What is the service life of automotive natural gas tanks?
2 Answers
Automotive natural gas cylinders have a service life of 15 years. Below is relevant information: Time: The service life of automotive natural gas cylinders is generally 15 years. Regulations: For safety reasons, relevant regulations stipulate that vehicles converted to natural gas must undergo an annual inspection of the gas cylinder every two years. If the cylinder shows wear or damage, it must be replaced before the vehicle can continue to be used. Therefore, in vehicles converted to natural gas, the cylinder is usually secured with two straps, and there is a rubber pad between the cylinder and the straps to protect it. If the rubber pad is damaged, the cylinder may suffer wear. Thus, vehicle owners should closely monitor the condition of the rubber pad and replace it promptly if damaged to prevent damage to the cylinder.
I remember that the service life of vehicle-mounted natural gas tanks is generally around 15 years, depending on national regulations and the material standards of the tank. For example, in China, it's common for tanks to require replacement after 15 years because prolonged high-pressure filling can gradually lead to internal corrosion or material fatigue, posing risks of leakage or even explosion. Vehicle owners should pay attention to the production date label on the gas cylinder and replace it at a certified service center once it reaches 15 years. Many factors affect the lifespan: high usage frequency may shorten it to 10 years; humid environments or drastic temperature changes can accelerate aging. However, with proper maintenance, such as regular inspections of the cylinder's exterior and sealing, it can be safely used until the end of its service life. The key is not to delay replacement to save money, as driving safety depends on it! I once delayed replacement by half a year and nearly had an accident—a profound lesson learned.