LPG

A Clean & Safe Energy Source

What is LPG?

LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas and generally refers to propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10). There are some differences between propane and butane in terms of applications. Propane is widely used for households and restaurants as an energy source for heating and cooking, while butane is widely used for vehicles as fuel.

Key Features

  •  LPG liquefies and evaporates easily
  • LPG is transported in liquid form.
  • LPG is heavier than air at room temperature (15℃). So, ventilation is important as LPG leaks can create a gas layer above the floor.
  • LPG is colorless and odorless, so it is packed with odorant before shipping so that any leaks can be easily detected.
  • In the case of prolonged use of LPG, sufficient ventilation must be provided to ensure a sufficient volume of air supply.
  • LPG is relatively non inflammable, so is relatively safe to use.
  • LPG has a high calorific value.
  • The calorific value of liquefied LPG is 46.1 megajoules/kg, which produces more energy in the same weight compared to gasoline and fuel oil.
  • Each liter of LPG gas weighs about 500 to 580 grams, which is less than the weight of gasoline.
  • This gas turns into a liquid at a temperature of 21 degrees Celsius under a maximum pressure of 8 kilograms per square centimeter.
  • Because it is colorless and odorless, sulfur compounds such as mercaptan are added to it for greater safety.

Production

  • Production in Oil Refinery

LPG is retrieved by physical (distillation) or chemical treatment (reforming) of crude petroleum, or by cracking processes.

  • Production in Petro-Chemical Plant

LPG is produced by hydrocracking olefin gas, which is a byproduct retrieved in the extraction of ethylene, propylene, butylene and butadiene from naphtha.

  • Production from Natural Gas

Besides methane and ethane which are produced in the gas fields, wet natural gas including LPG and natural gasoline which are easy to condense and liquefy by pressurization and cooling is also produced

Transportation

LPG is transported in refrigerated vessels, coastal pressurized gas vessels, tank lorries, pipelines and containers

LPG gas application

LPG is used in various fields due to its unique properties:

  • Household fuel: Used in gas stoves, water heaters and heating systems.
  • Vehicle fuel: As a cleaner and more economical alternative to gasoline and diesel.
  • Chemical industry: Raw material in the production of chemical and plastic products.
  • Refrigeration systems: Used as a cooling gas in refrigerators and freezers.
  • Spray production: In the cosmetic and health industries for the production of sprays.

Propane and Butane Mixture Ratio in LPG

The propane and butane mixture ratio in LPG varies depending on the climate and application. In colder regions, the propane percentage is higher (around 70% propane and 30% butane), as propane remains liquid at lower temperatures and provides better performance. In warmer regions, the butane ratio is increased (around 60% butane and 40% propane) to provide optimal efficiency in hot climates. Other blends are available, depending on customer needs and local standards.

LPG Gas Price

The price of LPG gas depends on several factors, including production costs, crude oil prices, transportation costs, and import tariffs. Also, the type of propane and butane mixture and the level of demand in domestic and international markets have a significant impact on the final price of this product. Seasonal fluctuations can also cause prices to change, especially in winter when heating demand increases. To purchase the desired tonnage of LPG gas and find out its price, contact the ofogh-asema commercial team.