CNG STATION & GARAGE MODIFICATIONCODES & STANDARDS

Graham BarkerBusiness Development Manager

Overview

There are often many questions pertaining to the codes & standards applicable to the installation of CNG vehicle fueling

stations and potential garage modifications when storingand/or repairing CNG vehicles.

This presentation will provide a broad overview of the requirements for both New York City and New York State

Natural Gas Safety Facts

- Delivered through existing pipeline infrastructure, same gas used for cooking and heating

- Lighter than air - dissipates when released- High ignition temperature – above 1000˚F- Limited flammability range 5-15% gas to air mixture- Colorless, non toxic, odorless substance (odor added)- Doesn’t leak into groundwater- CNG is approved for all tunnels & bridges in NYC

Natural gas is a very safe fuel!

There are several standards applicable to the design and installation of CNG stations and repair facilities in the

region; both national and local.

The national code tends to be the basis and reference point for the local codes, which is then supplemented by

additional local requirements.

The main national code used in CNG stations is:

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 52 Vehicular Gaseous Fuel Systems Code

Most local and regional codes reference this document, however they may not always use the most current

edition.

NFPA is a US-based organization charged with creating and maintaining minimum standards and requirements for fire

prevention and suppression activities, training, equipment, and life safety codes and standards.

NFPA was formed in 1896 by insurance companies to insure the safety and reliability of the new and burgeoning industries of

electrical wiring systems and fire sprinklers, and since then has expanded to cover a wide range of applications & equipment.

NFPA codes and standards, even when not written into law, are typically accepted as professional standards.

NFPA 52 Covers ALL Gaseous Fuels:

• Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)• Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)• Compressed Hydrogen Gas (GH2)• Liquefied Hydrogen Gas (LH2)

The CNG section is divided into four (4) chapters:

Chapter 4: General CNG requirementsChapter 6: CNG Engine Fuel SystemsChapter 8: CNG Compression, Gas Processing, and DispensingChapter 10: CNG Residential Fueling Facilities

NFPA 52 covers the following major design & installation areas:

• System approvals• Component safety requirements• Component qualifications• Installation of major station components• Installation of piping, valves and vents• Installation of pressure regulators and gauges• Wiring installation• System testing• Signs and labeling• Maintenance & repair

NFPA 52 details the following major siting requirements:

• Minimum distance from adjacent property line• Minimum distance from nearest important building• Minimum distance from nearest public street or sidewalk• Minimum distance from nearest railroad track• Minimum distance from overhead power lines• Minimum distance from above ground fuel storage tanks• Minimum distance from readily ignitable material• Maintenance space requirements• Electrical classification for equipment and surrounding area

Other pertinent NFPA standards applicable to CNG Stations:

• NFPA 30A: Motor Fuel Dispensing and Repair Garages• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code• NFPA 88B: Standard for Repair Garages

Plus, if engine driven compressors are being considered:

• NFPA 37: Standard for the Installation & Use of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines

New York codes applicable to CNG stations:

• NY State Fire Code• NY State Fuel Gas Code• New York City Fire Code• Rules of the Fire Department of the City of New York

These codes make modifications to the national codes to meet specific New York requirements .

Additionally, all state and local building, electrical and plumbing codes must also be followed.

Applicable standards for CNG Repair Facilities:

• NFPA 30A: Motor Fuel Dispensing and Repair Garages• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code• NFPA 88B: Standard for Repair Garages• New York City Fire Code• Rules of the Fire Department of the City of New York

Typical CNG Repair Facility Requirements:

• Gas detection system required, potentially tied into the ventilation system

• No open flame heaters or heaters with a surface temperature above 750˚F allowed in areas subject to ignitable concentrations of gas• Area from ceiling to 18” below ceiling electrically designated as Class 1, Division 2 hazardous location . If more than 4 air changes per hour occur, this can be waived by the ‘Authority Having Jurisdiction” • Possible ventilation upgrade

Summary

As can be seen from the above, there are many factors to be considered during the design phase of a CNG project.

It is recommended that experienced engineering and installation companies be utilized to ensure full compliance with all codes.

Also, it is essential to liaise with the local fire department official early in the process to ensure that there will be no surprises

during the process.

Contact Information

Graham BarkerPO Box 110556

Trumbull, CT 06611203 374 1795

Vince Tomasso42 Industrial Drive

Cliffwood Beach, NJ 07735800-716-5550

www.airgastech.com