Norway-based classification society DNV GL has developed a new online propane knock index (PKI) methane number calculator to help with greater adoption of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a fuel, and to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases.
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Designed to analyse a PKI methane number that can be matched with engine specifications, the new tool also supports the development of an international standard for the category.
Currently, different items are used to produce LNG fuel across the globe, and this might cause engine damage and failure.
The new PKI methane number calculator can be used for several engine types and can be used across the entire supply chain by engine manufacturers, ship and truck owners, traders, as well as international policy makers on LNG.
DNV GL Oil & Gas gas quality and energy transition head Johan Knijp said: “DNV GL’s PKI methane number calculator applies a generic method to quantify the knock resistance of LNG. The methodology behind the knock characterisation calculator has been developed with an eye towards serving as the basis for a robust standard.
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By GlobalData“The user-friendly tool is based on the physical and chemical processes that govern knock and the methodology behind the tool can be applied to a wide variety of new and current marine and land-based engine types.
“Together with an international industrial consortium, the calculator is currently being extended to cover this full range of engines. Market analyses using the tool to characterise the range of fuel qualities can be used by the entire supply chain, by engine manufacturers, ship and truck owners, by traders and by international policy makers on LNG.”
The society has also started a joint industry project (JIP) to develop tools to support customers in investment decisions on the design of small-scale LNG distribution infrastructure.
Image: DNV GL’s new PKI methane number calculator can be used by engine manufacturers, ship owners and others. Photo: courtesy of DNV GL AS.
