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PROPANE FUEL SYSTEM
The fuel system in your recreational vehicle has numerous
components such as, piping, copper tubing, brass connectors,
hoses, regulators and appliances. Each of these components will
be explained in its appropriate area.
Propane is the only fuel permitted to be used in a recreational
vehicle and its appliances. This product is refined from crude oil
through natural gasses. An agent has been added for detection
should a leak occur or a valve accidentally be left open. It is
important for a recreational vehicle owner to recognize and identify
the smell of propane vapor for his or her safety.
Other fuels are available but CANNOT be used in a RV because;
1. No orifices are available for appliances for either butane or natural
gas fuels
2. Butane CANNOT be used below freezing temperature because
boiling point is 30 degrees.
Propane fuel is stored in liquid form under high pressure in special
containers. Boiling point is (minus) — 44°F, the temperature when
vapor ceases to flow. Fuel will change to vapor when released from
the container. Appliances are not designed to operate with liquid.
Liquid will damage o-rings in valves and also leave sticky, oily
residue causing poor or no operation in the regulator.
For every 10 degree increase in temperature, the pressure in
container rise’s 1.5%. Example—fill at 0 degrees in the north, go
south to 80 degrees warmer, you now have container filled at
92%,a potential dangerous problem with 10% valve spiting out
propane vapor.
Propane Container
The propane cylinder is an D.O.T. approved
container to hold liquid under high pressure,
normally a 20 or 30 pound capacity.
The open/closing valve, referred to as an
OPD cylinder valve, is to be closed at all
times unless hooked up to a propane
system or when filling the container.
Valve assembly actually has 3 valves in one
body.
OPD Cylinder Valve
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