 scf (2.65m3) or 0.65 DGE (2.46 DLE) or .74 GGE (2.8 GLE)
- An NGV-2 receptacle (OPW) for filling the product package at all suitable CNG stations for use in the field
- An NGV-2 nozzle “system” (OPW) so the product package can be connected to a vehicle to supply emergency fuel. The “system” consists of two nozzles at either end of a 5′ long hose. One nozzle can be attached to the receptacle on the eCNG package and the other hose/nozzle end connects to the NGV.
- A system of valves and hoses (Parker) to control flow and provide venting
- A pressure gauge to indicate system pressure
- A Pressure Relief Device (PRD) to provide emergency discharge in the event of over-pressurization
- A carrying case (Pelican Case) to both protect the package and store the equipment, with automatic venting to prevent pressure buildup inside
- Operations manual with Special Permit
- Required DOT hazardous materials markings
The kit’s overall dimensions are 32″ long x 20″ wide x 13″ deep (81.3 cm x 50.8 cm x 33.0 cm). Tare weight is 46.5 lbs (21.1 kgs) and gross weight is 50.4 lbs (22.86 kgs).
eCNG can be filled at any authorized CNG station that can supply 3600 (250 bar) fuel via the NGV-2 nozzle. Once filled, the equipment package can be secured in its protective transportation case, essential to prevent unwanted damage to the cylinder which may compromise its integrity.
Once on site, eCNG can be connected to an empty vehicle, via its 5′ long high pressure hose and nozzle “system”, and when connected properly to an NGV, valves can be opened so the natural gas can flow into an empty, DOT approved cylinder. Fueling is simply accomplished via a “cascade method”, that is, using the high pressure from the eCNG package to provide flow to the low pressure of the empty NGV tank until pressure is equalised.
The eCNG package can be completely vented, if necessary, for maintenance, repair and service. The cylinder requires retesting every 5 years and can be performed by PSI or any other approved hydrostatic testing facility.
(Source: PSI Technologies)
