Precautions Every CNG Driver Must Take

CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) cars make a good choice for economical and environmentally friendly fuel use. Such cars work by storing natural gas under high pressure and delivering it to the engine through a specialised system. While it is generally safe and reliable, understanding how this fuel type works and taking the right precautions makes your driving experience more seamless and confident. Follow this simple guide to learn about the critical precautions for CNG car drivers.

In a CNG fuel system, CNG is mixed with air and pushed into the cylinder, which undergoes combustion. Despite being an odourless gas, leakages are easily identifiable with a smell added to CNG.

Being lighter than air, weighing only 0.6 times the air molecule, the gas spreads quickly without concentrating in one area in the event of a leak. This, in turn, reduces the risk of explosion.

CNG tanks are also tested with the highest standards to withstand high pressures. You can either get a vehicle with built-in CNG cylinders or have an authorised kit installed.

You can take these steps before each drive to ensure the CNG fuel system is operating normally:

• Limit the use of mobile phones, smoke, matchboxes, and other combustibles outside the CNG station.

• Check the fuel level before using the CNG car to avoid pressure on the valves.

• Make a note to not smoke while sitting in the car.

• Stay alert for unusual smells to detect leaks.

• Take a quick glance at the dashboard to check if the fuel system needs attention.

• Ensure the boot area is clear to ensure proper airflow for the CNG system.

• Notice how the engine responds after starting the vehicle to understand the efficiency of the fuel system.

• Start the car on petrol first and switch to CNG once the engine is warmed up. This keeps the engine properly lubricated.

• Confirm that you have the Registration Certificate (RC), insurance policy, driver’s license, etc., with you to comply with the officials when needed.

• Make sure you take out the vehicle parked in a shaded area to protect the gas inside the cylinder from expanding.

   

When creating a list of precautions for CNG car drivers, the following should be kept in mind in regard to the cylinder: 

• Ensure the cylinder fitted to your CNG vehicle is compliant with the Gas Cylinder Rules, 2016.

• The cylinder must align with the make and model of your CNG car.

• You must get a CNG Cylinder Test Certificate to certify that it meets the approved standards.

• Regularly check the CNG fuel cylinder for leakage.

• Regularly service the CNG kit and cylinder every few years at an authorised service centre.

• Mandatorily prioritise hydro-testing every three years per the Gas Cylinder rules, 2004. It is a safety assurance measure where the structural integrity of the CNG vehicle is examined.

• Ensure the cylinder pressure doesn’t exceed the standard limits, to prevent leakages.

• Maintain the original colour of the CNG cylinder to adhere to the safety rules.

• The compliance plate fixed to the CNG cylinder must have verifiable details like the vehicle number, chassis number, CNG cylinder identification number, and installation and testing information.

To ensure the CNG is transported without any leaks or disruption to the cylinder or the fuel injection system, inspect the piping. Check for cracks and wear during routine inspections. If anything appears unusual, schedule a CNG fuel system inspection at the earliest.  

Here are some of the CNG precautions for car drivers to follow before every refuel:

• Switch off the engine before the technician refuels the CNG. This step protects your car’s engine from igniting any sparks.

• During the summer, refill only two-thirds of the CNG tank to protect the high temperatures from increasing the pressure in the tank.

• Step out of the car, if required during the refuelling process, and attend to the operator’s instructions.

   

As the possibility of motor oil contamination is limited with CNG-fuelled vehicles, they enjoy a longer lifespan. Thus, you can space out the servicing visits for longer intervals.

When you do schedule an inspection, follow these recommended precautions for CNG car drivers:

• Focus on a comprehensive inspection of the CNG kit, hoses, valves, and signs of leakages and wear.

• Always service through an authorised centre that follows the legal compliance for CNG vehicles.

• Get the spark plug of the CNG replaced with a CNG-compatible one when you notice any wear.  

• Get the CNG tank inspected for signs of damage or cracking. Make sure to switch the tank after its expiry date.

• Replace the CNG filter regularly to reduce clogging.

Some situations call for a calculated immediate action. Follow these emergency protocols to make the right decision for CNG cars:

When you suspect a gas leak:

• Switch off the engine immediately and move the vehicle to a ventilated area.

• Turn off the manual shut-off valve on the CNG kits to stop the leakage.

• Call a trained CNG kit retrofitter to inspect the leakage.

In case of vehicle crash/damage: 

• Turn the ignition off immediately.

• Shut the main CNG valve off.

• Call emergency services to repair the damage and specify the vehicle details.

During a fire:

• Step aside from the vehicle.

• Seek the help of professional fire extinguishing experts.

• Turn off the cylinder valve, if possible, to control the gas leakage.

To deal with all these emergencies, keep the relevant contact numbers for each case handy, with the necessary documents required to help with the repairs.

Following the proper CNG car driving precautions helps you in the following ways:

• Maintains System Efficiency - When you ensure the CNG system is used as per the recommended standards, you ensure the engine components run smoothly. Staying cautious also helps identify any issues early.

• Creates a Safer Driving Experience - A few checks before every drive and periodic servicing give you peace of mind. As you’ve taken the necessary steps, you can rest assured about your and your family’s safety.

• Ensures Compliance with Legal Standards - Once you use the authorised components and meet the CNG conversion standards as recommended under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, you stay on the right side of the law. It helps you avoid possible penalties and inconvenience.

• Addresses Key Susceptible Risks - Like any fuel system, routine attention is key to identifying problems early. With regular maintenance and an emergency protocol in place, you can address the risks with preparation. It’s a crucial part of preventive care for the unexpected conditions on roads.

• Helps Meet Safe Refuelling Standards - The precautions for CNG car drivers extend to refuelling as well as the proper CNG engine installation. Being familiar with the right refuelling practices ensures your CNG system is protected.

Using a CNG car comes with perks that you can optimally leverage with precautionary measures. Incorporate the practices discussed below as habits in your car maintenance. This way, you can get accustomed to them easily. Along with these standard precautions, vehicle protection also involves car insurance. Consider SBI General Insurance to get a solid financial safety net to cushion from unexpected mishaps.

Disclaimer: This blog offers general information on car insurance for educational purposes only. Content reflects data at time of publication and may not accurately reflect current premiums, terms, or regulations. 

How often should CNG cylinders be inspected?

CNG cylinders should get inspected during routine servicing and hydro-testing done every three years. Smaller inspections can be carried out more frequently. 

Can CNG cars be driven in high-temperature regions?

Yes, you can drive CNG cars in high-temperature regions. However, it is advisable to park them in a shaded area and avoid overfilling the tank during extreme heat.

Are there legal restrictions on CNG conversions?

Yes, the legal restrictions primarily pertain to the authorised installation of the CNG kit as per the government safety standards through certified retrofitters.

Can CNG refuelling cause engine damage?

No, refuelling does not damage the engine if you take the precaution to switch off the engine and allow trained attendants to handle the refuelling process.

Why do CNG valves need periodic replacement?

A CNG valve can go through wear and tear over time, which can affect the flow of gas in the fuel system. Hence, regular inspection and replacement are recommended for safe operation.