The propane industry has developed
numerous methods to make the transport and use of propane safe:
Propane equipment and appliances are manufactured to rigorous safety standards.
Propane has a narrow range of flammability when compared with other petroleum
products and has the lowest flammability range of any fossil fuel. In order to
ignite, the propane / air mix must contain from 2.2 percent to 9.6 percent propane
vapor. If the mixture contains less than 2.2 percent gas, it is too lean to burn.
If it contains more than 9.6 percent, it is too rich to burn.
Propane will not ignite when combined with air unless the source of ignition
reaches at least 940 degrees Fahrenheit. In contrast, gasoline will ignite when
the source of ignition reaches only 430 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
If liquid propane leaks, it doesn't puddle but instead vaporizes and dissipates
into the air.
Because it is released from a pressured container as a vapor, propane can't be
ingested like gasoline or alcohol fuels. Propane is a nontoxic, nonpoisonous fuel
that doesn't contaminate aquifers or soil.
Because propane is virtually odorless and colorless in its natural state, a
commercial odorant is added so propane can be detected if it leaks from its
container.
Propane vehicle tanks are constructed from carbon steel in compliance with a
code developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
New propane cylinders are manufactured with an Overfilling Prevention Device
(OPD) that shuts off the filling process when the tank reaches 80 percent of its
liquid capacity. This allows for changes in fuel volume caused by temperature
variations without any release of gas from the tank.
Propane engine fuel systems are fitted with safety devices and shut-off valves
that function automatically if the fuel line ruptures.
The
Propane Education and Research Council (PERC) offers an award-winning preventive
maintenance program called GAS CheckŪ (Gas Appliance System Check). The National
Propane Gas Association (NPGA) currently manages this program. Trained technicians
inspect entire propane systems and appliances to ensure they are running safely and
efficiently. The program also educates homeowners about the proper maintenance of
propane appliances and how to avoid potential safety hazards.
