There are several types of gas cylinders, which is why it can be difficult to navigate and know which one to choose. We find in particular propane and butane, both packaged in bottles, but which are two different gases. To avoid making any mistakes, we will explain to you how to recognize a propane or butane gas bottle.

Propane gas and butane gas: what are the differences?

Before seeing how to recognize a propane or butane gas bottle, let's take a look at the difference between the 2 types of gas. Both referred to as LPG, liquefied petroleum gas, butane gas and propane gas are derived from petroleum. Although they look similar, they have several differences that must be taken into account.

The composition

If the 2 gases are composed of 70% from the extraction of natural gas fields and 30% from oil refining, their composition is slightly different:

  • Butane consists of 10 hydrogen atoms and 4 carbon atoms;

  • Propane consists of 8 hydrogen atoms and 3 carbon atoms.

Boiling temperature

Out of the bottle, once vaporized, butane gas boils at 0°C while propane gas has a boiling temperature of around -44°C. This means that for butane, you need a temperature above 0 to get a gas flow. In the event of negative temperature, it becomes unusable. Propane can be used down to -40°C.

Pressure

Natural pressure is another big difference between these 2 gases. The pressure of propane gas is higher than that of butane gas: it is 4 times higher.

Storage

The gas is stored in the cylinders in liquid form. To return to its gaseous form, it must not freeze. The butane gas bottle can therefore be stored indoors, provided that the room is well ventilated and away from a heat source, or outdoors if the temperature is greater than or equal to 0° C. We therefore avoid storing it in the cellar, which is a closed room without ventilation.

Propane gas should be stored outside the home, as it can quickly build up pressure and pose a danger. As it resists very low temperatures, this does not pose a problem.

The type of connection

If you can use models of connection pipes and regulators that will be suitable for both a propane gas bottle and a butane gas bottle, it is strongly recommended to opt for specific equipment. This will avoid an incident or a malfunction of the bottle.

Use  

The difference in composition between the 2 gases will cause a difference in use. Propane gas must be used outdoors, since it withstands negative temperatures and works even in freezing weather. For barbecues or heated parasols, this is what you will use.

Butane gas is mainly used indoors, to power appliances that run on gas: gas stove, gas oven, auxiliary heating, etc. It is also possible to use it outdoors, provided that the temperature does not drop below 0 degrees.

How do I know if it is a propane or butane gas cylinder?

Given that the two gases are stored in bottles with a similar shape, how can you recognize a propane or butane gas bottle? To easily distinguish them, look at the color. But be careful, because each LPG supplier decides for itself the color of the gas cylinders which contain propane or butane in order to differentiate them.

To avoid making a mistake, you will need to refer to a table which lists all the existing bottles on the market, with the associated color code. For example: at Butagaz, the propane bottle is gray or red while the butane bottle is blue.

Another way to know how to recognize a propane or butane gas bottle: look at the label affixed to the bottle or the signage present at the retailer. And if in doubt, do not hesitate to ask the seller for advice.

How to connect a propane or butane gas bottle?

Now that you know how to recognize a propane or butane gas cylinder, let's see how to install it. The two are most often connected in the same way:

  • Remove the seal from the bottle;
  • Using a flexible pipe, connect the bottle to the device you wish to power: gas stove, barbecue, auxiliary heating, etc.;
  • Screw or fit the regulator adapted to your type of gas to the flexible pipe, ensuring that the regulator is in the closed position;
  • Then combine the regulator with the gas tap;
  • When the assembly is finalized, you can open the regulator valve and the gas bottle tap.

Point of attention: given that the pressure of propane gas is not the same as that of butane gas, it is important to choose a suitable regulator in order to secure the connection.

Are butane and propane gas dangerous for your health?

Even if some precautions must be taken when using them, these LPG gases do not present a health hazard. In fact, they are not toxic, unless a very large quantity is released in a very small space.

In addition, the 2 gases are odorless, but a chemical additive has been added for safety measures: in the event of a leak, it will be possible to detect them