DOCSLIB.ORG

Propane Basics

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text

Load more

Propane Basics Propane powers nearly 60,000 vehicles in the United States.1 Fleets around the United States have Propane is a popular choice for many fleet vehicle applications, including school, shuttle, paratransit, and transit buses as well as delivery trucks, vans, taxis, law successfully implemented propane enforcement vehicles, and vocational trucks. Photo by Propane Education & vehicles in many types of applications, Research Council. including school buses, shuttle buses, step vans, and law enforcement How is propane produced autoignition temperature, so it takes vehicles. Propane is also frequently and distributed? significantly more heat for the fuel used in off-road applications, such Propane is a byproduct of natural gas to ignite without a flame or spark. as forklifts, commercial landscape processing and crude oil refining. As of Propane tanks are also 20 times more mowers and equipment, and other 2020, more than 93% of the U.S. propane puncture-resistant than gasoline tanks. 2 farm equipment. The advantages supply was produced in North America. Propane vehicle tanks are equipped Propane is shipped from its point of with pressure relief devices that release of propane include its domestic production to bulk distribution terminals fuel in a controlled manner in the availability, performance, and via pipeline, railroad, barge, truck, or event of overfilling, heat expansion, emissions benefits. tanker. Propane marketers then purchase or fire. The National Fire Protection propane at terminals and distribute the Association (NFPA), U.S. Department of What is propane? fuel to customers, including retail or Transportation, and other organizations provide safety guidelines for propane Also known as liquefied petroleum private fueling stations. vehicles, as well as propane fueling gas (LPG), propane is an odorless Chemically identical to conventional equipment.3 A list of applicable codes and hydrocarbon (C H ) gas at normal 3 8 propane, renewable propane is produced standards is available on the Alternative pressures and temperatures. It is the same from biomass-based feedstocks, including Fuels Data Center (AFDC) website (afdc. propane used for residential heating, used cooking oil, animal fats, or 20% energy.gov/pdfs/48612.pdf), and the cooking, and grills. Propane that is dimethyl ether. Renewable propane is Propane Education & Research Council marketed and sold exclusively for use in currently produced in limited quantities at (PERC) provides training on vehicle motor vehicles is sometimes branded as biodiesel refineries. maintenance4 and fuel dispensing.5 Autogas, to reflect that it is measured, taxed, and dispensed as a vehicle fuel. Is propane safe for Fleets implementing propane vehicles But it is virtually identical to conventional should consider maintenance facility propane. When pressurized in a tank to vehicle use? modifications. These may be required 150 pounds per square inch, it becomes a Just like conventional vehicles, based on several factors, including the liquid with an energy density 270 times propane vehicles must comply with degree of repair work done in the facility greater than that of its gaseous form. all applicable regulations, including and the facility’s physical configuration Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and layout. Fleet managers should also be (FMVSS). Compared to gasoline and aware of the applicable codes and engage diesel, however, propane has a higher their local Authority Having Jurisdiction 1 Propane Education and Research Council. 2021. (propane.com) 2 EIA U.S. Propane Production by Source, 2008-2019 (eia.gov/energyexplained/hydrocarbon-gas-liquids/where-do-hydrocarbon-gas-liquids-come-from-in-depth.php) and EIA U.S. Imports of Propane (eia.gov/dnav/pet/hist/LeafHandler.ashx?n=PET&s=MPAIM_NUS-Z00_2&f=A) 3 National Fire Protection Association, NFPA 58, (nfpa.org/codes-and-standards) 4 Propane Autogas Technician Training (propane.com/safety/safety-articles/propane-autogas-technician-training) 5 Dispensing Propane Autogas Training Program (propane.com/safety/safety-articles/dispensing-propane-autogas-training-program) (AHJ) regarding such modifications. The AHJ will also have information about any local requirements regarding the use or storage of gaseous fuels in underground parking garages or maintenance facilities. The PERC website includes informational videos that cover these topics.6 How do propane vehicles work? Propane vehicles have been widely used and refined for decades. • Operation. Propane vehicles operate much like gasoline vehicles with spark-ignited engines. There are two types of propane fuel-injection systems This illustration of a bi-fuel vehicle highlights both the propane and gasoline fuel available: vapor and liquid injection. system components. Photo from AFDC. In both types, propane is stored as a liquid in a relatively low-pressure tank. The liquid injection technology What propane vehicles (CARB) regulations for applicable states, allows more precise control of the fuel are available? and FMVSS for the appropriate vehicle delivery, resulting in improved engine weight classification). For a list of EPA Light-, medium-, and heavy-duty performance and efficiency. compliant propane conversion systems propane vehicles are available for various and engines, see the EPA website at epa. • Performance. A propane vehicle’s applications in either dedicated or bi-fuel gov/vehicle-and-engine-certification/ power, acceleration, and cruising speed configuration. Buyers can purchase lists-epa-compliant-alternative-fuel- are similar to those of a conventionally vehicles through OEM dealerships conversion-systems. fueled vehicle. Bi-fuel vehicles or have existing in-service vehicles have two separate fueling systems, converted to propane. Note that the list is not necessarily enabling the vehicle to run on either comprehensive. EPA adds conversion Certain OEMs also offer propane “prep propane or gasoline. This provides the systems upon request of the system’s packages,” which allow a qualified flexibility of using either fuel, which manufacturer and advises checking the system retrofitter or vehicle modifier typically provides bi-fuel vehicles a list periodically for updates. Customers (QSR or QVM) to install a propane fuel greater range than dedicated propane should ask to verify a manufacturer’s delivery system before the vehicle is or gasoline vehicles. Extra storage EPA or CARB certificate. delivered to the customer. tanks can increase range, but the System manufacturers may perform the tank size and additional weight affect To find available propane vehicles and conversion themselves or work closely payload capacity. Because a gallon of engines, see the AFDC’s Vehicle Search with a QSR/QVM, also referred to as an propane has 27% less energy than a at afdc.energy.gov/afdc/vehicles/search. “upfitter” or “installer.” A well-qualified gallon of gasoline, the fuel economy QSR/QVM will have established of propane vehicles is slightly lower. How can I find reliable procedures, best practices, and technical However, propane has a higher training for the installation process. It pump octane number than gasoline and approved propane is important to understand these and (104–112 compared to 87–92 for conversions? review documentation on conversion gasoline7) and some original equipment Conversion systems must be compliant practices, procedures, and training when manufacturers (OEMs) offer dedicated with all safety and emissions regulations considering any conversion equipment engines optimized to take advantage for the states or regions where the vehicle and services. For more information, of this higher rating. This can result is intended to operate (e.g., emissions consult the AFDC Propane Vehicle in improved performance and fuel certified as compliant in accordance with Conversions page (afdc.energy.gov/ economy over non-optimized engines. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency vehicles/propane_conversions.html) (EPA) or California Air Resources Board or What Fleets Need to Know About 6 Fleet Garaging Requirements (propane.com/safety/safety-articles/fleet-garaging-requirements) 7 AFDC Fuel Properties Comparison (afdc.energy.gov/fuels/fuel_properties.php) 2 Alternative Fuel Vehicle Conversions, Life-Cycle Environmental and Economic Retrofits, and Repowers (afdc.energy. Transportation (AFLEET) tool (greet. gov/files/u/publication/afv_conversions_ es.anl.gov/afleet) helps estimate retrofits_repowers.pdf). petroleum use, emissions, and cost of ownership of light- and heavy-duty Clean Cities coordinators can help vehicles for a variety of fuels. prepare vehicle specification and locate reliable providers to ensure a quality Lower maintenance costs are also often installation. Clean Cities also provides reported, particularly for high-mileage technical assistance to help fleets ensure vehicles. Also, propane’s low-carbon and quality control for converted vehicles. low oil-contamination characteristics may result in longer engine life.8 How much do propane vehicles cost? Is it easy to fuel a While the initial purchase price of propane vehicle? propane vehicles may be several Fueling a propane vehicle is similar to Fueling a propane vehicle is similar thousand more than that of comparable fueling a conventional vehicle and takes to fueling a conventional vehicle conventional vehicles, propane vehicles about the same amount of time. There and takes about the same amount can provide an acceptable return on are minimal concerns around spillage of time. Some attendant training
Recommended publications
  • Vehicle Conversions, Retrofits, and Repowers ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE CONVERSIONS, RETROFITS, and REPOWERS

    Vehicle Conversions, Retrofits, and Repowers ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE CONVERSIONS, RETROFITS, and REPOWERS

    What Fleets Need to Know About Alternative Fuel Vehicle Conversions, Retrofits, and Repowers ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE CONVERSIONS, RETROFITS, AND REPOWERS Acknowledgments This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) under Contract No. DE-AC36-08GO28308 with Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC, the Manager and Operator of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. This work was made possible through funding provided by National Clean Cities Program Director and DOE Vehicle Technologies Office Deployment Manager Dennis Smith. This publication is part of a series. For other lessons learned from the Clean Cities American Recovery and Reinvestment (ARRA) projects, please refer to the following publications: • American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – Clean Cities Project Awards (DOE/GO-102016-4855 - August 2016) • Designing a Successful Transportation Project – Lessons Learned from the Clean Cities American Recovery and Reinvestment Projects (DOE/GO-102017-4955 - September 2017) Authors Kay Kelly and John Gonzales, National Renewable Energy Laboratory Disclaimer This document is not intended for use as a “how to” guide for individuals or organizations performing a conversion, repower, or retrofit. Instead, it is intended to be used as a guide and resource document for informational purposes only. VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES OFFICE | cleancities.energy.gov 2 ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE CONVERSIONS, RETROFITS, AND REPOWERS Table of Contents Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................................5
  • SAFETY DATA SHEET Nonflammable Gas Mixture: Carbon Dioxide / Carbon Monoxide / Nitric Oxide / Nitrogen / Propane Section 1

    SAFETY DATA SHEET Nonflammable Gas Mixture: Carbon Dioxide / Carbon Monoxide / Nitric Oxide / Nitrogen / Propane Section 1

    SAFETY DATA SHEET Nonflammable Gas Mixture: Carbon Dioxide / Carbon Monoxide / Nitric Oxide / Nitrogen / Propane Section 1. Identification GHS product identifier : Nonflammable Gas Mixture: Carbon Dioxide / Carbon Monoxide / Nitric Oxide / Nitrogen / Propane Other means of : Not available. identification Product type : Gas. Product use : Synthetic/Analytical chemistry. SDS # : 002173 Supplier's details : Airgas USA, LLC and its affiliates 259 North Radnor-Chester Road Suite 100 Radnor, PA 19087-5283 1-610-687-5253 24-hour telephone : 1-866-734-3438 Section 2. Hazards identification OSHA/HCS status : This material is considered hazardous by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). Classification of the : GASES UNDER PRESSURE - Compressed gas substance or mixture GHS label elements Hazard pictograms : Signal word : Warning Hazard statements : Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated. May displace oxygen and cause rapid suffocation. May increase respiration and heart rate. Precautionary statements General : Read and follow all Safety Data Sheets (SDS’S) before use. Read label before use. Keep out of reach of children. If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand. Close valve after each use and when empty. Use equipment rated for cylinder pressure. Do not open valve until connected to equipment prepared for use. Use a back flow preventative device in the piping. Use only equipment of compatible materials of construction. Prevention : Not applicable. Response : Not applicable. Storage : Protect from sunlight. Store in a well-ventilated place. Disposal : Not applicable. Hazards not otherwise : In addition to any other important health or physical hazards, this product may displace classified oxygen and cause rapid suffocation.
  • Alternative Fuels, Vehicles & Technologies Feasibility

    Alternative Fuels, Vehicles & Technologies Feasibility

    ALTERNATIVE FUELS, VEHICLES & TECHNOLOGIES FEASIBILITY REPORT Prepared by Eastern Pennsylvania Alliance for Clean Transportation (EP-ACT)With Technical Support provided by: Clean Fuels Ohio (CFO); & Pittsburgh Region Clean Cities (PRCC) Table of Contents Analysis Background: .................................................................................................................................... 3 1.0: Introduction – Fleet Feasibility Analysis: ............................................................................................... 3 2.0: Fleet Management Goals – Scope of Work & Criteria for Analysis: ...................................................... 4 Priority Review Criteria for Analysis: ........................................................................................................ 4 3.0: Key Performance Indicators – Existing Fleet Analysis ............................................................................ 5 4.0: Alternative Fuel Options – Summary Comparisons & Conclusions: ...................................................... 6 4.1: Detailed Propane Autogas Options Analysis: ......................................................................................... 7 Propane Station Estimate ......................................................................................................................... 8 (Station Capacity: 20,000 GGE/Year) ........................................................................................................ 8 5.0: Key Recommended Actions – Conclusion
  • Reducing Air Emissions Through Alternative Transportation Strategies

    Reducing Air Emissions Through Alternative Transportation Strategies

    Reducing Air Emissions Through Alternative Transportation Strategies New Jersey Clean Air Council Public Hearing April 8, 2014 Hearing Chair: Sara Bluhm Clean Air Council Chair: Joseph Constance Editor: Melinda Dower NJ CAC 2014 Hearing Report Page | 1 New Jersey Clean Air Council Members Joseph Constance, Chairman Kenneth Thoman,Vice-Chairman Leonard Bielory, M.D. Sara Bluhm Manuel Fuentes-Cotto, P.E. Michael Egenton Mohammad “Ferdows” Ali, Ph.D. Howard Geduldig, Esq. Toby Hanna, P.E. Robert Laumbach, M.D. Pam Mount Richard E. Opiekun, Ph.D. James Requa, Ed.D. Nicky Sheats, Esq., Ph.D. Joseph Spatola, Ph.D. New Jersey Clean Air Council Website http://www.state.nj.us/dep/cleanair NJ CAC 2014 Hearing Report Page | 2 Table of Contents Page I. INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………………………… 4 II. OVERVIEW ……………………………………………………………………………. 4 III. RECOMMENDATIONS ……………………………………………………….……… 10 IV. SUMMARY OF TESTIMONY† ………………………………………………….…… 14 A. Jim Appleton ………………………………………………..……….…… 14 B. Daniel Birkett ………………………………………………………….… 14 C. Andy Swords ……………………………………….…………………... 14 D. Matt Solomon ……………………………………………………………. 15 E. Julie Becker …………………………………………………..……..…... 16 F. Robert Gibbs, Esq. ………………………………….………………..….. 16 G. William Wells ………………………………………..………………..…. 17 H. Mark Giuffre …………………………………………………………….. 17 I. Jane Kozinski, Asst. Commissioner, NJDEP ……………………………. 18 J. Chuck Feinberg …………………………………………………………. 19 K. Raymond Albrecht, P.E. …………………………………………………. 19 L. Nicky Sheats, Ph.D., Esq.………………………………………………… 20 M. John Iannarelli ……………………………………………………….….
  • Experimental and Analytical Study of Nitric Oxide Formation During Combustion of Propane in a Jet-Stirred Combustor

    Experimental and Analytical Study of Nitric Oxide Formation During Combustion of Propane in a Jet-Stirred Combustor

    NASA Technical Paper 1181 I 1 Experimental and Analytical Study of Nitric Oxide Formation During / Combustion of Propane in a Jet-Stirred Combustor , ' N. T. Wakelyn, Casimir J. Jachimowski, and Charles H. Wilson , TECH LIBRARY KAFB, NM 0134538 NASA Technical Paper 1181 Experimental and Analytical Study of Nitric Oxide Formation During Combustion of Propane in a Jet-Stirred Combustor N. T. Wakelyn, Casimir J. Jachimowski, and Charles H. Wilson Langley Research Center Hampton, Virginia National Aeronautics and Space Administration Scientific and Technical Information Otfice 1978 '8' SUMMARY A jet-stirred combustor, constructed of castable zirconia and with an inconel injector, has been used to study nitric oxide formation in propane-air combustion with residence times in the range from 3.2 to 3.3 msec and equiva­ lence ratios varying from 0.7 to 1.4. The residence time range was character­ istic of that found in the primary zones of aircraft turbines. Premixed propane-air formulations were subjected to intense and turbulent backmixed combustion within the cavity formed between the injector and the hemispherical inner walls of the zirconia shell. The volume of the combustor cavity was 12.7 cm3 and the mass loading was maintained in the range from 0.053 to 0.055 g/cm3-sec. Measurements were made of combustor operating tem­ perature and of nitric oxide concentration. Maximum nitric oxide concentrations of the order of 55 ppm were found in the range of equivalence ratio from 1.0 to 1.1. Nitric oxide concentrations were predicted over the range of equivalence ratio by a computer program which employs a perfectly stirred'reactor (PSR) algorithm with finite-rate kinetics.
  • Morgan Ellis Climate Policy Analyst and Clean Cities Coordinator DNREC Morgan.Ellis@State.De.Us 302.739.9053

    Morgan Ellis Climate Policy Analyst and Clean Cities Coordinator DNREC [email protected] 302.739.9053

    CLEAN TRANSPORTATION IN DELAWARE WILMAPCO’S OUR TOWN CONFERENCE THE PRESENTATION 1) What are alterative fuels? 2) The Fuels 3) What’s Delaware Doing? WHAT ARE ALTERNATIVE FUELED VEHICLES? • “Vehicles that run on a fuel other than traditional petroleum fuels (i.e. gas and diesel)” • Propane • Natural Gas • Electricity • Biodiesel • Ethanol • Hydrogen THERE’S A FUEL FOR EVERY FLEET! DELAWARE’S ALTERNATIVE FUELS • “Vehicles that run on a fuel other than traditional petroleum fuels (i.e. gas and diesel)” • Propane • Natural Gas • Electricity • Biodiesel • Ethanol • Hydrogen THE FUELS PROPANE • By-Product of Natural Gas • Compressed at high pressure to liquefy • Domestic Fuel Source • Great for: • School Busses • Step Vans • Larger Vans • Mid-Sized Vehicles COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) • Predominately Methane • Uses existing pipeline distribution system to deliver gas • Good for: • Heavy-Duty Trucks • Passenger cars • School Buses • Waste Management Trucks • DNREC trucks PROPANE AND CNG INFRASTRUCTURE • 8 Propane Autogas Stations • 1 CNG Station • Fleet and Public Access with accounts ELECTRIC VEHICLES • Electricity is considered an alternative fuel • Uses electricity from a power source and stores it in batteries • Two types: • Battery Electric • Plug-in Hybrid • Great for: • Passenger Vehicles EV INFRASTRUCTURE • 61 charging stations in Delaware • At 26 locations • 37,000 Charging Stations in the United States • Three types: • Level 1 • Level 2 • D.C. Fast Charging TYPES OF CHARGING STATIONS Charger Current Type Voltage (V) Charging Primary Use Time Level 1 Alternating 120 V 2 to 5 miles Current (AC) per hour of Residential charge Level 2 AC 240 V 10 to 20 miles Residential per hour of and charge Commercial DC Fast Direct Current 480 V 60 to 80 miles (DC) per 20 min.
  • Open PDF File, 176.5 KB, for 2018 Mass Clean Cities Annual Report

    Open PDF File, 176.5 KB, for 2018 Mass Clean Cities Annual Report

    2018 Transportation Technology Deployment Report: Massachusetts Clean Cities Expanded Edition March 2019 DRAFT The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Clean Cities program advances the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by supporting local actions to reduce petroleum use in transportation. A national network of nearly 100 Clean Cities coalitions brings together stakeholders in the public and private sectors to deploy alternative and renewable fuels, idle-reduction measures, fuel economy improvements, and new transportation technologies, as they emerge. Every year, each Clean Cities coalition submits to DOE an annual report of its activities and accomplishments for the previous calendar year. Coalition coordinators, who lead the local coalitions, provide information and data via an online database managed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The data characterize membership, funding, projects, and activities of the coalitions. The coordinators also submit data on the sales of alternative fuels, deployment of alternative fuel vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, idle-reduction initiatives, fuel economy activities, and programs to reduce vehicle miles traveled. NREL and DOE analyze the data and translate them into petroleum-use and greenhouse gas reduction impacts for individual coalitions and the program as a whole. This report summarizes those impacts for Massachusetts Clean Cities. To view aggregated data for all local coalitions that participate in the Clean Cities program, visit cleancities.energy.gov/accomplishments.
  • Alternatives to High Propane Prices Interest Expense and the Cost of Utilities Are the Two Largest “Out of Pocket” Expenses Facing Most Broiler Growers

    Alternatives to High Propane Prices Interest Expense and the Cost of Utilities Are the Two Largest “Out of Pocket” Expenses Facing Most Broiler Growers

    ThePoultry Engineering, Economics & Management NEWSLETTER Critical Information for Improved Bird Performance Through Better House and Ventilation System Design, Operation and Management Auburn University, in cooperation with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association Issue No 29, May 2004 Alternatives to High Propane Prices Interest expense and the cost of utilities are the two largest “out of pocket” expenses facing most broiler growers. There is little a grower can do to reduce interest costs, short of major mortgage refinancing. However, costs associated with utilities are another matter. The topics we have addressed in most past issues of this newsletter have all dealt with housing and ventilation factors which can result in improved flock performance and in reduced levels of energy being used, which directly reduces costs to the grower. Electricity rates are typically fixed and are highly regulated. However, the price of heating fuel, specifically propane (liquefied petroleum gas or LPG), has varied widely up and down in most recent years, depending on the time of year and numerous supply and demand conditions. Growers can choose What growers should be aware of is that there are ways to reduce the from several good risk that they will have to buy propane at one of those times when the alternatives to paying price is highest. This newsletter explains several alternative methods consistently high prices growers can use to get lower and more stable propane costs over time. for propane. Understanding the Basics of Propane Pricing The most fundamental factor in propane pricing is that propane is basically a fossil fuel, being derived from raw natural gas during the oil refining process.
  • Safety Data Sheet

    Safety Data Sheet

    SAFETY DATA SHEET 1. Identification Product number 1000007900 Product identifier AUTO GLASS QUICK RELEASE AGENT Company information Sprayway, Inc. 1005 S. Westgate Drive Addison, IL 60101 United States Company phone General Assistance 1-630-628-3000 Emergency telephone US 1-866-836-8855 Emergency telephone outside 1-952-852-4646 US Version # 01 Recommended use Not available. Recommended restrictions None known. 2. Hazard(s) identification Physical hazards Flammable aerosols Category 1 Health hazards Serious eye damage/eye irritation Category 2A Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure Category 3 narcotic effects Aspiration hazard Category 1 Environmental hazards Not classified. OSHA defined hazards Not classified. Label elements Signal word Danger Hazard statement Extremely flammable aerosol. May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways. Causes serious eye irritation. May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Precautionary statement Prevention Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. - No smoking. Do not spray on an open flame or other ignition source. Pressurized container: Do not pierce or burn, even after use. Avoid breathing gas. Wash thoroughly after handling. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Wear eye/face protection. Response If swallowed: Immediately call a poison center/doctor. If inhaled: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. If in eyes: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. Call a poison center/doctor if you feel unwell. Do NOT induce vomiting. If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Storage Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. Store locked up.
  • Fuel Properties Comparison

    Fuel Properties Comparison

    Alternative Fuels Data Center Fuel Properties Comparison Compressed Liquefied Low Sulfur Gasoline/E10 Biodiesel Propane (LPG) Natural Gas Natural Gas Ethanol/E100 Methanol Hydrogen Electricity Diesel (CNG) (LNG) Chemical C4 to C12 and C8 to C25 Methyl esters of C3H8 (majority) CH4 (majority), CH4 same as CNG CH3CH2OH CH3OH H2 N/A Structure [1] Ethanol ≤ to C12 to C22 fatty acids and C4H10 C2H6 and inert with inert gasses 10% (minority) gases <0.5% (a) Fuel Material Crude Oil Crude Oil Fats and oils from A by-product of Underground Underground Corn, grains, or Natural gas, coal, Natural gas, Natural gas, coal, (feedstocks) sources such as petroleum reserves and reserves and agricultural waste or woody biomass methanol, and nuclear, wind, soybeans, waste refining or renewable renewable (cellulose) electrolysis of hydro, solar, and cooking oil, animal natural gas biogas biogas water small percentages fats, and rapeseed processing of geothermal and biomass Gasoline or 1 gal = 1.00 1 gal = 1.12 B100 1 gal = 0.74 GGE 1 lb. = 0.18 GGE 1 lb. = 0.19 GGE 1 gal = 0.67 GGE 1 gal = 0.50 GGE 1 lb. = 0.45 1 kWh = 0.030 Diesel Gallon GGE GGE 1 gal = 1.05 GGE 1 gal = 0.66 DGE 1 lb. = 0.16 DGE 1 lb. = 0.17 DGE 1 gal = 0.59 DGE 1 gal = 0.45 DGE GGE GGE Equivalent 1 gal = 0.88 1 gal = 1.00 1 gal = 0.93 DGE 1 lb. = 0.40 1 kWh = 0.027 (GGE or DGE) DGE DGE B20 DGE DGE 1 gal = 1.11 GGE 1 kg = 1 GGE 1 gal = 0.99 DGE 1 kg = 0.9 DGE Energy 1 gallon of 1 gallon of 1 gallon of B100 1 gallon of 5.66 lb., or 5.37 lb.
  • How Practical Are Alternative Fuel Vehicles?

    How Practical Are Alternative Fuel Vehicles?

    How Practical Are Alternative Fuel Vehicles? Many of us have likely considered an alternative fuel vehicle at some point in our lives. Balancing the positives and negatives is a tricky process and varies greatly based on our personal situations. However, many of the negatives that previously created hesitancy have changed in recent years. Below, we have outlined a few of the most commonly mentioned negatives regarding the two leading alternative fuel vehicle types: Flex Fuel vehicles and Electric/Hybrid vehicles. Then, you can decide for yourself whether one of these vehicle types are practical for you! Cost – How much does the vehicle cost to purchase and operate? Flex Fuel: Flex Fuel vehicles typically cost about the same as a gasoline vehicle.1 For fuel cost, E85 typically costs slightly less than gasoline, however, due to decreased efficiency has a slightly higher cost per mile than gasoline.2 Overall, a Flex Fuel vehicle is likely to be slightly more expensive than a gasoline counterpart. Electric/Hybrid: This situation varies quite a bit depending on where you live. Electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles often cost considerably more than a conventional gasoline vehicle. For example, a plug-in hybrid will cost around $4000-$8000 more than a conventional model.3 However, there are federal rebates and local rebates that can refund thousands of dollars from the purchase price. Electric/Hybrid vehicles also tend to save money on fuel, with the possibility of saving thousands of dollars over the lifetime of the vehicle.4 Whether these rebates and fuel cost savings will eventually account for the higher purchase price can be estimated with comparison tools.
  • Making Markets for Hydrogen Vehicles: Lessons from LPG

    Making Markets for Hydrogen Vehicles: Lessons from LPG

    Making Markets for Hydrogen Vehicles: Lessons from LPG Helen Hu and Richard Green Department of Economics and Institute for Energy Research and Policy University of Birmingham Birmingham B15 2TT United Kingdom Hu: [email protected] Green: [email protected] +44 121 415 8216 (corresponding author) Abstract The adoption of liquefied petroleum gas vehicles is strongly linked to the break-even distance at which they have the same costs as conventional cars, with very limited market penetration at break-even distances above 40,000 km. Hydrogen vehicles are predicted to have costs by 2030 that should give them a break-even distance of less than this critical level. It will be necessary to ensure that there are sufficient refuelling stations for hydrogen to be a convenient choice for drivers. While additional LPG stations have led to increases in vehicle numbers, and increases in vehicles have been followed by greater numbers of refuelling stations, these effects are too small to give self-sustaining growth. Supportive policies for both vehicles and refuelling stations will be required. 1. Introduction While hydrogen offers many advantages as an energy vector within a low-carbon energy system [1, 2, 3], developing markets for hydrogen vehicles is likely to be a challenge. Put bluntly, there is no point in buying a vehicle powered by hydrogen, unless there are sufficient convenient places to re-fuel it. Nor is there any point in providing a hydrogen refuelling station unless there are vehicles that will use the facility. What is the most effective way to get round this “chicken and egg” problem? Data from trials of hydrogen vehicles can provide information on driver behaviour and charging patterns, but extrapolating this to the development of a mass market may be difficult.