Propane formula

lchmb

Would anyone by chance know the BTU load in propane for a 100 KW generator? I know there is a formula but for the life of me can't remember it. Thank's in advance....

Mitch_4

not sure if this is what you need

1 Kw = 3413 btu. Propane is 2500 btu/cubic foot, so 100Kw = (3413 x 100)/ 2500 = 136.52 cubic feet of propane.

mitch

Brad White_9

Don't forget

to take into account net output versus gross input. The efficiency of most generators is about 50% fuel value to kW ad this varies between manufacturers, the matchup between engine and generator and other variables such as altitude, temperature, etc.

Best bet is to get an actual cut of the generator being proposed or an array of similar generators from several manufacturers. Otherwise it is only a guess.

lchmb

Thanks

Checked with the manufacturer who indicated to size the line based on a little over 3 million btu's. Appreciate the formula, I know it's here someplace but like my memory I can't locate it right now...Thanks again..

J.C.A._3

Lchmb....

Don't forget to ask the gas company if it can handle the load in the area first! (Take a guess how this lesson was learned!) They made need to upgrade the service to the home/business to make sure all and every appliance can run at the same time.

I can't recall offhand what the pressure numbers were, but I seem to remember that 1 particular model neede 7'WC steady, to run at the appropriate load....not too many utilities supply that much. Chris

lchmb

Thanks J.C.A

Thank's for the heads up but if the pressure's are screwed up my boss will kill me.. I work for the supplier (propane) and we have set a new tank for this. Thanks for the help... Goes to show just how good this site is..:)