Does the Ratio of Propane to Butane Change in a Half-Empty LPG Cylinder?

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In summary, the LPG-cylinder containing 50% Propane and 50% Butane will still have a mix of 50/50 between Propane and Butane after using half of the content. However, the Propane will be used faster due to its higher vapor pressure, resulting in the remaining liquid becoming richer in Butane. The mixture of gases will depend on whether only vapor is taken from the tank or liquid. The exit vapor will be a mixture of Butane and Propane according to Raolt's Law.
  • #1
Saint1968
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If I have a LPG-cylinder that contains a mix of 50 % Propane and 50 % Butane, and I use half of the content.
Will the mix still be 50/50 between Propane/Butane? Or will one of the gasses be used faster than the other?
 
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  • #2
"Yes."

You will have to be more specific about conditions.
 
  • #3
The Propane has a higher vapor pressure than the Butane, so the propane will be used faster, and the liquid will become richer in butane.
 
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  • #4
It depends on whether you are just using vapor off the top of the tank or taking liquid.
 
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  • #5
Bystander said:
"Yes."

You will have to be more specific about conditions.
The outtake of gas will be in gas-phase (Vapor)
 
  • #6
Averagesupernova said:
It depends on whether you are just using vapor off the top of the tank or taking liquid.
The outtake of gas will be in gas-phase (Vapor)
 
  • #7
Chestermiller said:
The Propane has a higher vapor pressure than the Butane, so the propane will be used faster, and the liquid will become richer in butane.
So, the gasses keep their own properties and will not be a combination of the two?
 
  • #8
Saint1968 said:
So, the gasses keep their own properties and will not be a combination of the two?
The exit vapor will be an intimate mixture of butane and propane in proportions described approximately by Raolt's Law.
 
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Related to Does the Ratio of Propane to Butane Change in a Half-Empty LPG Cylinder?

1. What is the difference between propane and butane?

Propane and butane are both hydrocarbon gases commonly used as fuels. The main difference between the two is their boiling points. Propane has a lower boiling point of -42°C, while butane's boiling point is -0.5°C. This means that propane is a gas at room temperature, while butane is a liquid.

2. How are propane and butane commonly used?

Propane and butane are commonly used as fuels for heating and cooking. Propane is often used in outdoor grills and camping stoves, while butane is commonly used in portable stoves and lighters. They are also used as propellants in aerosol sprays and as refrigerants in some air conditioning systems.

3. Can propane and butane be mixed together?

Yes, propane and butane can be mixed together to create a fuel blend. This is commonly done for use in portable stoves and camping equipment, as it allows for a more efficient and cost-effective use of both gases. The most common mixture is 70% propane and 30% butane.

4. What are the safety considerations when using a mix of propane and butane?

When using a mix of propane and butane, it is important to follow proper safety precautions. Both gases are highly flammable and should be stored and handled with caution. It is also important to use the correct type of gas for your equipment, as some stoves and appliances may only be compatible with one type of gas.

5. How does the mix of propane and butane affect the performance of equipment?

The performance of equipment using a mix of propane and butane can vary depending on the specific blend and the equipment being used. In general, a higher proportion of propane in the mix will provide a higher heat output, while a higher proportion of butane may result in a longer burning time. It is important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended gas blend for your equipment.

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