Gas Flow Questions

[Rod_374243662]

Dear all, I've got a query about a potential gas set up for the camper.

I've got a Sibir RC 1100 3 way camping fridge and a two burner gas stove. I am thinking of running them both off the same gas bottle ( probably a 11kg or 19kg LPG) using a 3-way 90 degree junction just off the regulator. The regulator would be at 37mbar.

I was wondering if the amount of gas supplied would be enough to run them both at the same time?

Back in Oz, I just ran two seperate bottles so I haven't encounted this scenario before. Any thoughts, advice and info would be greatly appreciated (keeping in mind I'm trying to get away from the two bottle set up).

Thanks.

Cheers Rod

 

[Damian]

Rod, every caravan in the UK (at least) manages to run a Fridge, Cooker, including oven, gas heating, gas hot water all from one bottle at 30mb.

Why do you want your reg at 37mb?

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Rod,

Damian is correct about virtually all UK and continental caravans running all appliances of one bottle, but the question of gas pressure is determined by the appliances you use.

Firstly all the appliances will carry a data plate, which states the required gas type (Propane or Butane) and pressure. All the appliances must have be designed for the same pressure if they are to be run of a single supply.

You must match the regulator with the appliances.

In the UK a competent person must carry out all installation, service and repair of gas systems and appliances. (Health and Safety Regulations)

If you have to ask for this type of advice, you may need to seek help from a professional fitter.

 

[rob_jax]

Hi Rod,

Please make sure you understand the safety implications so eloquently posted by others, and that you really need a 37 mBar regulator - if it's wrong then you'll over-fuel the appliances and you'd better be good at cleaning soot from the burner assemblies.

However, assuming everything is OK and you're happy to do the "plumbing" - these devices are meant for home DIY connection after all, then a couple of tips:

1. Use medium pressure (rubber or synthetic rubber) gas tubing - that's the thick wall tubing - and don't use the "drinking straw" type tubing.

The thick walled tubing is very robust - has a life expectancy of between 3 and 5 years

2. You'll probably only be able to buy the thick wall tubing in 2 metre lengths - so you'll probably end up buying a metal table of some sort to stand the cooker on and have the fridge underneath.

3. Gas regulators have the ability to provide quite a high flow rate - much more than your two appliances will ever need.

4. I'm a bit wary of people using plain T pieces - ideally you want a T piece with either non-return or manual valves to isolate branches of the T in case you need to strip the thing down.

Robert

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Rod

Further to Rob-jax's comment,

Butane or Propane LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) in either for will dissolve natural rubber components. You must use the correctly specified flexible pipework for LPG. This is usually a Neoprene and or Nitrile base with is not attacked by LPG.

High pressure (Bottle pressure) pipes must be reinforced.

All flexible pipes must be firmly anchored to their fittings either with single use crimps, or 'jubilee' clips

Copper pipe should be used for installation carcass (typically 8mm OD) with compression couplings.

Flexible hoses for LPG have to comply with BS3212 and the will be stamped with that reference and a manufacturing date. Hoses should be changed every 5years or when any cracking is apparent.

As I previously said, All gas installation work must be carried out by a competent person. (Health & Safety Regulations).

 

[Rod_374243662]

John, Rob and Damian,

Thanks for the replies. Much appreciated.

The hoses that I have purchased are the correct rubber and lengths but thanks for tips. Both my appliances are rated for 37mbar and so is my regulator.

Robert, the T-bar juntion that I have got is able to be isolated with a switch and all the hosings are securely fitted with jubilee clips. I sourced all my equipment and prices from BES gas supplies. Cheap easy and they delivered really quick

Thanks again Rod