Propane-based LPG is a refined hydrocarbon fuel consisting predominantly of propane (C₃H₈), derived from natural gas processing and crude oil refining. It is liquefied under moderate pressure, allowing large quantities of energy to be stored and transported efficiently.
Once released from storage, propane instantly vaporizes into gas, providing clean, controllable, and high-intensity heat. Because of its low boiling point (–42°C), propane performs exceptionally well in cold climates, making it superior to butane-rich LPG blends.
Chemical & Physical Composition
Primary Component: Propane (C₃H₈) – typically 90–100%
Minor Components: Trace butane, propylene, ethane (specification dependent)
Sulfur Content: Extremely low (odorant added separately for safety)
Phase Behavior: Liquid under pressure; gas at atmospheric conditions
Key Characteristics of Propane-Based LPG
High Energy Density & Thermal Efficiency
Calorific value of 46–50 MJ/kg delivers instant high heat output and requires less fuel volume than kerosene, coal, or biomass.
Clean & Smokeless Combustion
Near-zero particulate emissions, no soot or ash, very low SOₓ, and reduced CO when properly combusted.
Excellent Cold-Weather Performance
Efficient vaporization at sub-zero temperatures, stable pressure, and no vapor lock — ideal for cold regions and winter operations.
Safe, Portable & Easy to Store
Stored in robust cylinders or bulk tanks, non-toxic, non-corrosive, and odorized with ethyl mercaptan for leak detection.
Environment-Friendly Fuel
Lower CO₂ emissions than diesel, petrol, and coal with no soil or water contamination.
Typical Mechanical & Combustion Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₃H₈ |
| Boiling Point | –42°C |
| Flash Point | –104°C |
| Auto-Ignition Temperature | 470–550°C |
| Liquid Density | 0.49–0.51 kg/L |
| Vapor Pressure (37.8°C) | ~8.4 bar |
| Calorific Value | 46–50 MJ/kg |
| Flame Temperature | ~1,980°C |
| Flammability Range | 2.1% – 9.5% (air) |
Storage, Transport & Supply Formats
Cylinders
Domestic (5 kg–17 kg), commercial (19–47 kg), and industrial high-capacity cylinders
Bulk LPG Supply
Road tanker delivery with above-ground or underground tanks from 450 litres to multi-ton installations
Portable Packs
Disposable or refillable cartridges for camping, labs, emergency, and field use
Centralized LPG Systems
Piped propane supply with automatic changeover and pressure regulation
Applications of Propane-Based LPG
Domestic & Residential
Cooking, water heating, space heating, backup fuel
Commercial Sector
Hotels, restaurants, bakeries, central kitchens, laundry operations
Industrial Applications
Metal cutting, heat treatment, furnaces, kilns, boilers, asphalt and bitumen heating
Automotive (Auto-LPG)
Three-wheelers, taxis, forklifts, light commercial vehicles
Agriculture & Rural Use
Grain drying, greenhouse heating, dairy and poultry systems
Comparison with Other Fuels
| Fuel | Calorific Value | Emissions | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Propane LPG | 46–50 MJ/kg | Low | Easy |
| Diesel | ~45 MJ/kg | High | Liquid |
| Kerosene | ~43 MJ/kg | Moderate | Liquid |
| Firewood | ~15 MJ/kg | Very High | Bulky |
| Coal | ~25 MJ/kg | Very High | Solid |
Advantages Summary
✔ High heat output
✔ Clean combustion
✔ Low maintenance
✔ Cold-climate reliability
✔ Versatile applications
✔ Lower environmental impact
Propane-based LPG is a high-performance, clean, and adaptable energy solution for domestic, commercial, industrial, automotive, and agricultural sectors, offering reliable heat, excellent safety, and strong environmental benefits.