abracadabra
Well-Known Member
Once again this widely misunderstood topic has come up. So I thought I'd try to shed some light on the subject.
20 pound Propane tanks
While these tanks technically have the capacity to hold 20 lbs most all propane tanks are only filled to 80% capacity with LP (liquid propane)that equals 16 lbs for a 20 lb tank the other 20% is gas. In many states it's the law because of safety concerns.
EDIT: Also it is apparently a DOT requirement for portable tanks.
Here's a piece that explains it a little better:
http://arfarfarf.com/fire/articles/propane_weight.php
They do the same thing with large stationary tanks that are built with steel 1/4 in. thick. The propane company will only put 400 gal in my 500 gal tank.
LP weights 4.2 lbs per gal at 60*F so you get slightly less than 4 gal per 20 lb tank.
20 pound Propane tanks
While these tanks technically have the capacity to hold 20 lbs most all propane tanks are only filled to 80% capacity with LP (liquid propane)that equals 16 lbs for a 20 lb tank the other 20% is gas. In many states it's the law because of safety concerns.
EDIT: Also it is apparently a DOT requirement for portable tanks.
Here's a piece that explains it a little better:
http://arfarfarf.com/fire/articles/propane_weight.php
They do the same thing with large stationary tanks that are built with steel 1/4 in. thick. The propane company will only put 400 gal in my 500 gal tank.
LP weights 4.2 lbs per gal at 60*F so you get slightly less than 4 gal per 20 lb tank.