What is LPG tank?

LPG tanks play a key role in the safe and effective storage of LPG. As an LPG tank manufacturer, we take you through exactly what LPG is and how it is stored, and what an LPG tank is, why such a structure is needed to store the substance and the requirements for a safe LPG tank.

What is LPG or Liquefied Petroleum Gas?

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (also known as LPG or LP gas) is a flammable substance made from a mixture of hydrocarbon gases, which tend to be mainly propane and butane, with a smaller proportion of other substances such as ethylene or ethane.

LPG was first produced by Walter O. Snelling and has been in use for over a century. As the number of applications where LPG can be used continues to increase, so does the demand for this substance.

According to Grand View Research, it is currently considered a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative to other fossil fuel energy sources, a view that will see its global market size grow at a CAGR of 4.4% from 2020 to 2027.

The substance is obtained from fossil fuel sources, either through the process of refining oil or from natural gas sources. LPG stands for liquid petroleum gas. LPG is a non-toxic, clean-burning, sulfur-free and smoke-free fuel consisting of propane or butane. It is delivered and stored as bottled gas or in bulk tanks and can be installed anywhere, making it a versatile and portable energy source for all residential or commercial needs where mains gas is not available. Unlike oil tanks, LPG bulk tanks are safe and give you a high level of peace of mind. Find out more about what LPG can do for you.

LPG is a clean-burning, sustainable and efficient fuel that is a vital source of energy for hundreds of millions of people around the world today. It is a versatile energy source with thousands of applications. It is portable, can be transported, stored and used almost anywhere in the world, and has enough reserves to last for decades. LPG also has lower greenhouse gas emissions than petrol, diesel and electricity on an energy equivalent basis.

lpg storage tank

How to store LPG

LPG is designed to maximise its storage opportunities, as 1 litre of LPG has been shown to be as efficient as 270 litres of natural gas.

However, in order for it to liquefy, it must withstand specific cooling and pressure conditions, which must also be maintained during its storage (and potential transportation). The use of LPG tanks and other alternatives, such as LPG cylinders, LPG bulk tanks, underground LPG tanks or small LPG tanks, can solve this problem.

Flat-bottomed cryogenic storage tanks are one of the most efficient ways to store LPG, with capacities ranging from 1,000 to 30,000 cubic metres.

When considering LPG tanks, a number of risks must be considered.

There is a risk of explosion

There is also a risk of asphyxiation due to LPG leaks

It is a highly flammable substance

In its liquefied state, contact with LPG can cause severe burns

Uses of LPG tanks

LPG can be used for a variety of applications, including

Heating (particularly popular in off-grid homes)

Cooking appliances

Alternative fuels for cars and other vehicles

Refrigerant

Industrial uses

Therefore, just like the storage and transportation of LNG, LPG tanks are the most efficient way to deliver LPG and are easily accessible.

LPG tanks in industry

LPG is used as an energy carrier in many industries. It is also used as a feedstock for the chemical synthesis of substances such as butylene, propylene, ethylene and acrylic acid. Again, the purpose of LPG tanks is to facilitate access to such substances for different industries.

Using LPG tanks

When using LPG tanks, the following safety measures are recommended.

It is recommended that LPG bulk tanks are installed in well ventilated or outdoor areas and on the ground. Mechanical ventilation systems should be considered to ensure that fresh air is provided.

LPG tanks must be protected from any source of ignition or heat and be fire rated. Combustible materials should also be kept away from LPG tanks, as well as anything that may generate static electricity.

These units should be kept away from incompatible substances and the use of barrier systems (e.g. screen walls made of non-combustible materials) should be considered.

The use of alarm systems and air quality tests to monitor potential LPG leaks is recommended.

When operating LPG tanks, personnel must wear adequate personal protective equipment to avoid freezing burns and other hazards.

A proper maintenance schedule must be ensured to avoid tank bursts and other safety issues.

Pressure-reducing valves are a common accessory for LP gas cylinders. These can help relieve pressure to prevent pressure build-up from endangering the system.

The engineering team responsible for the design and implementation of LP gas tanks must comply with the required national and international legislation and quality protocols.

LPG tanks must be stored vertically with the valves closed. The use of appropriate restraint methods, including chains or safety belts, must also be considered.

These storage solutions must also maintain all necessary documentation documenting the safety measures taken, as well as all documentation relating to hazardous materials protocols.

In conclusion, LPG tanks represent an effective and safe method of storing LPG. In the case of industrial LPG use, these storage solutions should be part of an engineering process that takes into account the specific needs of this substance.

At Cryospain, we help companies with their cryogenic storage needs by providing bespoke storage equipment that is safe and meets all relevant requirements. Get in touch with us to see how we can help you.