What is Hydrogen-Enriched Compressed Natural Gas (HCNG)?
HCNG is a blend of natural gas and hydrogen. Tests show that a blend of approximately 20% hydrogen and 80% CNG by volume can reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides by 30 to 50% without affecting the performance and efficiency of a natural gas engine. In 2003, Cummins Westport worked with Westport Innovations and SunLine Transit Agency of California to test and develop this new and exciting demonstration technology. A Cummins Westport B Gas Plus engine was re-calibrated for 20% H2, 80% CNG without fuel economy or performance trade-off. There are many benefits to studying and developing the HCNG technology: • existing CNG fueling facilities can be used to develop the hydrogen infrastructure and related codes and standards for light-duty vehicles. • natural gas and HCNG come from predominantly domestic supplies thereby lessening dependence on imported oil in the high fuel use (heavy-duty) applications. • natural gas and hydrogen blended fuels provides excellent emissions benefits today and p
