Use of Texas High Pressure Regulator

Texas Propane high pressure regulators utilized independently are servicing high demand appliances and equipment. Residential applications primarily consist of service pressures measured in water column (ounces per inch), but high demand propane equipment utilizes service pressures measured in pounds. High capacity and demand equipment such as roofing tar kettles, crop dryers and industrial boilers will utilize high pressure regulators because the Texas propane demand is such that delivery pressure must be high enough to satisfy the appliances demand. Specific high pressure regulators are designed to work in either Texas propane liquid or vapor service while others are designed to work in LP Gas vapor service only. The Texas propane delivery capacities of these high pressure regulators satisfy BTU ratings up to 10,000,000 BTU/hr and even higher! This means that the usage can be in excess of 110 gallons per hour and supplying that amount of gas at a constant level requires high level pressure regulation. So, in comparison to a residential tank regulator that supplies 11″ water column, a 10 psig regulator delivers pressure of about 277″ water column, or 25 times the amount delivered by a standard Texas residential tank regulator. Also, keep in mind that high pressure regulators can deliver up to 100 psig!

It is important to know that Texas high pressure regulators vary in design, purpose and pressure delivery and just because the regulator is red does not mean it is suitable for any installation requiring high pressure regulation. Similar to any other Texas regulator, high pressure regulators are utilized in accordance with laws, regulations and the manufacturers recommendations. As mentioned above, it is safe to say that regulators are not all the same as all high pressure regulators are not all the same. They are, in fact, all extremely different.

Texas Adjustable High Pressure Regulators

Texas LP Gas flow pressure adjustment in high pressure propane systems is made possible by direct operated regulators, another name for adjustable high pressure regulators. The primary purpose of an adjustable regulator is to ensure that the required pressure is delivered to the appliance when the liquid level of the tank (or cylinder) is such that vaporization is not fast enough to meet the gas demands of the appliance. Simply put, an adjustable regulator compensates for the lack of vaporization by allowing more pressure through the outlet and into the downstream gas line. Texas adjustable high pressure regulators are commonly seen attached to bottles and tanks supplying roofing tar kettles, asphalt mixers and on propane powered torches. Direct operated regulators are not designed to act as a service valve but rather to allow for the manual intervention in the regulation of delivery pressures as needed by the appliance.

Texas Relief Valves and High Pressure Regulators

Texas LP Gas systems operating with high pressure lines downstream of the regulator sometimes require additional protection due to the possibility of excessive pressure buildup in the piping. Unlike other Texas propane regulators that incorporate an internal relief valve as part of the regulator functionality, some high pressure regulators do not have relief valves or vents built in (and are designed as such) because of their intended application. In specific situations, Texas high pressure regulators are required to be fitted with a pressure relief valve or the downstream piping must be fitted with a safety relief valve. The reason for additional relief valves is due to the high pressures these gas lines are subject to, even with a regulator. For example, piping that installed on the outlet side of a high pressure regulator is itself under high pressure and if the pressure increases to an excessive level, the piping joints and connections can form leaks due to pressures beyond what they are designed to withstand. A supplemental relief valve installed at the regulator or in the piping itself will vent excessive gas line pressure before a leak can form at any of the pipe interconnections and fittings.

These are just a few important things to know about high pressure LP gas propane regulators. Contact Texas Propane with the link below for more information!

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Purpose of Propane Regulators

Propane tank pressure can range from under 10 psig to over 200 psig. Typically, residential applications will require 11 inches water column (amount of pressure required to push a column of water up 11 inches in a manometer, or about 6.3 ounces per square inch) and the regulator compensates for these pressure differences in the tank to supply a steady flow of required pressure to the household appliances. However, not all applications are similar to that of residential use, so they will utilize regulators for higher and lower pressures as required by the appliance(s). Simply put, the purpose of a propane regulator is to “bottleneck” the propane down to a safe and usable pressure. It is important to note that under normal operation, a propane regulator will make a “humming” noise, which is normal and should not be construed as a problem or regulator malfunction.

Types of Propane Regulators

The purpose of propane regulators is the same, but different applications require different types of regulators. Regulator selection is determined solely by the propane application requirements. The demand downstream of the regulator is what determines what type of regulator is to be installed and where it is to be placed within the system. Some propane systems incorporate multiple regulators for efficiency while others such as a grill need only a low BTU grill regulator. Types of propane regulators include:

• High Pressure Regulators
• First Stage Regulators
• Second Stage Regulators
• Integral Two-Stage Regulators
• Adjustable High Pressure Regulators
• Automatic Changeover Regulators

Installing the wrong kind of regulator will typically render a propane gas system inoperable. Many don’t realize that buying an LP Gas regulator from a friend or an internet site will more than likely result in wasted money. Regulators aren’t all the same regardless of what one may think and improper regulator or faulty LP Gas regulate installation means the entire installation is illegal and unable to be serviced until fixed. It is important to keep in mind that replacing the regulator means interrupting the flow of gas and a leak check is required before the gas can be turned back on. Also, do not put yourself in danger by attempting to buy and install your own regulator. Contact your propane company or a licensed LP Gas plumber. It will be safer and cheaper in the long run.

Regulator Protection and Replacement

Like any other part of a propane system, the regulator requires protection. Regulator protection, for the most part, means keeping it covered. Generally, regulators are found under the tank dome or if installed outside the dome, they will have the vent pointed down. The vent is pointed down to prevent rain, ice and debris from entering the regulator. The vent should have a screen that prevents insects from getting in the regulator, as some insects, such as the Mud Dauber (a.k.a. Dirt Dauber) will make a nest in a regulator that is missing is protective screen. Unprotected regulators that are exposed or not pointed with the vent facing down can easily be protected by cutting an empty plastic milk bottle to fit over the regulator until its placement and position can be corrected.

Internal moving parts are involved with regulators. They are subject to wear and tear and after some time, the regulator will need to be replaced. Propane companies can tell consumers when the regulator needs to be replaced due to age or malfunction and the consumer needs to take this advice seriously. Normally, it takes 15 years before a regulator needs replacement while some regulator manufacturers recommend replacement every 25 years. If any regulator has ever been under water, such as on an underground propane tank, it needs to be replaced immediately. One very crucial fact to point out is that although propane regulators may be adjusted by licensed propane professionals, they are not repaired or subject to repair. They are replaced.

These are just a few important things to know about propane regulators. Contact Texas Propane with the link below for more information!

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The nameplates discussed in this article are for identification and information concerning ASME propane tanks. ASME stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers and is the authority for pressure vessel fabrication in the U.S. The ASME is the governing authority for all stationary propane tanks manufactured and used in the U.S.

Important Nameplate Information

One of the most crucial things that a propane tank has to have is the manufacturers nameplate made of stainless steel. If needed, all of the connections can be replaced on a tank, but if the nameplate becomes unreadable or comes off the tank, the tank is officially anything but a propane tank. If there is not a legible nameplate, the tank is condemned and cannot be used any further in propane service. Often times, propane dealers see individuals purchase propane tanks from a flea market or out of the back of somebody’s pickup truck for a relatively price. Or, at least, it seems to be a good price until the propane company comes to install it and discovers that there is no nameplate attached to the tank.

Necessary Nameplate Markings

Not only does the nameplate need to be legible and permanently attached to the propane tank, the following must be displayed on the manufacturer’s nameplate for the propane tank to be serviceable in the United States:

1. Container designed for service type (above or underground)
2. Tank manufacturers name and address
3. Tank water capacity in gallons or pounds
4. Design pressure (working pressure) in PSI
5. Words “This container shall not contain a product that has a vapor pressure in excess of __ PSIG at 100°F”
6. Outside surface area in square feet
7. Year of manufacture
8. Tank shell and head thickness
9. OL (overall length), OD (outside diameter) and HD (head design)
10. Tank manufacturers serial number
11. ASME code symbol

Nameplate Care and Protection

Protection of the tank nameplate is critical for the longevity and usability of a propane tank. Newer propane tanks are fitted with nameplates that are continuously welded to the container while older tanks may have a raised nameplate. Nameplate protection is extremely important and can be taken care of by consumers to ensure the continued serviceability of their propane tank. Keeping the tank nameplate clean, dry and free of rust will go a long way in overall propane tank care. Rusted and unreadable nameplates render a propane tank useless.

These are just a few important things to know about the nameplate on propane tanks. Contact Texas Propane with the link below for more information!

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Causes of Propane Shortage

More Cold Weather

In 2014, the United States was hit twice with a record breaking cold spell, consuming an estimated 640 million gallons more of propane.

Bumper Crops

In the fall of 2013, the corn harvest brought in a record amount of 13.9 billion bushels. With above average rainfall and cooler temperatures, propane used for grain drying was 235 to 285 million gallons higher than the previous year.

Export Consumption

Propane exports jumped from 2.6 billion gallons in 2012 to 4.5 billion gallons in 2013 following terminal expansions that came online.

Production Constraints

A major source of propane for Midwest markets was shut down for three weeks of repair. Also, several refineries had been out of commission for routine maintenance and other issues. Canadian shortages also impacted supply as well.

So, is There a Propane Shortage Today?

With industry efforts and those from state and federal levels, supply levels have seen significant improvements recently. As a result, pressure has been taken off and the prices have since lowered. Propane is currently an important aspect of American’s energy mix and has been for more than a century, as it is a byproduct of natural gas processing and oil refining. Since this shortage, propane has gained more popularity with users because of it is clean, American, abundant and affordable.

Controlling the weather may not be an option, but finding a reliable propane company is. Texas Propane knows that getting needed propane for homes and businesses is critical to operations and daily life. When it comes to the benefits of working with a customer-focused propane company, there are no shortages. Contact Texas Propane with the link below for more information to get your propane tank installed today!

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Maintaining Pressure is Key

Fluid level and temperature maximize pressure in a propane tank. There are a few situations that can cause your propane tank to freeze, including:

• When the tank is low or not full and it’s cold outside, and the pressure drops
• Temperatures below -44°F, the boiling point of propane, means it cannot vaporize, making the product unusable.
• If your tank is drawing more pressure than it is designed for, or drawing too much pressure in a short period of time.

Safe Heating Methods

Keeping your propane tank full is one safe heating methods. There are a couple of other safe heating methods to maintain the tank pressure and keep it from freezing. Fuel use will be more efficient if the tank is operating properly.

Insulated Heating Blanket

If you simply plug in an insulated heating blanket, this allows you to safely and easily control temperature and pressure.

Gas Cylinder Heaters

Gas cylinder heaters provide a uniform barrier of heat across the entire cylinder.

Heating Practices Not Recommended

It is important to know of more conventional methods that have been used, but are quite dangerous and not recommended. Propane is much safer than some other fuel sources, but it is still flammable and should never be exposed to open flames or an uncontrolled heating source. Heating practices for your propane tank that we do not recommend include:

• Hot water
• Tank submerged in water with boiler underneath it
• Blow torches
• Space heater

Winter Tank Maintenance Tips

With an operational tank, there are a few other tips for good winter maintenance that will keep your family and your business safe and warm through the cold winter months.

1. Mark the location of your propane tank with a flag or stake that will be visible in the case of snow.
2. Clear any snow or ice from off or around the tank with something soft, such as a broom. Anything made of hard metal or plastic, such as a shovel, should not be used for this.
3. Do not use a snow blower near the meter.
4. Keep valves, piping and the meter clear of snow and ice.
5. Check regulator vents to be sure they are not clogged.
6. Clear snow and ice from all outdoor vents, chimneys and flues.

These are just a few ways to keep your propane tank from freezing this winter. For more winter preparation tips, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below!

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Securing Above Ground Propane Tanks

Reinforcing an above ground propane tank in a flood prone area is something that warrants discussion with your propane dealer and possibly further protective action. However, if your home is on top of a hill overlooking a valley, propane tanks are likely protected from flooding due to their elevation and high water precautionary measures probably aren’t crucial. The following preparations can be made at the time of installation and for the most part should be sufficient for protection against flooding:

• Verify that the propane tanks complies with all LP Gas container distance requirements.
• Ensure the propane tank is not in a location prone to flooding and high water such as next to a dry creek bed.
• Secure the tank with anchoring cables on a solid foundation such as a concrete pad or blocks.
• Ensure the regulator vent is adequately protected.
• If you believe that your tank is subject to flotation, contact your propane company for a qualified recommendation.

Propane tank anchoring products are provided by LP Gas retailers. Tank anchoring products are generally special order items and can be installed by the propane company’s service department. Although propane cylinders can float away, they do not require special anchoring products and can be secured against flotation by cables or by relocation to higher ground. The best advance preparation for flooding is selecting container location during the propane tank installation process.

Propane Tanks and Flood Preparation

Watching the weather forecasts and staying informed of rising waters is the first step in preparing for the possibility of a flood. If surrounding waters begin to rise, action needs to be take to protect your propane tank, cylinders and LP Gas system. It is important to always listen to emergency response personnel and follow evacuation orders exactly as given. Securing propane tanks and related preparations in flood situations should be only as time allows. Several things to do in anticipation of high water include:

• Have your propane tank filled when rainy weather is on the way. The tank will not float if the water level is below that of the propane liquid level.
• Take a picture of your propane tank manufactures nameplate. It may be good to have a picture in cause your tank is recovered after floating away.
• Secure your LP Gas tank (above ground tank) to a nearby tree with a chain or cable by running it through the legs or lifting lugs of the tank.
• Close the propane tank service valve by turning the handwheel clockwise.
• Move propane cylinders to a location where they will not be affected by high water and subject to floating.
• Do not relocate cylinders to a garage or indoors.

If flooding causes a propane tank to break away from its location, any gas in the container will be lost if the service valve is not closed. Flood waters are a lot more powerful than the strength of connecting pip or tubing and can easily cause a tank to float off its foundation if unsecured. In addition, if the tank has no gas or is empty, it will float a lot easier and a lot farther if there is nothing to stop it. For instance, an empty propane tank will float much easier in shallow water than a tank full of gas, if the full tank floats at all As a result, keeping a propane tank full will act as an anchor itself provided high waters does not rise above the liquid level in the tank.

Propane Tanks After a Flood

Following a flood or high water event, the urge to inspect everything and evaluate damage is only natural, but there are certain things to consider and steps to be taken prior to starting propane gas service if your tank appears to have safely weathered the flood. These are strictly for the safety of you and your family, so make sure that all propane related issues are handled by a licensed propane company. Additional safety precautions include:

• If you smell propane gas, leave the area immediately and contact your propane company or fire department to inform them of the situation.
• Do not open your propane tank service valve. A propane leak test is required before the gas system can be placed back into service.
• If your propane tank has moved, do not attempt to move it. This is a job for LP Gas professionals.
• Notify your propane company if flooding occurred in your area and you were ordered to evacuate.

Propane companies, such as Texas Propane, will respond promptly upon notification of propane tanks and homes affected by flooding. Make sure that you inform your propane company of your return if you were ordered to evacuate. Contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below for more information!

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Propane and Hurricane Preparation

The effects of hurricanes along coastlines can be devastating to rural and urban areas alike. No matter how prepared you think you are in anticipation of a hurricane, these storms have a mind of their own and are not selective when doing out damage. Propane tanks are at the mercy of these severe storms in terms of storm surge, extreme winds and flooding. There are some precautions that can be taken in advance of a hurricane, but they should be planned for well in advance of hurricane season. In other words, permanently securing a propane tank should occur outside of tropical storm months and hurricane season.

Location and proximity to coastal areas such as bays and beachfront’s will likely be taken into account during propane tank installation by your propane company. Hurricanes deliver damages through different means (wind, flooding, etc.), the hour winds coupled with a forceful, high level storm surge, so propane tanks will likely be at the mercy of the fierce storm. However, this is only the case in locales directly adjacent coastal areas where homes and businesses are exposed to these severe conditions as well and chances are, a structure will fare better than a propane tank. Farther inland, however, where hurricanes still cause severe damage, propane tanks will typically fare better due to the absence of a storm surge and tidal flooding. It is much easier to prepare for this type of hurricane activity where residents aren’t subject to mandatory evacuations. Prior to evacuating, residents should adopt similar procedures to that of propane tanks and flooding preparation.

Propane and Tornadoes

Similar to hurricanes, severe thunderstorms will spawn tornadoes causing severe damage to anything in their path. Tornadoes have extremely destructive characteristics that can easily pick above ground tanks off their blocks or foundation and throw them hundreds of yards away. For this reason alone, underground propane tanks will sustain the forceful winds associated with tornadoes and will remain even if a structure is destroyed, but what users need to know is that an emergency storm situation with an approaching tornado is no time to be running out to the propane tank to close the valve. Good judgement and concern for life is far above the concern for propane tank security and propane gas related issues. Tornadoes will do as they please and there is really not much that a propane tank owner can do immediately before an approaching tornado. However, the good news is that the probability of being directly hit by a tornado is extremely remote.

Tornadoes are more common in certain geographical areas such as “tornado valley and can be more frequent. Necessary steps should be taken by these areas to avoid possible displacement of above ground propane tanks. Such as similar to securing tanks against flooding, propane tanks can be anchored to the recommendations set out by FEMA. These guidelines are tailored for anchoring propane tanks in floods but will also be effective in anchoring above ground propane tanks in the event of a tornado.

Propane, Tanks and Other Storm Concerns

Additional storm related concerns propane tank owners may have include damage to tanks and cylinders as a result of hail, debris or falling trees or limbs. While these things will likely not affect the container shell or exterior, they could possibly cause damage to fittings or valves under the tank dome. These connections will typically be protected by the tank dome when securely closed. Keep in mind that tank domes should be securely fastened in place on both sides to prevent damage to tank fittings and valves.

Contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below for more information on how you can prepare for severe storms with propane!

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Propane Tanks and Fire Protection

The best way to prepare for a wildfire is in advance. It is crucial to be aware of drought, fire weather watches and fire warnings if your propane tank could potentially be affected. Keeping the surrounding area of a propane tank clear of debris and anything flammable goes a long way in wildfire protection. Making sure that the tank is up off the ground and properly installed on blocks also assists with preventing direct flame impingement upon the propane tank itself. It is ideal to keep a 10′ radius around propane tanks clear of anything that may be used as fuel for a fire, including long and uncut grass, leaves, trash, tires or anything combustible that could be consumed by a fire. Additional steps that can be taken to prevent flame impingement on your propane tank include the following or a combination of:

• Scalp (cut the grass/weeds closely) the area around a tank exposing bare ground.
• Use weed/grass killer around the tank after cutting vegetation to the surface.
• Spreading base material or gravel around the tank to prevent vegetation growth.
• Ensure the propane tank color is reflective and free of rust to avoid initial pressure buildup.
• Ensure that all propane tank distance requirements are satisfied.

Propane cylinders should be stored in a manner similar to that of a large residential propane tank. They should be sitting on a level fireproof surface with the surrounding area clear of debris, tall grass or other combustible material. Since cylinders are portable, they can be moved easily to a new location in the even of a grass fire or wildfire.

Propane Tanks, Fire Weather and Fire Danger

During times of drought and/or low humidity, chances for grass fires and wildfires increase. It’s during these periods that all residents subject to fire danger stay alert of conditions that may impact them and their homes. Watching television and listening to radio stations to stay informed will help keep residents aware of any approaching fire threat. If you have been ordered to evacuate or are in the path of a fire, there are important actions to take prior to leaving the area. These propane specific steps should only be undertaken if time allows and always follow fire evacuation orders as given by authorities and safety personnel.

• Close the propane tank service valve by turning the handwheel clockwise.
• Close all appliance valves and gas valves inside the house(s) or structure(s).
• Do not move propane cylinders into a garage, indoors or anywhere near a house or structure.
• Move propane cylinders away from any house or structure to an area where fire impact will be minimal.
• Contact your propane company to inform them of your evacuation status after leaving the area.

In the case of an approaching fire, all valves should be closed to minimize possible fire damage to the structure(s). If propane valves are left open, escaping LP Gas may cause increased damage to property. Safety relief valves that open during a fire may intensify damage which is one reason why tanks must meet LP Gas container distance requirements and propane cylinders should be moved away from a home or structure.

Propane and Returning Home After Wildfire

If you do have to evacuate due to a wildfire, there are specific steps to be taken upon returning to your home. Hopefully, your home will have sustained no damage and returning to your residence will be a relieving experience, but keep in mind that activating your propane gas supply needs to be handled by the propane company as your LP Gas tank system will need to be inspected. The following factors should be considered before returning home.

• Do not drive your vehicle directly up to your home following a brush fire or wildfire.
• If you smell gas, leave the area immediately. Do not attempt to inspect the situation yourself.
• Do not open any appliance valves, gas valves or propane tank service valves.
• Contact your propane company to inform them of your return.

Propane companies, such as Texas Propane, commonly monitor grass fires and wildfires in our service area and if called about an affected customer or customer propane tank, we will promptly respond. Calls to your propane company concerning propane tanks and grass fires (or any fire) are of the highest priority and are handled accordingly. In addition, because the flow of gas was interrupted when the tank was turned off, a propane system leak test is required. Contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below for more information!

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Propane and Wildfires

Propane and fire do not mix well where wildfires are concerned. When winds are high wildfires can rapidly spread across open country. These fires are not an emergency that be handled and contained by homeowners. However, there are precautions that can be taken to mitigate damage and/or avoid disastrous aftermath altogether. Those who use propane need to be prepared during times when outdoor conditions are conducive to wildfires and wild land fire emergencies.

Propane, Floods and High Water

Flooding associated with rains or rising rivers can result in propane tanks floating or even be washed away. This type of propane emergency is manageable in many cases and can be mitigated through advanced preparation. Outdoor propane systems such as underground piping and fittings will typically be able to withstand moisture associated with flooding but propane tanks (especially above ground tanks) will need some extra attention in advance of a flood.

Propane, Hurricanes, Tornadoes and Severe Storms

While severe weather can disrupt power to homes and businesses, propane appliances can continue to operate despite the power outages. Severe weather such as hurricanes and tornadoes can render LP Gas systems useless if necessary preparations have not been taken. In addition, propane tanks and structures can be damaged further if precautions are not take in certain situations, such as emergency evacuations.

These are just a few of the many cases where extra precautions and preparations need to be taken for propane users. Stay tuned for more information on how to properly prepare for these emergencies and natural disasters. Don’t hesitate to contact us here at Texas Propane if you have any questions or concerns!
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How Did My Tank Percentage Fall So Quickly?

This question is frequently asked during the period immediately following the delivery, or sometimes several days later. Whether the propane tank is being filled partially or completely, the bleeder valve is always used during the delivery process. It is normal for the delivery driver to write the ending percentage on the fuel ticket after the delivery which is often 80 percent, if the tank has been filled. Even if the face gauge reads 75 percent following delivery, the tank is at 80 percent because the bleeder valve indicates the actual propane liquid level (above 80 percent) in the tank, not the face (dial) gauge.

Another case that might seem confusing to propane customers involves tank volume following a propane delivery in the afternoon, which is commonly the hotter part of the day. When propane deliveries are made during the hotter parts of the day, the gas has already expanded before it is delivered into the tank and the gauge may read 80 percent following a fill. A significant percentage drop (up to 5 percent) may be shown if inspecting the tank gauge the following morning, even if no gas has been used. This doesn’t necessarily mean there is a leak. More likely than not, the volume of the liquid propane in the tank has contracted in the cooler overnight hours.

Why Are Two Hoses Used During Propane Delivery?

This is a very commonly asked propane delivery question in warmer climates like Texas. The additional hose is a vapor return hose and will be used on days when the temperature is rising quickly or is expected to be quite high. This hose is used to relieve the excess pressure from the tank being delivered into. Keep in mind that as the volume in the tank increases, the pressure is also rising. As a precaution, the vapor return hose is connected to prevent an over-pressure condition which could result in the release of propane through the safety relief valve. A common misconception is that the second hose is being used counteractively to the fill hose. The vapor return hose does not recover liquid propane from your tank during the filling process. It only recovers excess pressure.

Why is Propane Spewing Out of My Tank During Delivery?

During propane delivery, the fixed liquid level gauge, also known as a bleeder valve, is opened as required by law. The driver is not inadvertently letting gas out of the tank. This valve accurately indicates the level of liquid in the propane tank and lets the delivery driver know when to stop the filling process.

For more information on propane delivery, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below!

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