What is LPG?

Propane is a gas normally compressed and stored as a liquid. It is nontoxic, colorless, and virtually odorless; an identifying odor is added so it can be detected. Propane is commonly used for space and water heating, for cooking, and as fuel for engine applications such as forklifts, farm irrigation engines, fleet vehicles, and buses; however, its applications are rapidly growing due to new technology developments. When used as vehicle fuel, propane is known as propane autogas.

You’ve seen propane tanks at your favorite hardware store, and have probably used it to grill up some tasty food at a summer barbecue. But have you ever wondered how propane is made.

Propane is a fossil fuel that’s found naturally, alongside natural gas and oil. Propane is separated from natural gas during processing, often using refrigeration—so contrary to popular belief, propane isn’t made from natural gas but is extracted from it.

Propane is also extracted from heated crude oil using a distillation tower. Once the propane is isolated, it’s pressurized so it can be stored as a liquid in the cylinders and tanks you see in cages at retail locations nationwide.

Propane is an extremely versatile fuel that is useful in a wide variety of applications. Home propane is commonly used for home heat, cooking, and water heat, especially in rural areas where natural gas isn’t available. Since propane grill tanks are portable, efficient, and powerful, they’re often used in your favorite outdoor spaces for the staple barbecue grilling, for patio heating and lighting, pool and spa heat, and outdoor kitchens. Camping, tailgating, and RV adventures wouldn’t be complete without a portable propane tank for heating, cooking, and powering insect traps!

Many industries use propane to fuel their businesses, such as Builders, Agricultural Businesses and Propane Resellers—to name a few. They use propane powered equipment to dry crops, for building heat, or to power equipment like forklifts, lawnmowers, and so much more.