What is the primary requirement for piping and other apparatus within CNG systems?

The primary requirement for piping and other apparatus within Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) systems is that they must be kept gastight to prevent leakage. This is critical because CNG is highly flammable, and any leak poses significant safety risks, including the potential for explosions or fire. A gastight system ensures that all gas contained within the piping and apparatus remains secure and does not escape into the environment.

While regular inspections are important for maintaining the integrity of the system and identifying wear or potential failure points, the essential requirement is to maintain a tight seal to prevent any gas from leaking out. Additionally, while stainless steel may be a suitable material for some components due to its corrosion resistance, it is not universally required for all piping in CNG systems. Painting for rust prevention is also, while relevant for certain types of materials, not the fundamental requirement compared to the necessity of preventing gas leakage. Thus, keeping the system gastight is of paramount importance for operational safety and compliance with regulatory standards.