Why Take CNG Vehicle Fuel System Inspector Training?
More than 150,000 natural gas vehicles (NGVs), each utilizing compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel systems and requiring periodic inspection, create a demand for certified inspectors. Current standards require a detailed visual inspection once every three years or 36,000 miles over the life of the vehicle. Good shop practice recommends a more frequent general inspection. The inspector needs to know what to look for, how to visually inspect, and how to determine whether the vehicle is safe.
The continued use of acceptable fuel system components and the removal from service of damaged components that do not pass the visual inspection criteria are critical to the safety and well-being of all who may come into contact with NGVs. Done correctly, natural gas vehicle fuel system installation and inspection will assure a viable, safe future for an industry that provides a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels for transportation.
The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium at West Virginia University has developed a thoroughly-researched, instructionally sound, easily-applied training program for CNG vehicle fuel system inspection. Participants gain a thorough knowledge of required inspections and apparatus and inspection procedures applicable to the types of components to be inspected. The new Compressed Natural Gas Vehicle Fuel System Inspector course will examine the characteristics of natural gas, address safety concerns, and explain the components of CNG vehicles and proper installation guidelines. The course will also explain proper visual inspection techniques for CNG vehicle components and fuel storage cylinders.
What You Will Learn
Taught by certified NAFTC instructors, this course will enable you to:
- List and explain the characteristics of natural gas
- Examine the operational differences between natural gas powered vehicles and gasoline powered vehicles
- Recognize the components of natural gas vehicles and describe their functions
- Distinguish among the types of fuel storage cylinders used in vehicles
- List the safety features of CNG cylinders
- Identify CNG cylinder standards from CNG cylinder labels
- Demonstrate proper methods for CNG cylinder handling
- Identify, examine, and classify the types of CNG cylinder damage
- List the reasons when a CNG fuel system inspection is warranted
- List the steps required for a CNG fuel system inspection
- Demonstrate proper visual and detailed visual inspection techniques
- Demonstrate proper CNG cylinder defueling and decommission methods
Hands-on activities will provide participants with the opportunity to perform CNG vehicle fuel system inspections themselves on a CNG vehicle.
Materials Provided to the Technician
- Course manual and job aids (charts, handbooks, checklist)
- Course certificate
- Continuing education units (CEUs) are available
Materials Provided to the Instructor
- Instructor's manual including course agenda and planning notes
- Continuing education units (CEUs) are available
- Training aids (overheads, videos, tests, etc.)
- PowerPoint presentations
How You Will Learn
- Gain valuable knowledge from classroom instruction
- Get "hands on" experience from laboratory activities
- Learn practical skills in actual shop environments
Classes are taught by certified instructors at the NAFTC's Regional Training Centers around the country. Click here to see map.
Click here to view the National Alternative Fuels Training Laboratory in Morgantown, West Virginia. Customized classes are brought to your doorstep and are designed to meet your particular needs.
