Natural Gas Engine Safety

Natural gas powered engines meet all federal safety guidelines.

The Department of Energy states that compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles are as safe as regular fuel powered vehicles. In addition to meeting federal motor vehicle safety standards, CNG-powered vehicles have additional safety features built in.

Fuel Safety Features

Because CNG is lighter than air, it will not puddle like gas or diesel. If there is a leak, it will simply evaporate. CNG does not have a noticeable smell. Because of this, a distinctively noxious odorant is added to all CNG as an alert to leakage.

Tank Safety Features

The greatest danger in CNG-powered vehicles rests with the storage tank. If a large enough spark is created during rupture or the rupture site is exposed to an open flame, the fuel will ignite. As a result, CNG tank cylinders are significantly thicker and stronger than regular fuel tanks. CNG tanks must be able to withstand a 30-caliber bullet penetration without rupture and being thrown into a bonfire. CNG tank cylinders must be inspected every three years or 36,000 miles and have a lifetime ranging from 15 years to 25 years.

Refueling Safety Features

Home refueling compressors are hooked into the household's natural gas line and have safety features built in to prevent the unit from operating if it is not properly connected and automatically shuts it down if a leak is detected.

References

• ConsumerReports.com: Compressed Natural Gas
• ConsumerReports.com: The Natural-Gas Alternative
• How Safe are Natural Gas Vehicles?