Linde North America, reported a successful trial of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) mobile fueling unit. The Linde mobile fueler allows customers to test the feasibility of using LNG as an alternative to fuels such as diesel.
Linde worked with C Cross Transportation, a Mississippi-based hauler with a fleet of more than 100 tractors, to set up the fuel supply for an LNG tractor the company is testing in South Carolina. The Linde team managed the logistics, arranged the installation, safely deployed the equipment and supplied the needed training.
“Our mobile fueler has generated a great deal of interest at trade shows, and we are delighted to report this positive experience from the field.”
“As a major hauler we were eager to test whether using LNG is feasible and we are very pleased with the results,” said Harrison Cook, President of C Cross Transportation. “The Linde team focused on safety and training, and made the process simple for our site personnel, which gave them confidence in their ability to manage the system. Based on experience to date, we expect to expand the test going forward.”
Natural gas is a clean and economical fuel produced in the U.S. The growing cost differential between diesel and LNG can make it an attractive option that provides good payback over the lifetime of the trucks.
“This test demonstrates the simplicity of our LNG mobile fueling system, and it highlights Linde’s commitment to service and safety,” commented Douglas Bell, head of energy solutions – operations at Linde North America. “Our mobile fueler has generated a great deal of interest at trade shows, and we are delighted to report this positive experience from the field.”
Linde operates cryogenic plants and makes several million deliveries of cryogenic gases annually. It offers the technologies, equipment, supplies and services for a comprehensive, safe and customizable LNG fueling solution, including producing and servicing mobile and permanent LNG refueling stations. Linde is also applying this expertise to build its own LNG-fueled fleet by converting existing vehicles to LNG and purchasing new LNG-fueled tractors.
“The success of this test illustrates how LNG is becoming a competitive alternative to diesel,” said Earl Lawson, vice president, energy solutions for Linde North America. “Linde is committed to providing solutions allowing our customers to choose LNG as a safe, efficient and cost effective industrial fueling choice.”
[mappress] LNG World News Staff, November 15, 2012; Image: Linde LNG