Difference Between CNG And LPG
In modern transportation, an alternative fuel is best way to reduce carbon emissions. The alternative fuels that are already widely used are CNG and LPG. It is common knowledge that vehicles powered by alternative fuels are good for the environment.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between CNG and LPG:
CNG
Compressed natural gas (or CNG) is an environment-friendly alternative to gasoline or diesel fuel. It is composed of methane (CH4) and extracted from natural gas reservoirs.
It is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to traditional gasoline or diesel and produces lower levels of pollutants like carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
CNG is produced by compressing natural gas to less than 1% of its volume at standard atmospheric pressure. It’s a great alternative for both individual consumers and fleet operators aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and operating costs.
LPG
Liquefied petroleum gas (or LPG) is a versatile alternative fuel composed primarily of propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10). It is obtained from refining crude oil or extracting natural gas. LPG is compressed and stored in a liquid form under pressure to make it safe for storage and transportation.
It’s used in a variety of applications, such as cooking, refrigeration, industrial processing, and in automobiles. LPG provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional gasoline or diesel.
LPG is a cleaner and more sustainable energy option compared to conventional fuels.
Difference between CNG and LPG
Composition
CNG primarily consists of methane (CH4), which is the simplest hydrocarbon and the primary component of natural gas. LPG, on the other hand, is a mixture of propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10). They are hydrocarbons with slightly larger molecular structures compared to methane.
State of Matter
CNG is stored and transported as a gas in high-pressure, cylindrical-shaped containers. These containers are made of steel, aluminum, or other composite materials. LPG gas is stored in pressure vessels in a well-ventilated place, away from sources of heat and ignition. The liquid state is achieved by applying moderate pressure, which allows for safe storage and transportation in small volumes.
Storage Volume
CNG requires larger storage volumes due to the need to store the gas under high pressure to maintain its compressed state. LPG, on the contrary, requires smaller storage volumes as it is stored in liquid form under moderate pressure, which allows for more compact storage.
Source
CNG is sourced from natural gas reservoirs beneath the Earth’s surface. They are typically obtained from natural gas wells, bed methane wells, and oil wells. LPG, however, comes from two main sources. It is either obtained from crude oil refining or processing natural gas. During these processes, propane and butane are separated from the raw materials.
Applications
CNG is used as an alternative fuel in vehicles, particularly compressed natural gas vehicles (CNGVs). It helps save costs and reduces carbon emissions compared to conventional fuels. LPG, on the other hand, is used in a myriad of applications, such as vehicles, residential heating, agricultural drying, cooking, powder coating, metal melting, and other industrial processes.
CNG vs. LPG: Comparison Chart
Summary
Both CNG and LPG are odorless gases and excellent eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. CNG is comparatively lighter than LPG. This is probably why LPG is used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The applications of CNG, however, are limited; it’s mainly used as a fuel in vehicles.
FAQs
Which is better fuel, LPG or CNG?
CNG is often used in vehicles due to its lower emissions, while LPG is used for cooking, heating, and in vehicles. So, LPG is more versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. However, the better fuel depends on the intended use.
What is the difference between CNG, LPG, and LNG?
CNG is a compressed gas, LPG is a liquid under moderate pressure, and LNG is a super-cooled liquid. Each has distinct applications based on its properties and uses.
Are natural gas and CNG the same?
Natural gas is a broader term that includes various gases found naturally, while CNG specifically refers to compressed natural gas, which is mainly composed of methane.
Is CNG highly flammable?
CNG is less likely to auto-ignite because it is lighter than air and disperses quickly in the atmosphere, which reduces the risk of accumulation.
Why LNG is not used for cooking?
LNG is not typically used for cooking due to the need for specialized storage and handling equipment. Rather, it’s more suitable for large-scale industrial and transportation applications.
Why use LNG instead of LPG?
LNG is often preferred for long-distance transportation due to its higher energy density and lower storage volume. LPG, being versatile, is used in cooking, heating, and smaller-scale transportation.
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References :
[0]Biernat, Krzysztof. Alternative Fuels: Technical and Environmental Conditions. IntechOpen, 2016.
[1]Subic, Aleksandar, et al. Sustainable Automotive Technologies 2012: Proceedings of the 4th International Conference. Springer, 2012.
[2]Durbin, Enoch. Methane: Fuel for the Future. Springer, 2012.
[3]Image credit: https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEb_iHPd_M-cilinder-with-mixed-gases-tanks-with-compressed-gas-for-industry-liquefied-oxygen-production-factory/
[4]Image credit: https://www.canva.com/photos/MADWKXJIzdM-multi-colored-and-different-sized-gas-cylinders-on-the-street-bottles-with-liquefied-petroleum-gas/
its very interesting to know about CNG & LPG ,also their classification
It is very good information and explanation. 🙂
Impressed.
Hi in maharashtra the availability of cng is in mumbai and pune so i jst wanna know when should it will be available in rest of maharashtra cities like karad,satara,kolhapur,ratnagiri,nashik,goa…………..
Very soon
it’s good.
Give some more information
It is very interesting fact about LPG &CNG. It helps to make pollution free india…
Thanks for your superb information
It is very important for fresher engineering student.