v Natural Gas is a composition of hydrocarbons (90% + Methane & rest other Hydro Carbons)
v Its calorific value generally ranges from 8000 kcal/m3 to 9000 kcal/m3
v It is flammable, lighter than air and invisible but produces mist in contact with moist air.
v Important Properties of Natural Gas
|
Physical state
|
Gas
|
| Colour |
Colorless |
| Odour |
Odorless (For easy detection through smell, Ethyl Mercaptan is added as Odorant) |
| Melting point |
-182o C |
| Boiling point |
-161.5o C |
| Vapour density |
- 0.6 to 0.7 |
| Explosive limits |
5 to 15% by volume in air |
| Auto ignition temp |
540o C |
v Physical Properties
It has a limited range of flammability, somewhere in the range of 5% to 15% against 2% for LPG. Natural gas has a higher ignition temperature of approximately 1100 degrees Fahrenheit. Comparatively both petrol and diesel fuel have lower concentrations of flammability and lower temperatures of ignition.
v Fuel density
Natural gas is lighter than air. If natural gas leaks, it has a tendency to rise up in the air. Comparatively both petrol and diesel fuel are dense liquids that tend to pool and are easily ignitable.
v Odor
Raw natural gas is odor less. A distinctive odorant that smells much like sulphur is added prior to distribution. The strong odor makes the presence of a leak very easy to detect.
v Toxicity
Natural Gas is generally considered non-toxic. Inhalation of higher concentration of Natural Gas can cause headache, dullness, breathing trouble and unconsciousness.
Natural gas is very safe, clean and eco friendly fuel.