Gaasivedu

Gaasivedu is a propulsion and power-delivery concept that relies on gaseous fuels, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), or biomethane, to power internal-combustion engines or turbines. The term, drawing on Estonian roots gaas (gas) and vedu (drive), is used to describe systems where gas serves as the primary energy carrier for mobility or mechanical drive, as well as for certain stationary power applications.

Technology and operation centers on storing gas in pressurized or cryogenic form, delivering it to an engine through a regulated fuel system, and managing it with engine control units. CNG systems use high-pressure cylinders, while LNG systems rely on cryogenic tanks and evaporation to feed the engine. Dedicated gas engines, bi-fuel configurations, and hybrid arrangements enable switching between gas and liquid fuels or using gas as a supplementary fuel to improve efficiency or reduce emissions.

Advantages of gaasivedu include lower fuel costs in regions with established gas networks, potential reductions in certain pollutants and greenhouse gases, and the ability to reuse existing gas infrastructure for fueling. Drawbacks include higher upfront costs for specialized tanks and fuel systems, methane leakage risk, and variable energy density and fueling infrastructure compared with conventional liquids, which can affect range and logistics in some markets.

Applications typically cover heavy-duty transportation, such as city buses, trucks, and refuse collection vehicles, as well as standby power generation and some industrial drives. Safety and regulation emphasize proper design of pressure vessels, fuel systems, and ventilation, with standards and permitting that vary by country and region.

See also: natural gas vehicle, CNG, LNG, biogas, hydrogen fuel systems.