The production of CNG begins with the extraction of natural gas from underground reservoirs. Natural gas is found in deep underground rock formations or associated with other hydrocarbon reservoirs in coal beds and shale formations. The extraction process involves drilling wells and using various techniques to bring the gas to the surface.
Once extracted, natural gas is processed to remove impurities and by-products, such as water vapor, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and other hydrocarbons. This processing typically involves several steps:
After processing, natural gas is compressed to high pressures (typically 200-250 bar or 2,900-3,600 psi) to reduce its volume for storage and transportation. This is done using industrial-grade compressors designed to handle high pressures and maintain the purity of the gas.
CNG is stored in high-pressure cylinders or tanks, which can be stationary (fixed at a fueling station or facility) or mobile (onboard vehicles). The storage methods include:
Storage of CNG requires adherence to strict safety standards and regulations to prevent leaks and ensure the safety of personnel and the public. Key safety measures include:
The distribution of CNG to clients involves a well-developed infrastructure, including pipelines, compressors, and fueling stations. The primary components are:
In addition to pipelines, CNG can be transported using mobile storage units, such as tube trailers and ISO containers. These methods are useful for areas not served by pipelines or for emergency supplies:
The distribution of CNG to clients includes several steps to ensure a continuous and reliable supply: