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Propane gas is an energy source used in homes mainly for heating of every kind. It is primarily used in areas that do not have access to natural gas. Propane gas can also be called LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) because it can be turned into liquid at low pressures and then stored and transported.

Physical properties of propane

  1. Propane boils at -42°C
  2. Propane has an energy content of 25MJ/L, 49.58MJ/kg, 95.8MJ/m³
  3. Propane’s chemical formula is C3H8
  4. Propane has a relative density in water of 0.51 and of 1.53 in air.
  5. Propane gas’ specific gravity at 25°C is 1.55.

Where does propane gas come from?

Propane is found in combination with other aromatic hydrocarbons in natural gas and crude oil. It is never found alone. Propane is separated from natural gas using refrigeration and separated from crude oil using the distillation tower after this is liquified and stored.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Propane Gas

Advantages

  1. Propane gas is a safe and non-toxic component. Thus, it can be buried underground without any fear of it contaminating the soil. Additionally, since it burns clean, there is no dangerous or caustic byproduct.
  1. Propane gas is plentiful in supply. So far, there’s natural gas and petroleum there will be propane.
  1. It is relatively cost-effective because it produces more energy when compared to other fuel sources.
  1. It has a high burning point which reduces the chance of explosions.
  1. It is an environmentally friendly gas that the United States Congress added to the clean-burning alternative fuels in the Clean Air Act 1990.

Disadvantages

  1. Propane gas has a high density, so if there is a leak, it can pool at the bottom of the room, escaping detection.
  1. Propane gas availability is directly linked to petroleum. So if there is a scarcity of petroleum, it would affect it.
  1. Since propane is transported and stored in liquid form at high pressure, any sudden decompression could be potentially dangerous.
  1. You have to keep up with tank maintenance. If you have a propane tank, the responsibility of tank maintenance and routine inspections falls on you. On the other hand, if the company owns your tank, you will be required to pay a rental fee.

Uses of propane gas

Propane can be used indoors and outdoor, residentially and commercially. It is a generally versatile gas.

Residentially

  • Propane is used to fuel fireplaces and furnaces
  • It used to produce heat
  • Can provide backup power
  • Can power household equipment like lawn mowers and blowers
  • It is used in pool and patio heating

Commercially

  • It is used in manufacturing industries to power machinery.
  • It is used in construction to power things like forklifts and temporary construction heaters.
  • In agriculture, it is used in crop drying, greenhouse, and generators.
  • Restaurants use propane gas to generate heat, hot water, and power cooking appliances. It is handy in mobile restaurants like food trucks.