Clean Energy Fuels Corp., a manufacturer of non-lubricated compressed natural gas (CNG) compressors, has introduced what the company is calling the most advanced, heavy-duty, non-lubricated compressor in the natural gas fueling market.
The CleanCNG, developed by engineers at Clean Energy’s subsidiary Clean Energy Compression in Chilliwack, British Columbia, incorporates improvements in compressor design and engineering that result in ultra-low vibration and noise, according to Clean Energy.
Specifically, the new compressor features the following:
- Standardized and modular construction – Streamlined modular engineering improves initial specification and cost-effectiveness, enabling quicker delivery time and more reliable operation with extended service intervals. Specifically designed for expansion, the CleanCNG is available in 150 HP–300 HP configurations.
- Ultra-low vibration and noise – Operating at 75 dBA at 3m, this low noise makes it suitable for even residential neighborhood installations. Vibration measurements exceed API 618 and recommended industry guidelines.
- Scalable by design – CleanCNG’s control systems, assembly and enclosure are designed and built to be mated together in an expandable manner. Proprietary heat management ensures that heated air is not recirculated between compressors, and performance remains consistent regardless of the number of compressors.
TransLink, the regional transit authority to Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, and the first Canadian transportation provider to achieve Platinum sustainability status from the American Transportation Association, recently purchased six of the new CleanCNG units.
“We were impressed with the CleanCNG because it offers us the low oil carry-over we count on but also a significant opportunity to decrease capital and operating costs because of simpler deployment and improved serviceability,” says Joe Buck, senior vice president of acquisition at Translink. “Longer term, the CleanCNG offers the most scalable platform available, which will allow us to expand as needed to meet our growing fleet fueling requirements.”
According to Clean Energy, Clean Energy Compression facilities meet all ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System requirements, and CleanCNG compressors are available using a variety of cylinder configurations and inlet pressures. Multiple compressor systems, using two or three modular compressor packages that can be integrated together on-site, offer higher overall flow rates and system redundancy, the company adds.
