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FOREWORD

These specifications generally define physical properties and characteristics of liquefied petroleum gases (LP-Gas) which make them suitable for private, commercial, or industrial applications. These specifications do not purport to specifically define all possible requirements to meet all possible applications. Therefore the user is cautioned to exercise judgement in formulating final specifications for specific applications.

The Gas Processors Association, its management, and supporting companies claim no specific knowledge of how manufacturers and users will produce, handle, store, transfer or consume the products defined herein and therefore, are not responsible for any claims, causes of action, liabilities, losses or expenses resulting from injury or death of persons and/or damage to property arising directly or indirectly from the use of LP-Gas or these specifications relating to LP-Gas.

LP-gases are composed of hydrocarbon compounds, predominately propane and butane, produced during the processing of natural gas and also in the conventional processing of crude oil. The composition of LP-gases may vary depending on the source and the ratios of propane and butane content. They exist as gases at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperatures, but are readily liquefied under moderate pressures for transportation and utilization

There are many uses for LP-gases, the major ones being as (1) petrochemical, synthetic rubber, and motor gasoline feedstocks, and as (2) commercial, domestic and industrial fuel. The following may be accepted as a general guide for the common uses for the four fuel types covered by these specifications:

Commercial Propane is the preferred fuel type for domestic, commercial and industrial fuels. It is also a suitable fuel for low severity internal combustion engines.

Commercial Butane is used principally as feedstock for petrochemicals, synthetic rubber, and as blending stocks or feedstocks in the manufacture of motor gasolines. Its use as a fuel is generally limited to industrial applications where vaporization problems are not encountered; however, small quantities are used as domestic fuel.

Commercial Butane-Propane Mixtures cover a broad range of mixtures, which permits the tailoring of fuels or feedstocks to specific needs.

Propane HD-5 is less variable in composition and combustion characteristics than other products covered by these specifications. It is also suitable as a fuel for internal combustion engines operating at moderate to high engine severity.