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02/08/2024

Detecting Butane Toxic Gas

Posted by Rhys Redrup

Detecting Butane Toxic Gas

Detecting Butane Toxic Gas

Butane is a colourless, flammable hydrocarbon gas that plays a significant role in various industries and everyday applications. As a member of the alkane family, butane (C₄H₁₀) is composed of four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms. In this blog post, we’ll explore what butane is, where it’s used, where it’s found, and recommend a suitable gas detection product from Rockall Safety. 

What is Butane? 

Butane is a highly flammable, odourless gas that exists in two isomeric forms: n-butane and isobutane. At room temperature, it’s typically in a gaseous state but can be easily liquefied under pressure. Some key properties of butane include: 

  • Chemical formula: C₄H₁₀ 
  • Molecular weight: 58.12 g/mol 
  • Boiling point: -0.5°C (31.1°F) 
  • Autoignition temperature: 405°C (761°F) 

Where is Butane Used? 

Butane finds applications in various industries and everyday products due to its versatility and energy content. Some common uses include: 

  1. Fuel for portable stoves and lighters 
  1. Propellant in aerosol sprays 
  1. Refrigerant in cooling systems 
  1. Feedstock for petrochemical production 
  1. Blending component in gasoline 
  1. Fuel for industrial processes 

Where is Butane Found? 

Butane occurs naturally and can be found in several sources: 

  • Natural gas deposits 
  • Crude oil reservoirs 
  • As a byproduct of petroleum refining 
  • In some plant emissions 

It’s often extracted during natural gas processing or petroleum refining and then purified for commercial use. 

Detecting Butane Toxic Gas: Rockall Safety’s Solution 

Given the flammable nature of butane, it’s crucial to have reliable gas detection equipment in environments where it may be present. Rockall Safety offers a range of high-quality gas detectors suitable for butane detection. One recommended product is: 

BW MicroClip XL Dummy Combustible Sensor 

This gas detector is part of the BW Technologies line and is designed to detect flammable gases like butane. Key features include: 

  • ATEX certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres 
  • Detects flammable gases (LEL – Lower Explosive Limit) 
  • Part of a comprehensive gas detection system 

Butane Properties and Safety Considerations 

To better understand butane and its safety implications, consider the following table: 

Property Value Safety Consideration 
Flammability Range 1.8% – 8.4% in air Easily ignitable within this range 
Vapour Density 2.11 (heavier than air) Can accumulate in low-lying areas 
Odour Odourless (unless odorized) May go undetected without proper equipment 
Exposure Limits 1000 ppm (8-hour TWA) Prolonged exposure can be harmful 

 

Butane vs. Propane: A Comparison 

While butane and propane are both LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) products, they have some distinct differences: 

Characteristic Butane Propane 
Boiling Point -1°C (30.2°F) -42°C (-43.6°F) 
Energy Output Higher (per volume) Lower (per volume) 
Cold Weather Performance Poor Excellent 
Cost Generally cheaper Slightly more expensive 
Environmental Impact Lower emissions Higher emissions 

Conclusion

Understanding these properties is crucial for implementing proper safety measures and selecting appropriate gas detection equipment. 

In conclusion, butane is a versatile and widely used gas that requires careful handling and monitoring. By understanding its properties, applications, and potential hazards, you can ensure a safer working environment. Rockall Safety’s gas detection solutions, like the BW MicroClip XL Dummy Combustible Sensor, provide reliable protection against potential butane leaks and accumulation. 

Remember, when working with or around butane, always prioritise safety and use appropriate gas detection equipment to minimise risks and ensure a secure workplace. 

 

Get in touch with our team today! We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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Written by Chris Ihejiawunze

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