A Comparative Study of CNG Production Methods for a 1750 DEG / Day Vehicle Fleet

Abstract

Three approaches to the production of compressed natural gas (CNC) for a 3500 Nm(3)/day [1750 diesel equivalent gallon (DEG/day)] transit bus fleet were compared using a life cycle cost analysis approach. Three currently available methods of CNG production were compared. The analysis considered direct compression of pipeline natural gas and the compression and vaporization of liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplied by either tanker truck or locally produced with a small-scale liquefier. Considered contributions to the cost of CNG production included equipment capital costs, maintenance costs, operating costs, and feedstock price. CNG production with the use of a local liquefier resulted in the lowest total cost of fuel production.