NGK lists the main measures to prevent accidents with CNG cars

Expert Hiromori Mori provides important tips for gas vehicle drivers to implement on a day-to-day and cultivate safety and social and environmental responsibility

São Paulo, September 2022 - Data from the National Association of Inspection Bodies (Anis) and the Union of Vehicle Inspection Companies of the State of São Paulo (Sivesp) referring to the second half of 2021 show that almost 80% of vehicles fueled with vehicular natural gas (CNG) were irregular. This index reveals that the vast majority of drivers do not even perform the first vehicle inspection, which is mandatory in the installation of the cylinder - factor that directly interferes with accidents involving vehicles with gas systems.

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Faced with this scenario, Hiromori Mori, NGK Technical Assistance Consultant, Japanese multinational specialist in spark plugs and ignition cables, highlights some points of attention indispensable for drivers of cars with CNG. check out:

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Vehicle injection system and oils

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One of the advantages of the gas system is the low level of waste generated in the burning of fuel, causing a lower rate of engine carbonization and candles, and decreasing contamination of lubricating oil and spark plugs. Despite the benefit, this action does not guarantee the durability of the product. "That's why, it is important to carry out the maintenance of the car as recommended by the manufacturer of the engine or vehicle. For this review, the indicated is to seek professionals specialized in the maintenance and installation of gas equipment, who have more experience and equipment necessary for the maintenance of these vehicles, which have some distinct characteristics of similar vehicles without this adaptation", advises Mori.

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The indirect electronic injection system, in the intake collector, the correct thing is to start the vehicle on the liquid fuel and after heating the engine, direct to the use of gas. Before turning off the vehicle, the driver must return to the liquid fuel for the system to adapt again to the liquid fuel, causing the system to return to the original parameters and preventing the aging of liquid fuel. As regards direct injection, there are application-specific kits that allow the engine to work in conjunction with both fuels, avoiding damage to the original injection system.

Warning for wear on spark plugs

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One of the great advantages of gas cars is the savings generated by using this fuel. For the implementation of the system it is necessary to make an adjustment in the engine so that it can work with the liquid fuel and/or the gas. As the engine was not built specifically to work this way, the yield is slightly lower than in the liquid fuel, when compared to engines that work exclusively with gas.

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The disadvantage is that this mix is poorer when compared to the original fuel, causes increased wear on spark plugs, adjustment is required in the recommendation of the exchange of components. "Because it is a more severe use of the engine, the general indication is to cut the maintenance plan in half", suggests Mori. "The use of CNG requires a gas kit adjustment with a good injection calibration. This care prevents damage to the valve system, mainly the exhaust ones, who suffer greater influence of temperature. ”

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Main precautions for drivers of severe conditions

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Gas vehicles must be maintained abbreviated, mainly those used for individual transport, such as taxis and cars app and delivery. "These conditions are classified as of severe use, which requires a more detailed maintenance of the vehicle carried out by specialized professionals", explains the consultant.

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Although the system generates fuel economy, the way the driver uses the vehicle directly interferes with this issue. Good driving practices, how to avoid very sudden accelerations and speeds incompatible with the, should be included in the day-to-day life of those who drive. Another key care is the maintenance of: keep the car in good condition, with calibrated and aligned tires, also generates savings for the pockets of drivers.

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Driver of less powerful cars should avoid the CNG system

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The CNG kit is an adaptation performed on the engine that, when used, results in loss of income. In this context, engines with very small displacement or very low power should be avoided. Another aspect observed is the relief of the region in which the driver lives. Flat cities don't usually offer big problems, however, in regions with a high number of saws it is recommended to install the system only in more powerful engines.

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Stay tuned when fueling the vehicle

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"For vehicles equipped with original flex fuel systems, it is recommended to fix a liquid fuel, whether it's gasoline or ethanol", alert Mori. "With the liquid fuel fixed, one is due to, So, adjust the gas kit. If the user wishes to replace the liquid fuel, resetting the gas kit will be required."

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According to Mori, by following these tips it is possible to take advantage of the gas car in a safer and more economical way. "Together with the benefits generated by the practicality of the system comes the social and environmental responsibility to keep the car in its best conditions", finalizes the consultant of NGK Brazil.

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As a last recommendation, Mori advises the user to follow the specific inspection and homologation plans of the gas vehicles. "Some inspections, such as cylinder testing and homologation of the installation, are mandatory for the legalization of the kit. On the other, the maintenance of the reducer, gas injectors, supply valves and cylinder depend on the quality of gas and filling stations", finalizes the consultant.