Damon Mcknight
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a popular alternative fuel for cars in Australia due to its lower price compared to petrol. LPG is sourced from raw natural gas and crude oil, and the production process involves separating it into propane, butane, and isobutane. The use of LPG in cars has been declining due to the end of government subsidies and the emergence of more environmentally friendly vehicles, such as hybrid and electric cars. However, LPG remains a cost-effective option for many drivers, especially those who drive long distances or cover high mileage. Filling an LPG car involves connecting the bowser nozzle to the fuel tank securely, filling the tank, and unscrewing the nozzle once full. It is important to take safety precautions when filling an LPG car, such as wearing protective gloves to avoid cold burns in case of any leaks or blowback.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| LPG composition | A blend of propane and butane |
| LPG source | Crude oil or raw natural gas |
| LPG price | Approximately 20 cents per litre less than standard E10 unleaded petrol |
| LPG tank capacity | 68 litres from dead empty to full |
| LPG filling procedure | Unscrew filler cap, remove bowser, screw bowser nozzle to fuel tank/pipe opening, fill, unscrew nozzle |
| LPG safety | Wear protective gloves, avoid lighting matches near LPG tank |
| LPG alternatives | Hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles |
| LPG commercial suppliers | ELGAS |
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What You'll Learn
LPG filling procedure
LPG, or autogas, is a popular fuel option for cars in Australia due to its lower price compared to petrol. It is a fossil fuel that shares characteristics with petrol and diesel, and can be sourced from crude oil or raw natural gas.
When filling up an LPG car, it is important to take safety precautions. LPG is odourless and colourless, so a chemical called ethyl mercaptan is added as a safety measure to give it a distinctive smell. Always wear protective gloves when filling up, as a leak or blowback from the valve can cause severe cold burns. It is also important to note that overfilling your tank can lead to leaks from the relief valve, potentially resulting in a fire.
To fill an LPG car, start by unscrewing the filler cap. Then, remove the bowser and screw the bowser nozzle securely into the fuel tank/pipe opening. You will know that the tank is full when you hear a small popping sound, at which point you can unscrew the nozzle. The pump will automatically cut off when the tank reaches 70 to 80% of its rated capacity.
Some LPG car owners in Australia have suggested using an LPG "jerry can" as a backup option when running out of LPG. This involves using a 6 to 9 kg barbeque gas bottle with a hose and adaptor to fit the standard car fill point. While this method may be practical for long-distance travellers, it is important to note that it is illegal to fill a gas bottle from an LPG pump using an adaptor. Always check local laws and regulations before attempting to use an LPG "jerry can".
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LPG safety precautions
LPG, or liquified petroleum gas, is a hazardous flammable material that can pose a serious safety risk if not handled properly. Here are some important safety precautions to follow when using LPG:
Ventilation and Indoor Use
Always ensure adequate ventilation when using LPG. LPG should never be used indoors or in confined spaces without proper ventilation, as it can pose a serious health and safety risk. The exhaust from LPG-fueled equipment contains poisonous carbon monoxide, so it is important to use this equipment in outdoor or well-ventilated areas only.
Leak Prevention and Detection
LPG cylinders should always be stored and transported securely in a vertical position, with the valves closed, to prevent leaks. When connecting and disconnecting LPG cylinders, always use approved or certified hoses and connections designed for gas and ensure that all connections are tight. After use, remember to close the cylinder valve before turning off the LPG appliance. To detect leaks, turn on the cylinder valve and test for leaks with soapy water; if bubbles form, turn off the gas supply and do not use the appliance.
Handling and Storage
When handling LPG, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), especially eye and hand protection. Do not use metal tools when changing cylinders, and never attempt to cut open, modify, repair, or disassemble any parts of an LPG container. LPG containers should be stored in a secure location that minimises exposure to excessive temperature rise, physical damage, or tampering by unauthorised persons. Keep LPG cylinders at least 20 feet away from buildings and protected from rain, and do not store them near exits, stairways, or other high-traffic areas.
Ignition Sources
LPG is highly flammable and can be ignited if there is a leak. Never use, handle, or store LPG near other flammable or combustible materials, or near ignition sources such as open flames, pilot lights, or spark-producing power tools. Do not smoke while handling, transporting, or working near LPG containers or tanks.
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LPG vs petrol/diesel
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a fossil fuel with characteristics similar to petrol and diesel. LPG is sourced from crude oil or raw natural gas, the latter being the primary source of Australian LPG. LPG can be used in both petrol and diesel vehicles, but the outcome differs.
LPG vs Petrol
LPG is cheaper than petrol, with a discount of approximately 20 cents per litre compared to standard E10 unleaded petrol. This has made LPG a popular choice for taxis, as the lower running costs over a vehicle's lifetime can offset the high initial conversion cost of $3000-$5000. However, the price gap between LPG and petrol has narrowed, and LPG is also less energy-efficient, with some petrol cars achieving double the fuel consumption when running on LPG. This higher fuel consumption can negate some of the cost savings of LPG. LPG systems also have practical disadvantages, such as reduced boot space and ground clearance for SUVs.
LPG vs Diesel
Diesel vehicles generally have higher servicing costs than petrol and dual-fuel machines, with more frequent services and more expensive oil and labour requirements. However, LPG conversions for diesel vehicles are possible and can improve fuel efficiency. Introducing LPG to a diesel engine improves the burning of diesel, leading to increased power and torque with less diesel consumption.
LPG is a cleaner fuel than petrol and diesel, which led the Australian government to introduce a rebate for LPG conversions in 2008. However, this rebate ended in 2014, and an LPG fuel excise was introduced in 2011, reducing the cost benefits of LPG. Today, the environmental advantages of LPG have been largely superseded by hybrid and electric vehicles.
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LPG jerry cans
LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a popular fuel option in Australia due to its lower price compared to petrol. It is a fossil fuel with similar characteristics to petrol and diesel, and can be sourced from crude oil or raw natural gas.
When filling a car with LPG in Australia, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, LPG gas should not be carried inside a vehicle unless the vehicle is properly ventilated. LPG cylinders should only be filled with LPG and should never be carried on their side. Additionally, it is important to follow the relevant safety standards and industry codes for LPG.
When using LPG jerry cans, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Jerry cans are typically made of metal or plastic and must comply with Australian Standards for transporting dangerous goods. Metal cans are more durable, while plastic cans are lighter. The total amount of LPG that can be carried in jerry cans is limited to 50L or two 9kg gas cylinders. It is important to use colour-coded cans to easily identify the contents and enhance safety. For example, red is typically used for unleaded fuel, yellow or black for diesel, blue for water, and orange for ethanol.
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LPG filling issues
LPG, or autogas, is a popular choice for car fuel in Australia due to its lower price compared to petrol. LPG is a fossil fuel with similar characteristics to petrol and diesel. However, there are some issues and disadvantages associated with its use.
One of the main issues with LPG is the potential for damage to cylinders during mechanical handling operations. This has been addressed by the LP Gas Association, which has published guidelines for the proper storage of full and empty LPG cylinders to minimise the risk of damage.
Another issue with LPG is the higher fuel consumption compared to petrol. This negates some of the cost savings associated with its lower price. Additionally, LPG systems can result in reduced boot space and ground clearance for SUVs, which can be impractical and affect the driveability of the vehicle.
The availability of LPG is also becoming more limited in Australia. The end of government subsidies, such as the $2000 rebate introduced by the Howard government in 2006 to convert cars to LPG, has contributed to this decline. The introduction of an LPG fuel excise in 2011 further reduced the cost benefits of LPG. As a result, service stations offering LPG have become less common, especially in regional areas.
Furthermore, LPG has been losing popularity due to the emergence of more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles, which offer similar running cost and environmental advantages.
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Frequently asked questions
Filling your car with LPG is a simple process. First, unscrew the filler cap, then remove the bowser and screw the bowser nozzle to the fuel tank/pipe opening until it is secure. Fill the tank and once it is full, unscrew the nozzle. You will hear a small popping sound, but there is no need to worry.
The pump will automatically cut off when you reach 70-80% of the tank's rated capacity. The tank should be full at 68 litres from empty.
LPG, or autogas, is a blend of propane and butane. It is a fossil fuel, similar to the fuel in gas cylinders used for barbeques.
LPG is added to after it has been refined to give it a distinctive smell, so leaks can be detected. Always wear protective gloves when filling your car with LPG and be aware that if the valve in the filler fails, you could experience a severe cold burn.
