If your car runs on CNG, just filling gas and getting the car serviced is not enough. It is also necessary to check its cylinder from time to time. In fact, whenever CNG is filled, the pressure of the gas inside the cylinder increases and decreases. If this happens continuously, the metal of the cylinder can weaken over many years. Apart from this, there is also a danger of rusting inside due to moisture. Such problems are not always visible from the outside. So hydro testing of CNG cylinder is done.
When should a CNG cylinder be tested?
Hydro testing of CNG cylinders is required every three years in India. This rule applies to both factory-installed and after-installed CNG kits. To know the test date, look at the details written on the cylinder. It is not necessary that the first inspection date falls exactly three years after the purchase of the car, as the cylinder may be manufactured even before the delivery of the car. If the car has been in an accident, caught fire or rusted and dents are visible on the cylinder, get it checked without waiting for the due date.
What is the validity of the cylinder?
After passing the hydro test, the cylinder can be used for the next three years. Therefore, its total service life varies. The maximum shelf life of an automotive CNG cylinder can be up to 20 years from the date of manufacture. This depends on the manufacturer and applicable regulations. Passing the test does not increase overall cylinder life.
How much does the test cost?
The cost of hydro testing varies depending on the number of cylinders, CNG setup and testing center. Twin cylinder cars may cost more due to checking both cylinders. If the valve gets damaged, you will have to pay extra to replace it.
How is hydro testing done?
This test should be done only at an authorized testing center. In this, first the remaining gas is safely removed from the cylinder and separated from the car. Then rust, cracks and dents are checked. After this, the cylinder is filled with water and pressurized above the specified pressure, so that leakage or permanent expansion can be detected. After the test, the cylinder is dried, the valve is checked and if passed, the date for a new test is recorded. Finally, it is reinstalled in the car and checked for gas leakage.
What happens if the test is not done?
If the cylinder check date has passed, filling gas at CNG pumps may be prohibited. Problems can also arise during verification of vehicle documents. In case of an accident, questions may arise regarding the insurance claim, although the decision depends on the policy and the circumstances of the accident.
If the cylinder fails the test, it cannot be reused. A new approved cylinder has to be installed in its place. It can cost around 12,000 to 18,000 rupees. The cost of fittings will vary.
How to know next test date?
Look for the metal compliance plate near your car’s CNG filling point or fuel flap. It also contains other information about the cylinder along with the date of last and next test. If the plate is missing or incorrect, contact the CNG kit supplier or authorized testing center. Remember, it is important to have a cylinder inspected every three years and keep track of its total service life. By testing on time, you can better protect yourself and the people traveling in the car.
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