FAQ

1. How much does a virtual pipeline cost?

To determine the cost of a VP we should determine the project in which it will be applied.  Use, number of users, type of users (residential, industrial, CNG) and the distance between the users and the compression plant directly affect the number of equipments necessary to satisfy this use.  The number and type of equipments involved will determine the cost of the VP necessary for each project in particular.

2. What is the function of the Booster?

The Booster is used in fuelling stations and it is mainly a management unit which allows obtaining the best possible performance of transported gas.   With this system we use 90 to 95% of the gas inside the modules.  It works by discharging the modules in a cascade using their compression capacity to administer the remaining gas inside the modules.

3. What does Galileo provide?

Galileo markets all the equipment, i.e.:  compression unit, shipment and delivery to the use point.  The only thing that is not included is the traction unit necessary to move the trucks.

4. What is the reason for the name virtual pipeline?

Because although you do not invest in a costly pipeline, the user is supplied with natural gas as if that pipeline existed.
On the other hand, since Galileo provides all the system components, correct operation is guaranteed.

5. How is the gas discharged from the modules?

At low pressure use points, the gas is discharged sequentially through the discharge management module.  First, the gas from module 1 is discharged, then the gas from module 2 is discharged and so on.  This happens because of the system used to replace the modules:  when the truck reaches the supply point, empty modules will be found and will be returned to the main station for refilling.  This is very important in order to reduce operational costs at a minimum.  At CNG use points, the discharge is made through the Booster, which takes advantage of the gas transported due to its electronic management unit.

6. At present I have spare capacity in my compressor, can I install a VP from there?

Of course.  Provided the capacity is enough, you can use your GALILEO compressor without any problems.
The important thing is to also analyze if the place where the compressor is installed has enough space to install the necessary equipments. These security measures, apart from the necessary physical measures, are required by local standards.
To set an example, in Argentina the standards require about 6,000 to 8,000 empty m2.

7. Can I use an existing trailer truck?

In case of adapting to the system needs and to be approved by Galileo technical staff the trailer truck which you already have can be used.  However, it should be sent to Galileo factory for its analysis and later assembly.

8. What special features does the traction unit require?

The traction unit requires between 330 and 380hp, and power unit to connect the hydraulic system located in the trailer truck.

9. What capacity does an MAT module have?

The module has a capacity of about 1500 Nm3. It depends on the environmental temperature and the total weight per shaft allowed to travel on local roads.
10. How many MAT modules can a trailer truck carry?
A trailer truck can carry up to 4 modules.  However, this is adjusted to give the best technical-economic solution.

11. How long does it take to load an MAT module?
And to unload?

This will depend exclusively on the capacity of compression installed.  If the compressor has a capacity of 1,500 m3 hour, the MAT module will take about an hour to load.
As regards unloading, this will depend exclusively on the consumption at the end point.  If 1,500 m3 hour is used, the MAT module will take about an hour to unload.  Also, if the use is 100m3 hour, the module will take 15 hours to unload.

12. How heavy is the MAT module?

An MAT module is about 7,000 kg.

13. What is the MAT module made of?

The MAT module is a set of CNG cylinders having a capacity of 125 litres to 160 litres each. The outer shell is made of fibreglass.

14. What is a SCADA?

The SCADA is a Distance Control System which allows monitoring different variables in the use point.  This system is essential to guarantee the logistics so that the natural gas supply is not cut out at any use point.