Conversion of Propane/Butane to LPG

[Lutz]

I happened to stumble across a website of the German company Wynen that converts caravans from propane/butane to LPG. This avoids the hassle of different bottle types and sizes in various countries throughout Europe. Might be of interest to those planning extended tours abroad? Besides, LPG is cheaper than propane/butane.

 

[marlot]

Can I be the first to point out that propane and butane are LPG!

If you want refillable containers you can get them in the UK. eg. from Gaslow.

 

[Lutz]

Yes, but the LPG used as fuel for vehicle engines is not a pure hydrocarbon but a mixture of propane and isobutane. Because it is sold in bulk rather than in bottles, the price is lower than pure propane or butane.

Another advantage of the conversion is that the fittings are compatible with vehicle LPG connections.

 

[gary]

Excepting the distinction for a moment, 'LPG' as sold on British forecourts is pure propane or as near as damn it.

I know that abroad this fact can vary up to 60%propane/40% butane.

A fact I found from a desperate phone call and diagnosing a 'no gas' situation from a full refillable bottle?

This motorhome was high in the French Alps and the bottle had only been gassing off propane until multiple 'refills' had left it completely full of butane!

Solution in this case was to get off the mountain into warmer climes!!

 

[ProfJohnL]

I broadly concur with Gary,

I would add that commercial propane which is what most UK LPG garages sell can contain quite a cocktail of other related hydrocarbon fractions. The lighter fractions (propanes and methanes) tend to make flames less stable on burners. Flame lift off (where the velocity of the gas merging from a burner port is close to or exceeds the flame speed.)

A Higher proportion of a heavier fraction such as butane (or Isobutane) should improve the compatability of the gas to standard caravan appliances.