Gas refil

[VicS]

i think I would always have correct reg to fit bottle and certified for the gas being used, I’m sure that my insurance company would agree, but for gas transfer no reg is needed anyway

That is a 30mb Marine dual fuel regulator. It is suitable for butane or propane allowing either gas to be used simply by changing the cylinder connection or pig tail

The marine (Annexe M) specification includes corrosion resistance externally and internally of parts exposed to the atmosphere, an over pressure relief valve and a drain above the diaphragm

 

[VicS]

On the first point I think it is unwise with UK Camping Gaz cylinders. I've a selection of 907s here and some are stamped 15 bar test pressure whilst others are stamped 12 bar. Given that propane cylinder pressure is around 10 bar at 20-21C that doesn't leave much in reserve for hot days and/or direct sunlight. By comparison Calor propane cylinders are stamped as tested to 30bar.
CG cylinders built for propane do exist though and will have both the butane and propane quantities stamped on the skirt - I've only ever come across these abroad though e.g. in the Alps.
I don't know about using a butane regulator on propane; I've always assumed it would be a dangerous fail. If I were to have a CG cylinder containing propane then I'd use a CG adapter, the appropriate high pressure pigtail and either a propane or universal/bulkhead regulator.

If the appliances are suitable for butane at 29mb or either gas at 30mb a propane regulator, delivering gas at 37 mb, will not be suitable.

Thanks for the figures on test pressures
I'll add another , namely that the maximum inlet pressure for a typical butane regulator is 7.5 bar *

*edited 16/8

 

[mickywillis]

Our local Calor Gas centre charges £24 for an exchange 4.5Kg Butane cylinder, delivered to my works address. TBH, I'm happy with paying that as long as the network is able to supply the exchange bottles!! 4.5Kg cylinders have been hard to come by recently, but supply seems to be improving?

 

[sailaboutvic]

You are not paying for the gas. You are paying for the packaging (conveniently sized bottles, standard fittings) the return & refilling service, the distribution (available outside UK), the safety checks on the bottles and valves.
It's been such a popular service over the last few decades that alternatives are limited.

Not sure greed is the only, nor even the main, factor in the pricing. If you don't like the packaging, just buy your gas in another format. If your boat only takes a 907 cylinder, that's hardly Campingaz' fault.

Thank you for your reply NOT
Other companies also have to do the same as camping gas ie service their bottles .
But you are correct to say I have other choice, which is what I'm doing .
Filling my own bottles for cheap company gas bottles .

 

[Steve_N]

Thanks for the figures on test pressures
I'll add another , namely that the maximum inlet pressure for a typical butane regulator is 16bar

According to the specifications of the propane regulators on the Calor site it's those (i.e. propane regulators) that have a max inlet pressure of 16 bar.
The corresponding maximum for their butane regulators is 7.5 bar (so below propane cylinder pressure).

 

[sailaboutvic]

Our local Calor Gas centre charges £24 for an exchange 4.5Kg Butane cylinder, delivered to my works address. TBH, I'm happy with paying that as long as the network is able to supply the exchange bottles!! 4.5Kg cylinders have been hard to come by recently, but supply seems to be improving?

If I had to pay 24 pound for 4.5kg I probably wouldn't bothered refilling my self but at €42 for half as much gas ,
I be happy to go throught refilling .

 

[VicS]

According to the specifications of the propane regulators on the Calor site it's those (i.e. propane regulators) that have a max inlet pressure of 16 bar.
The corresponding maximum for their butane regulators is 7.5 bar (so below propane cylinder pressure).

My figure came from the BES website. They state 16 bar for both propane and butane regulators. Looks like incorrect information on their website. Obviously something to be aware of if switching to propane.

A dual fuel regulator is the safe option. It is suitable for both gases, delivers gas at the right pressure and builds in the option to fairly easily switch between gases.