DESIGNING SYSTEM FOR FIRE PROTECTION OF BUSES ON NATURAL GAS

Abstract

Natural gas as fuel is a commercially very attractive. A combination of low gas price and incentives for environmentally friendly solutions are key arguments for bus fleet operators to convert to natural gas-powered vehicles. From the second side, any fuel can be dangerous if handled improperly. Gasoline and diesel are potentially dangerous fuels, but over time we are learned to use them safely. The same is true with liquefied petroleum gas and natural gas, as well as hydrogen. Recent fire accidents involving buses on natural gas have shown that cylinders may explode through compliant with current UN ECE R110 Regulation. Such a repeat scenario is certainly not acceptable having in mind the tremendous amount of energy released when a compressed cylinder burst. Recommended practice indicates the necessity improvements of current buses fire safety concepts. Fire safety should not solely rely only on cylinder behavior when exposed to fire. Potential causes of fire or ignition sources are also engine compartment and exhaust system, low voltage battery, heaters, wheel, garages, interior, etc.