What is Hydrogen-Enriched Compressed Natural Gas (HCNG)?
 HCNG
is a blend of natural gas and hydrogen. Tests show that a blend of approximately 20% hydrogen and 80% CNG by volume can reduce
emissions of nitrogen oxides by 30 to 50% without affecting the performance and efficiency of a natural gas engine.
In 2003, Cummins Westport worked with Westport Innovations and SunLine Transit Agency of California to test and develop this new
and exciting demonstration technology. A Cummins Westport B Gas Plus engine was
re-calibrated for 20% H2, 80% CNG without fuel economy or performance trade-off.
There are many benefits to studying and developing the HCNG technology:
- existing CNG fueling facilities can be used to develop the hydrogen infrastructure and related codes and standards for
light-duty vehicles.
- natural gas and HCNG come from predominantly domestic supplies thereby lessening dependence on imported oil in the high fuel
use (heavy-duty) applications.
- natural gas and hydrogen blended fuels provides excellent emissions benefits today and pave the road for the use of hydrogen
vehicles in the future.
|
|
