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Topic: Can a propane generator run off of butane? (Read 1239 times) previous topic - next topic

Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Have a question for everyone.
Can an Onan 7.5 propane gen. run off of butane?

Thanks!
Chris

Re: Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Reply #1 –
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
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Reply #2 –
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.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Reply #3 –
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
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

Re: Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Reply #4 –
Butane will freeze, Propane will not.
Steve & Nancy Snow
1987 GV 40'

Re: Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Reply #5 –
Thanks everybody! Is GAZ readily available there Brett?

Re: Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Reply #6 –
Quote from: chrisgruen –
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
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Can a propane generator run off of butane?

Reply #7 –
Thanks again Brett and everyone!