How are Alternative Fuel vehicles refueled?
A CNG refueling station stores natural gas at pressures between 2400 psi and 3600 psi. Storage at 3600 psi is becoming the norm because a greater concentration of fuel can be stored in the same size area. Fuel is then pumped into the vehicle in much the same manner as traditional gasoline or diesel fuels. Compressed Natural Gas vehicles have two fueling options. A fast-fill takes three to five minutes while the slow-fill takes six to twelve hours. The slow fill does not require as large a compressor as does a fast fill and is therefore less expensive. Slow fills are generally used by fleets whose vehicles are stored in a central overnight facility.
