LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) injectors are essential components in LPG fuel systems for vehicles. These injectors meter and inject gas (LPG) into the engine's cylinders, replacing gasoline in an internal combustion engine modified to run on gas. LPG systems are increasingly popular due to their greater efficiency and lower environmental impact compared to gasoline or diesel engines.
Function of LPG injectors:
LPG injectors perform a similar function to traditional injectors in petrol engines, but with some fundamental differences:
Gas metering : LPG injectors are designed to inject liquefied gas directly into the engine's intake manifold, where it turns into gas on contact with air and is mixed with oxygen for combustion.
Precision : They must be able to dose the quantity of gas to be injected with great precision, in order to optimize combustion and reduce polluting emissions.
Resistance : LPG injectors are subjected to much higher pressures than petrol ones, so they are made of more resistant materials and designed to last over time, avoiding clogging and malfunctions.
Types of LPG injectors:
Continuous flow (or low pressure) injectors :
These injectors are used in the simplest LPG systems, in which the gas is injected continuously, with a non-variable dosage.
More common in older vehicles or those with basic LPG systems.
Liquid phase (or high pressure) injectors :
These injectors are designed to handle high-pressure gas (up to 30 bar). The liquid gas is injected directly into the cylinders, where it rapidly expands and mixes with air for combustion.
These injectors are typically found in modern sequential injection systems, which offer performance similar to that of gasoline engines, with precise and variable gas metering.
Sequential injectors :
The sequential system is one of the most advanced technologies. The injectors are controlled by an electronic control unit that manages the amount of gas injected into each cylinder independently. This optimizes gas delivery for all driving conditions, improving performance and reducing fuel consumption.
How LPG injectors work:
They receive the gas : LPG injectors receive the gas from a pressure tank, via a regulator valve.
Manifold injection : The gas is injected into the engine's intake manifold, where it mixes with air. The amount of gas injected depends on the engine's demands (acceleration, speed, etc.).
Ignition and combustion : Once the gas is mixed with air and drawn into the cylinders, the engine ignites the mixture to start the combustion process, as happens in a gasoline engine.
Advantages of LPG injectors:
Better fuel efficiency : LPG has a lower calorific value than petrol, but thanks to a well-calibrated injection system, engine efficiency can be very good.
Lower emissions : LPG produces less CO2 and other pollutants than petrol or diesel.
Greater autonomy : The use of LPG allows for greater autonomy compared to petrol, thanks to the low cost of gas and the capacity of the tank.
Lower maintenance costs : LPG systems tend to cause less engine damage than traditional fuels, and their maintenance can be simpler and cheaper.
Maintenance of LPG injectors:
LPG injectors, like all mechanical parts, require regular maintenance to ensure the system functions properly. Some maintenance tips include:
Cleaning the injectors : Periodically, it may be necessary to clean the injectors to remove any carbon deposits or impurities that may be impeding the flow of gas.
System check : Check that all components of the LPG system, including the injectors, are in good condition and that there are no gas leaks.
Replacing Injectors : If your injectors show signs of malfunction, such as poor gas delivery or erratic injection, it is important to replace them promptly to avoid engine damage.
Conclusions:
LPG injectors are a crucial component for the proper functioning of an LPG system, ensuring good combustion, optimal performance, and reducing environmental impact. Choosing a good system and regularly maintaining the injectors are essential to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity.
