Have a question for everyone.
Can an Onan 7.5 propane gen. run off of butane?
Thanks!
Chris
Chris,
I don't have an "official" answer on that-- might contact Onan, though I am not sure any of their customer service people would really have a considered answer.
I can tell you that propane is not really available in Mexico. Our Onan 6.3 has always done just fine when we get GAZ (mostly butane) in Mexico. Have noticed no running issues or maintenance issues.
Brett
Dave,
Google came up with this: propane 19768 BTU/lb. and butane is 19494 BTU/lb
Pressure would be controlled by the regulator and therefore the same on either fuel (unless operating below 35 degrees F) where the pressure of butane, because of boiling point around 32 degrees F may be a problem.
Butane has a vapor pressure of about 29 psi and propane's is about 102 psi. Translation: a butane tank can be very thin but a propane tank has to be several times thicker.
Here is a great answer: Quote "For domestic purpose butane based LPG in preferred as its vapour pressure is less and the pressure requirement for utilisation is also lesser as compared to engine driving force. On the other hand propane based LPG is proffered for driving Car etc. as the vapour pressure of the the gas will be more and it will facilitate the pushing of the gas to ignition chamber."
Butane is used as a replacement for freon in some commercial refrigeration. It can be used in automotive applications and only needs a very small amount compared to freon or R134. Compressor start-up requires much less amperage or horsepower. No record of any fires caused by it's use.
Pierce
Butane will freeze, Propane will not.
Thanks everybody! Is GAZ readily available there Brett?
Yes. In fact, at several CG's the GAZ truck came through the CG. Prices are posted on the side of the trucks.
Brett
Thanks again Brett and everyone!