Any special needs to convert aircompressor to CNG

[ccgas]

I found some military surplus compessors rated to 4500 psi and wondered if anyone has converted any to CNG?

[freedml]

Re: Any special needs to convert aircompressor to CNG

The mechanical compressor itself is probably usable, but all the electrical parts will be a nightmare to try to explosion-proof.

[Idarusskie]

Re: Any special needs to convert aircompressor to CNG

The difference between a regular switch and an explosion proof switch in price can be quite striking. The motor will also have to be explosion proof. Be very careful and get your life insurance paid up. Your widow will appreciate it. Unless you underhand what you are doing absolutely then do not try it. You may ask the gas company or compressor company if they would be able to do it. who knows maybe there is a way to send it to the factory or somehting. If they will not do it then don't you try it.

[cngmike]

Re: Any special needs to convert aircompressor to CNG

Most high pressure Navy compressors I've seen are RIX compressors. You can save some money by building an off skid control panel but it is an expensive under taking any way you slice it. You would want to check with the compressor Mfg. as to other modifications that will need to be made. IE different rings or seals. These compressors were designed around ambient pressure inlet so the highest inlet you will be able to run would probably around 7" of water column. Most commercial CNG compressors run from 5 PSI. to 200 PSI. I had a RIX compressor that had a 15 to 30 PSI inlet that put out 25 to 40 CFPM. The parts were expensive because all part had to be manufactured. The control panel sucked but it did have the best interstage cooling I've seen.

[ccgas]

Re: Any special needs to convert aircompressor to CNG

Thanks i KNOW ABOUT THE ELECTRICAL, JUST WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT COMPRESOR NEEDS. THESE ARE NITROGEN COMPESSORS CAPABLE OF HIGH INLET PRESSER, MODEL MC1A,2MC1A,2MC11,MC11 AND 4MB-1 DAVEY COMPRESSORS