Understanding Your Propane Tank

Propane tanks have a multitude of connections including valves, gauges and other
attached appurtenances that look interestingly complex. We'll introduce you to your
propane tank in this section and provide explanations for the necessity and functionality
of each of these connections. Every single piece and part of a propane tank serves a
specific purpose designed for safety and consumer protection.

The primary focus of this section is ASME propane tanks that are filled on site at a
residential or commercial installation. If seeking information on DOT cylinders or other
bottles, see propane cylinders.

Propane Tanks Standards

Propane tanks come in many different sizes and are manufactured by many different
companies around the globe. These tank manufacturers are required to adhere to the
ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) rules for construction of propane
pressure vessels intended for use within the United States. The rules in the U.S. are
generally more stringent than in other countries with regard to the fabrication of LP Gas
pressure vessels. Rules governing the installation of propane tanks are enforced at the
national, state, and local levels ensuring all applicable codes and regulations are
adhered to for the safety and protection of consumers and the general public. Similarly,
propane tank design and appurtenance engineering is undertaken with safety,
protection, service and efficiency in mind.

Basic Propane Tank Requirements

Several things that customers should know about their propane tank easily seen
without having to know the technicalities of propane tanks and the regulations tanks
are subject to. Listed below are simple tank related safety and compliance items
consumers can see for themselves without having to know technical details.

 Manufacturers Nameplate - Containers without nameplates are not permitted to be

filled
 Tank Paint Color - Propane tanks are required to be painted a reflective color
 Regulator Position - Propane regulator must be covered and protected or pointed
vertically down
 Level Placement - The tank must be placed above the soil and on level ground

Propane Tank Parts

The visible parts of the propane tank as shown in the picture above play a vital role in
the usability and serviceability of the gas tank. All of these parts are attached to the
tank at the manufacturer with threaded fittings. These specialized propane tank parts
consist of the following replaceable fittings and connections.

 Fill Valve - Point at which hose from delivery truck is attached to the tank for re-
fueling
 Relief Valve - Safety relief mechanism designed to vent propane in an over-
pressure situation
 Service Valve - Point at which propane is converted to vapor for use with
appliance(s)
 Fixed Liquid Level Gauge - Indicates the level of propane is at or above 80%
capacity
 Float Gauge- Presents a visible indication of the propane volume in the tank. Also
called a dial gauge
 Vapor Return Valve - Connection used during propane delivery to remove excess
tank pressure
 Liquid Withdrawal Valve - Used to withdraw liquid propane from the tank

Tank Manufacturers Nameplate

A manufacturers nameplate is the one thing that identifies a propane tank as unique
and also provides all pertinent information about that particular tank. The
manufacturers nameplate serves several purposes, the primary being to identify the
tank as a propane tank.

The nameplates discussed here 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 United States. The ASME is the
governing authority for all stationary propane tanks manufactured and used in the
United States.

Important Nameplate Information

One of the most important things that a propane tank has to have is the manufacturers
nameplate made of stainless steel. All of the connections can be replaced on a tank if
needed but if the nameplate becomes unreadable or comes off of the tank, the tank is
officially anything but a propane tank. Without a legible nameplate, a tank is
condemned and cannot be used any further in propane service. Propane dealers often
see people buy propane tanks from a flea market or out of the back of somebody's
pickup truck for a relatively good 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

In addition to the nameplate being legible and permanently attached to the tank, the
following must be displayed on the manufacturers 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 (pictured below)

Nameplate Care and Protection

Protection of the tank nameplate is essential 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. The images
below show a raised nameplate (left) and a continuously welded nameplate (right)
which are the most commonly found on propane tanks in service today. 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.

Propane Tank Colors - Can I Paint My Tank?

The answer to this question is yes. Can you paint it any color you want? No. NFPA 58
states that propane containers must be painted a heat reflective color. Most state
regulatory agencies have their own rule addressing this particular issue but the national
code declares that LP Gas containers must be painted a heat reflective color unless
installed in an extremely cold environment.

What color can I paint my propane tank?

All too often propane customers take it upon themselves to paint their tank a color that
complements the colors of their home or landscaping. This presents a safety problem
as well as a serviceability problem if the tank color is dark or non-reflective. Dark colors
absorb heat while lighter colors reflect it. Have you ever worn a dark colored shirt on a
sunny day? A dark shirt on a sunny day will give you a lot more warmth than a white
shirt will. The principle is the same with LP Gas tanks as the last thing any propane
tank needs is to absorb heat. Perhaps a better example is walking barefoot on the
concrete sidewalk and stepping onto the asphalt street on a hot sunny day. Concrete
sidewalks are fairly light in color (heat reflective) while asphalt streets and roads ar
dark in color (heat absorbent). The sidewalk is much more bearable to walk on while
the asphalt road can be quite painful. Propane tanks need to reflect heat, not absorb it.

The entire reasoning behind propane tank color involves pressure and some simple
laws of chemistry that apply to fluids and gases when they are heated. The law "as
temperature increases, volume increases" applies and can be seen in this explanatory
animation from NASA. Because propane exists as both a liquid and a gas within the
tank, the absorption of heat due to a non-reflective color creates the possibility of a
high pressure situation that may cause the safety relief valve to open. The bottom line
is this:

Dark (Non Reflective) Propane Tank = Absorbed Heat = Propane Expansion =

Relief Valve May Open

Rust Colored Propane Tanks

Below are actual photos of propane tanks that have excessive rust and are subject to
over-pressure. In fact, rust is a color and will contribute to the absorption of heat.
Rusted tanks pose another problem, pitting. Pitting occurs when a tank is excessively
rusted and the surface of the tank is compromised. The rust will actually eat away at
the surface of the tank. Tanks that are rusted often need to be sanded or scraped with
a wire brush before they are painted.

Propane Regulators
The propane gas regulator is one of the most important parts of a propane gas system.
The purpose of the regulator is to control the flow of gas and lower the pressure from
the tank to the appliance(s) in the gas system. The regulator not only acts as a control
regarding the flow and distribution of propane but also as a safety barrier between the
high pressure of the tank and the end use appliance(s). Most will rightfully argue that
the LP Gas regulator is the heart of any propane gas system.

Regulator Purpose
Propane tank pressure can range from under 10 psig to over 200 psig. Residential
applications will generally 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. Not all
applications are similar to that of residential use and will therefore utilize regulators for
higher and lower pressures as required by the appliance(s). In summary, the purpose
of a propane regulator is to "bottleneck" the propane down to a safe and usable
pressure. An important point to note is that under normal operation, a propane
regulator will make a "humming" noise. This is normal and should not be construed as
a problem or regulator malfunction.

Types of Propane Regulators

Although the purpose of propane regulators is the same, 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's 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 regulators include:

 High Pressure Regulators

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

"A regulator is a regulator" is a misleading statement that many consumers believe to

be true. The fact is that installing the wrong kind of regulator will generally render a
propane gas system inoperable. People 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 an improper regulator or
faulty LP Gas regulator installation means the entire installation is illegal and unable to
be serviced until fixed. 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. Don't
put yourself in danger by attempting to buy and install your own regulator. Call
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 part of a propane system, the regulator needs to be protected. Protecting a
regulator, for the most part means keeping it covered. Regulators are generally 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 keeps insects out of the regulator as
some insects, such as the Mud Dauber (a.k.a. Dirt Dauber) will make a nest in a
regulator that's missing its protective vent 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.

Regulators have internal moving parts that are subject to wear and tear and after some
time, the regulator needs 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. The industry norm is 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 important 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.

High Pressure LP Gas Regulators

High pressure LP Gas regulators, like all propane regulators stand between higher
pressure on the inlet side and appliances or equipment requiring a lower pressure on
the outlet side. Red propane regulators signify high pressure modulation and are often
used in combination with a second stage regulator in a two stage regulator system.
However, they can also be used independently in systems where appliance or gas
equipment demands are high and the only way to satisfy requirements is with a high
pressure regulator.

High Pressure Regulator Use

Propane high pressure regulators used independently are servicing high demand
appliances and equipment. While residential applications primarily consist of service
pressures measured in water column (ounces per square inch), 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 use high
pressure regulators because the propane demand is such that delivery pressure must
be high enough to satisfy the appliances demand. Certain high pressure regulators are
designed to work in either propane liquid or vapor service while others are designed to
work in LP Gas vapor service only. The 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 how does
that compare 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 residential tank regulator. Also know that high pressure
regulators can deliver up to 100 psig!

Keep in mind that high pressure regulators vary in design, purpose and pressure
delivery and just because the regulator is red doesn't mean that it's suitable for any
installation requiring high pressure regulation. Just like any other regulator, high
pressure regulators are utilized in accordance with laws, regulations and the
manufacturers recommendations. As described 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 very different.

Adjustable High Pressure Regulators

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. In other
words, an adjustable regulator compensates for the lack of vaporization by allowing
more pressure through the outlet and into the downstream gas line. 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.

Relief Valves and High Pressure Regulators

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 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. Under certain circumstances, high pressure regulators must 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 instance, piping that installed on the outlet side of
a high pressure regulator is itself under high pressure and if the pressure builds 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.

Two Stage LPG Regulator System

First Stage Propane Regulators
First stage regulators serve as a primary means for pressure regulation in a two stage
system. First stage regulators are sometimes referred to as high pressure regulators
(although not true high pressure regulators) because they do not reduce variable tank
pressures to appliance level pressure. They just lower the pressure before it goes into
the gas service line.

Second Stage Propane Regulators

Second stage regulators function to further decrease pressure to a usable level for
appliance demand. These regulators work with the lower pressures delivered by first
stage regulators and in turn, lower the pressure even more so that the propane will
adequately and safely supply the demand of the appliances.

Two Stage Regulator System Overview

The reasoning behind having two separate regulators in a propane system is strictly for
economy of the installation. Integral twin-stage regulators are more commonly used
and are more sensible for most installations but in a situation where there is an
extreme distance between the tank and house or appliance, a two stage regulator
system is often the best option. The reason for this has to do with several things
including pipe size, total service line distance and appliance BTU demand. An 80 foot
run from the propane tank to a house with a total load being over 1,000,000 BTU would
most likely benefit from a two stage system because an integral twin stage regulator
will not supply the propane required that the appliances demand. If the installing
propane company places a regulator at each end of the yard line, it's to save the
customer money, not to make more money for the company by selling two regulators.

To better explain the need for a two stage regulator system, take a gas powered yard
blower (like a leaf blower) with a 2 inch blower tube that is 50 feet long. You'll never get
the same air being pushed out the end of the tube like you would if it were only 3 feet
long. You will get more air flow out of the end of the tube by attaching a much more
powerful blower but as the length of the tube grows, higher powered blowers are
needed. Although this example is crude, it explains how propane pressures over a
great distance drop and in order to satisfy the demand of the appliances, two separate
regulators may be required to deliver the required pressures. The information below
explains both first stage and second stage regulators.

First Stage Regulators - Tank to Line

First stage regulators are installed at the propane tank connected directly to the service
valve with a pigtail. If a first stage regulator is used in an LP Gas plumbing system, a
second stage regulator must be installed downstream. In other words, a first stage
regulator can't be installed independently in an LP Gas system. There must be a
second stage regulator installed as well. The first stage regulator will compensate for
differing tank pressures and will deliver into the gas line at a pressure of 10 pounds or
less. The purpose of a first stage regulator is to deliver propane at an ample pressure
to a downstream second stage regulator. That's its only job...to ensure that the second
stage regulator is supplied with propane at a pressure that it needs to do its job. The
variations of first stage regulators are numerous and while they are all designed to
work with propane tank pressures, the outlet pressures differ by model and
manufacturer. First and second stage regulators must be properly matched so that the
overall gas system is safe and functional. Propane companies work with regulators
every day and are able to determine what size and type of first stage regulator is
needed for the requirements of the installation.

Second Stage Regulators - Line to Appliance

Second stage regulators are not used for decreasing tank pressure and therefore must
be installed downstream of a first stage regulator for safe and proper operation. Any
regulator seen installed next to a building, as pictured above right, is a second stage
regulator. Second stage regulators work with propane at a pressure supplied by the
first stage regulator (inlet pressure) and further decrease that to a pressure that can be
used by appliances (outlet pressure). Most outlet pressures of second stage regulators
are measured in inches water column, such as 11" water column. This is the standard
propane pressure delivered to household appliances so that they can safely and
properly operate. Keep in mind that second stage regulators are not designed to work
with varying tank pressures. Second stage regulators are only designed to operate in
combination with first stage regulators. One cannot work without the other.

Integral Twin Stage LPG Regulators

Twin-stage propane regulators are a combination of both first and second stage
regulators assembled into one unit. Integral twin stage regulators are always installed
at the tank and compensate for varying tank pressures on the inlet side and deliver
steady service line pressure compensating for varying appliance demand on the outlet
side. Integral twin stage regulators are used in propane vapor service only and are the
most common type of regulators used in residential propane gas installations.

Integral Two-Stage Regulator Operation

Unlike two-stage systems, integral twin-stage propane regulators are able to deliver
propane to appliances at required pressure through one single regulator assembly.
Pictured below is an integral twin stage regulator, often referred to as just a "twin-stage
regulator". It incorporates all the functionality of two separate regulators and is primarily
used when the gas service line to the house or appliance covers a short distance and
BTU load requirements are not extremely high. The first stage side consists of the
regulator inlet and is connected to the pigtail at tank pressure. As gas enters the high
pressure side of the regulator it is immediately lowered and delivered to the second
stage side at a lower pressure. The second stage side of the regulator then lowers the
pressure to about 11" water column. Following these two subsequent stages of
pressure reduction, the gas is delivered through the outlet, into the gas service line,
and finally to the appliances downstream.

Important Twin Stage Regulator Information

The use of an integral twin stage regulator is primarily limited to residential applications
and similar applications where extremely high BTU requirements are not a factor. In
gas systems where this type of regulator is installed, it is important to know that this is
the only pressure regulation device between the tank and the house or structure being
serviced. If your propane company recommends replacing the regulator, take this
suggestion very seriously. Although twin stage regulators are designed to commonly
handle less than one million BTU/hr, they are not to be installed on small cylinders. All
propane tank regulators are to be installed by licensed propane gas professionals.

PARTES DEL TANQUE DE PROPANO:

Propane Tank Fill Valve

Propane is introduced to any approved container by the fill valve, also known as the
filler valve. The fill valves allow the liquid to flow in only one direction which is into the
tank. Because LP Gas tank fill valves incorporate backflow prevention, the fill valve is
not suitable for withdrawing propane from within the tank.

Propane Fill Valve

When propane is delivered to a tank, the delivery driver hooks up the hose from the
truck to the propane fill valve. The hose end coupling is screwed onto the filler valve
and seated firmly against a gasket to prevent gas from escaping during the delivery
process. If this gasket is not present in the fill valve, the connection between the hose
and tank will not be secure and the delivery driver will not be able to fuel the propane
tank. This black gasket is visible around the edge of the filler valve wall.
Propane Fill Valve Operation
After the hose coupling is securely attached to the tank fill valve, the valve is hose-end
valve is opened and liquid propane begins to flow into the tank. The pressure from the
gas in the hose alone is enough to open the fill valve. The figure to the left illustrates
the open and closed positions of the filler valve when in use. This is located inside the
tank and is not visible when looking at a propane tank. The part that is outside the tank
also has a one-way valve that opens and closes with the pressure of the hose. This
valve is visible by looking into the valve outside the tank. These two "back flow
prevention" valves ensure that propane is securely stored in the tank opened only
when a delivery is made.

Tank Fill Valve Protection

The protection of the filler valve is very important as it operates as the first line of
supply to your gas system. The purpose of the protective cap is to keep water and
debris from entering the valve. If debris enters the valve, it could keep the discs from
seating properly causing the valve to remain in an open position allowing gas to
escape. Water in the valve can cause the hose end coupling to be frozen onto the filler
valve making it difficult for the delivery driver to disconnect the propane delivery hose
from the fill valve.

Propane Tank Safety Relief Valves

The safety relief valve is one of the most important and vital valves on any LP Gas
container. All propane tanks and cylinders are required by law to be fitted with pressure
relief devices designed to relieve excess pressure. The function of a safety relief valve
is to keep a propane tank from rupturing in the unlikely event of excessive pressure
buildup. Propane tank relief valves are also known as pop off valves, pressure venting
valves or relief valves.
How Propane Relief Valves Work
Relief valves are held in the closed position by the force of a powerful spring. As long
as the pressure inside the tank is less than that of the spring, the valve will remain
closed. If tank pressure rises to that of the spring, the valve will open resulting in a
hissing sound outside the tank. If the pressure in the tank rises significantly higher than
that of the spring, the valve will fully open. When the valve fully opens, it initially makes
a loud pop followed by a blast of released propane gas. Once the pressure is released
and the tank pressure falls below that of the spring, the valve closes.

Internal Pressure Relief Valve

Most propane tanks in residential and commercial service have internal safety relief
valves. The reason for an internal valve as opposed to an external pressure relief valve
is it presents less of an obstruction when moving the tank. Internal relief valves are
generally placed near the end of the propane tank on above ground containers.

External Pressure Relief Valve

Found primarily on older tanks, external relief valves operate in the same manner as an
internal relief valve with the spring mechanism being outside the propane tank itself.
Relief valves on multvalves are always fitted with external safety relief valves. Older
tanks with an external relief valve installed on the container are generally replaced with
internal pressure relief valves, provided they are connected to a dedicated tank
opening specifically designed for the placement of the relief valve.

Important Pressure Relief Valve Information

Because the safety relief valve performs such a vital role in the protection of the
propane tank, it should be maintained and repaired by licensed propane professionals
only. Do not ever look into a relief valve or stand over it.

 Tanks must be empty before relief valves can be replaced.

 Safety relief valves may need to be replaced if they "pop-off", meaning that the
valve has opened.
 A protective cover should be placed over the relief valve to ensure proper
operation. If the valve has debris in the upper mechanism of the relief valve and it
opens, the debris may cause the valve to remain open resulting in a potentially
dangerous situation and/or excessive loss of propane. A simple protective relief
 valve cover can be made from a plastic bag fastened around the external portion of
the valve with a rubber band.
 If a you encounter a relief valve that seems to be "hissing" (opened to relieve
pressure) do not tap it or mess with it. If the tank has been recently filled in hot
weather and the face gauge reads over 80 or 85%, spray some water from a hose
on the tank. This may cool it down and reduce the expansion of the liquid in the
tank. Call your propane company immediately and inform them of the situation.

Relief Valve Problems - A Job for LPG Professionals

Pictured left is a relief valve that was apparently leaking. Instead of calling the propane
company to replace the valve, the customer decided to fix the problem himself. Using a
soldering iron, he soldered the leak until it stopped leaking. In the process of "repairing"
the leak, the customer completely sealed the relief valve in a closed position placing
himself and his family in a very dangerous situation.

In this type of situation, a relief valve that is sealed shut will not allow the tank to vent
excess pressure if it is overfilled or the pressure inside the tank exceeds the working
pressure of the container. In a case where the tank is unable to vent to the outside, the
tank is subject to rupturing causing more harm and damage than money saved by
trying to fix it yourself. Let the propane company or LPG professional handle any
problems with thesafety relief valve.

Propane Tank Service Valve

The tank service valve is the point at which propane vapor enters the gas plumbing
system for use by downstream LP Gas appliances. All ASME propane tanks have a
service valve that functions as a primary shut-off device when used in vapor service
systems. Proper operation of the service valve is important for safety reasons and gas
utilization. If you smell propane in your house, the service valve should be turned
off immediately!

Understanding the Propane Service Valve

The propane service valve is the controlling mechanism allowing propane gas to flow
into the house or building by way of the gas piping system. Although other gas valves
may be present throughout the gas plumbing, the service valve, on the propane tank, is
the valve that controls 100% of the gas flow into the gas system. Basically, propane
service valves function as the "on / off switch" in propane gas systems and is for vapor
service only.

Tank Service Valve Operation

Operation of a propane tank service valve is similar to that of a water faucet . The
operational part of the valve consists of a handwheel that closes and opens gas flow by
turning the wheel clockwise and counter-clockwise. Inside the valve is a stem and seat
that when opened, allows gas to exit the tank and when closed, stops the flow of gas.
Although it may seem that the functionality of a service valve is identical to that of a
water faucet, it is has one very distinct difference - The proper use of propane requires
an LP Gas regulator which reduces the amount of pressure introduced into the gas
service line to a level that is safe and acceptable for the application requirements. In
other words, the service valve is only used for turning the gas on or turning the gas off,
not for regulating the flow of gas.

Service Valve Repair and Replacement

Like all moving parts, gas service valves are subject to wear and tear. When these
essential valves leak, malfunction or fail, they need to be either repaired or replaced.
Repairing a service valve is much easier and cheaper than replacing one but this has
to be performed by a gas service technician. Depending on the age, type and make of
the service valve, repair kits are often available through licensed propane companies
and can be used to replace the faulty parts. These repair kits commonly consist of
several independent parts that may or may not all be used to fix the valve's problem. If
the entire LP Gas service valve needs to be replaced, the propane tank needs to be
completely empty. When repair kits are used to correct a malfunctioning valve part, the
severity of the problem will dictate whether or not a tank needs to be empty when
repairing or replacing the faulty part(s) of a propane tank service valve.

Fixed Liquid Level Gauge - Propane Bleeder Valve

The fixed liquid level gauge, also called the bleeder valve is the one and only gauging
device that accurately depicts the level of propane in the tank when it is being filled.
The face gauge is not to be used during the refueling process. This section will explain
why the bleeder valve is open during the refueling process. Many people believe that
using the fixed liquid level gauge during gas delivery results in a large amount of lost
propane. Even if two cubic feet of propane gas is lost through the bleeder valve, this is
only .05 gallons of gas. At $2.00 per gallon, this would be equal to ten cents worth of
propane expelled through the bleeder valve.

Understanding Propane Bleeder Valves

The bleeder valve is designed so that during the filling process, when the propane
going into the tank reaches 80%, liquid will come out of the opened valve. This lets the
delivery driver know that the tank has reached its maximum filling capacity. The valve
is connected to what is called a dip tube that goes into the container. The dip tube is
fixed and set at length equal to 80% liquid level tank capacity. In other words, the tip of
the dip tube is at the level equal to the container being 80% full. The dip tube itself
should always be located in the vapor space and never submerged in liquid propane.

Fixed Liquid Level Gauge Operation

In simple terms, the fixed liquid level gauge tells the person delivering the propane that
the tank is at the maximum safe capacity. The picture to the left is of a service valve
with the dip tube protruding from the bottom. When installed by the tank manufacturer,
the dip tube is pre-set to indicate when the tank is legally full during the filling process.

Think of it this way: When drinking a soda through a straw, you will not be able to get
soda through the straw if the tip of the straw is above the level of the soda. When the
tip of the straw is in the soda, you are able to drink the soda. A dip tube works along
the same principal as a straw.

Propane Tank Float Gauge

Tank Float Gauge Assembly

The full float gauge assembly as pictured in its entirety. The float is visible at the top of
the picture. The float rises and falls with the level of liquid propane in the tank.

Face Gauge / Dial Gauge

The face gauge, often called the dial gauge is the part of the gauge assembly that is
used to indicate the approximate level of liquid propane inside the tank.

Float Gauge Purpose and Use

The float gauge is for consumer use only. As indicated in the picture to the left, the
float gauge is not to be used for filling as it only gives an approximate tank
percentage and cannot be considered 100% reliable. The fixed liquid level gauge is
used for filling. Tanks with float gauges measure the volume of the tank as a
percentage of the total capacity of the container. If the gauge reads 50% on a 250
gallon propane tank, the tank has approximately, 125 gallons of propane. Many people
think this is a pressure gauge or a gallons gauge (although some older tanks do have
gallons gauges) but it is a gauge that indicates the volume in the tank as a percentage
of the tank's total capacity.

Propane Float Gauge Operation

The float gauge in a propane tank consists of moving parts located both inside the tank
and outside. At the end of the stem is the float (pictured below) that rises and falls with
the level of the propane in the tank. The top of the stem is the pinion gear (pictured left)
that turns the gear in the shaft and causes the dial on the external face gauge to turn.
As stated above, the float gauge is not considered a fully reliable instrument for
measuring tank volume. Float gauges have a number of moving parts that are subject
to wear and tear and can also become ineffective in any part of the assembly. If the
gauge needs to be replaced, the propane tank must be empty. If the face gauge has a
stuck dial, it can be quickly replaced as dial/face gauges use magnets and can be
interchanged without the tank needing to be empty.

Propane Percentage Gauge Converted to Gallons

To convert percentage to gallons, multiply the number displayed on the face gauge (50
means 50% or .50) by the water capacity of the tank. Water capacity can be found on
the tank manufacturers nameplate. The chart below indicates percentages converted to
gallons on common size propane tanks (at 60°F).
Propane Tank Vapor Return Valves

Vapor Equalizing Valves

The vapor return valve is also called the vapor equalizing connection or vapor
equalization valve. Vapor return valves are required on all ASME propane tanks and
will generally be used during periods of hot weather. In the event that liquid must be
evacuated from the container, the vapor return valve will be used.

Propane Vapor Return Valve Operation

The vapor return valve is used primarily to relieve the pressure in the tank being filled
to prevent overpressure and potential activation of the safety relief valve during periods
of hot weather. The vapor hose from the delivery truck is connected to the tank's vapor
return valve during the filling process and the excess pressure is vented back to the
truck. This allows the vapor pressure to equalize between the tank and truck preventing
an over-pressure situation at the tank. Basically, the vapor return valve is a manually
operated safety relief valve that prevents prevents propane from being released into
the atmosphere.
Purpose of Vapor Equalization
If the pressure in a propane tank gets too high, the safety relief valve will open allowing
propane to release into the atmosphere. When propane companies fill tanks on hot
days they will often connect the vapor hose to the vapor return valve. This allows vapor
to be safely recovered and contained in the delivery truck. Many people think that the
propane they are buying is being pumped back into the truck and they are losing gas
that they have just paid for. This is not the case as only the excess vapor pressure is
being relieved from the tank being filled. Think of it this way:

You go to a gas station in the morning and fill your car with gas, place the gas cap back
on the tank opening and drive to work. If you were to go out to your car at lunch and
open the gas cap you would hear a hissing sound as you turned the cap. This hissing
sound would be gasoline vapors escaping from your gas tank and you didn't lose any
gas. It's the same principle with regard to propane but because propane is such a high
pressure gas that will vaporize in the atmosphere, the excess pressure is removed
during the filling process.

The vapor removed from the tank through the vapor return valve is much less than if is
removed through the safety relief valve.

Liquid Withdrawal Valve

The liquid withdrawal valve is often known by its manufacturers given name such as
Chek-Lok or Checkmate. However, the proper name is "actuated liquid withdrawal
excess flow valve" and it serves a vital role in propane tank liquid evacuation. It also is
used in other applications requiring the use of liquid propane.

Do not attempt to extract liquid from a propane tank through this valve. Contact
your propane company concerning the operation of the propane tank liquid
withdrawal valve.

Propane Liquid Withdrawal Valve Operation

The liquid withdrawal valve functions only with additional specialized fittings supplied
by a propane company for liquid evacuation. Without these required fittings, the liquid
withdrawal valve is unusable. The liquid withdrawal valve is attached to the tank and
itself is in the vapor space.The diptube that reaches the bottom of the tank is in direct
communication with the liquid space of the propane tank which allows it to be used for
liquid propane service or liquid withdrawal. The valve itself is consists of a powerful
spring holding a seat disc in a firmly closed position. The seat disc (left) is opened by
attaching a second valve to the exterior of the liquid withdrawal valve outside the tank.
This secondary valve is available only through a licensed propane company. Once the
liquid withdrawal valve has been successfully opened by attaching the second valve to
the exterior portion of the liquid withdrawal connection, propane liquid can be
withdrawn. The liquid withdrawal valve has a safety mechanism built in called an
excess flow valve. If the flow of liquid reaches a rate in excess of its design, the valve
will close, hence the name "excess flow valve".

Liquid Withdrawal Valve Uses

Used primarily by propane companies, the liquid withdrawal valve allows the tanks to
be emptied of liquid propane before they are transported or moved. They are also used
in consumer applications as a means for refueling portable cylinders. The valve
attached to the liquid withdrawal valve is used as a service valve in this capacity. The
hose and hose-end fittings allow propane liquid to be transferred into smaller tanks and
cylinders for use on forklifts, gas grills or other appliances utilizing propane cylinders as
an energy source. This actually makes a domestic ASME container into more of a
distribution supply source.

Propane Tanks Explained

Below is a top-down picture of a 250 gallon above ground propane tank and a top
down view of an underground 250 gallon propane tank. Each tank connection is
labeled with its name. Clicking on the name of the part will take you to the connection's
corresponding page that explains and details the part's functionality and operation.

Propane Tanks - Tank Connections Overview