What is the difference between propane and butane?

propane and butane are two similar gases used for heating and other fuel applications. Although the supporters of each gas consider their superior, they have advantages and disadvantages. Butan burns more cleaner and provides more energy, but propane is a better choice for situations where temperatures can drop under frost. Finally, the gases are quite similar and the choice between these two depends largely on the availability and intended use of the product.

Similarities

both gases are derived from oil, either from oil or natural gas, but have different chemical structures. Everyone burns at similar temperatures and releases water and carbon dioxide as waste products. If the amount of oxygen available is limited when the gases are burned, carbon monoxide can also produce carbon monoxide. In some cases, the gases may be used interchangeably, but people should always consult the manufacturer before trying to replace the other after the other.

The risks of fire and the risk of both gases are quite similar. In North America there are gases fromAstoupens in the National National Fire Protection Association (NFPA-704). The evaluation indicates high flammability, normal stability, a slight risk of health risk and no special considerations, such as an unusual reaction when mixed with water.

Characteristics of the propane

Propan is used in North America as fuel for heating houses and is also available in smaller portable tanks. Gas barbecue, camping stoves and lanterns can often be used with propane fuel. Mixed with a small amount of other substances such as butylene, propylene and butane, can be used as an automobile fuel known as liquefied oil (LPG). Odor -free gas will often have ethanethiol, which has a strong odor, added to it, so any leaks can be easier to detect.

If it is gas to be stored for a long time or under variable weather conditions, propane is usually a better choice than butane. It is relatively easy to liquefy and squeeze and has a boiling point of -44 ° F (-42 ° C), which means it turns into gas as soon as it comes out of the tank at any temperature above this. Propane can be easily stored outdoors in all environments, as temperatures under freezing do not affect as stored or used.

Butan characteristics

Butan, although it is not so easy to find in many places, it is still a favorite fuel for lighters, torches and some camp stoves. Aerosols can also use gas as a driving substance. Although butane is generally cheaper than propane, it may also be more difficult to use; Because it is not so common, many devices are not designed to work with butane tanks.

This gas also has a boiling point around frost - 32 ° F (0 ° C) - so it doesn't work well at very low temperaturues. The butane remains a liquid below the boiling point and there is no pressure change that would push it out of the container. Butane is rarely used to heat upI can or buildings in places where it is very cold because it cannot be stored outside and still functioning efficiently.

One of the advantages of butane is its improved fuel efficiency. If similar volumes of both substances are burned at temperatures above frost, butane will provide about 12% more energy. Thanks to this advantage, Butan is a good choice for those who try to wrap light, such as backpackers or campers. As long as there is access to an adequate offer, energy efficiency and price advantage can make Butan a better solution in many, but not all circumstances.

mixed fuel

propane and butane are often combined in mixed fuels that provide some of the benefits of each. Such mixes are especially popular for camp stoves. Since propane has a lower boiling point, it can be used to push the butanontejner, even at temperatures at or under frost. Pure propane needs a thick steel container that holds it under pressure; Combination with butane means that pressure mIt can be lower and the lighter vessel, which is important for campers and backpackers.