LPG - the well-known fuel in a reduction firing

What kind of fuel is appropriate for reduction firing? The answer is LPG. Sound familiar? It is actually fuel gas use in most homes.

LPG is suited for reduction firing. Potters should know the following information for safety purpose.

1. LPG is colorless.In case of leakage, the gas is invisible unless it is at high amount of leakage.
2. LPG is odourless.Odourant is added for safety.
3. LPG is not hazardous.Upon complete combustion, carbon dioxide is not produced. However, in case of gas leakage, propane will replace oxygen. Inhaling LPG vapor can cause fainting.
4. LPG is lighter than water but heavier than air. Liquid density is about half that of water. Consequently, the gas will float above water. However, the gas vapor is heavier than air for 2 times.
5. LPG has low boiling point.LPG boils at 0 Celsius. The room temperature is normally at 30-35 Celsius. LPG stays liquid because it is under pressure in a gas cylinder which can be boiled upon released. It becomes gas vapour causing clog at the tip of the cylinder.
6. LPG has high expansion rate.1 unit of liquid LGP expands to equal 270 unit of gaseous LPG. Therefore, liquid LPG leakage is more dangerous than gaseous LPG leakage.
7. LPG has low viscosity which make is easy to leak. Equipment used with LPG must be secured and resistant to high pressure. Standard LPG container must be used with the kiln.
8. LPG components is flammable.The lower and upper limits of flammability are the percentage of LPG that must be present in an LPG/air mixture is 1.5%-9% of the total LPG/air mixture must be LPG in order for it to be combustible.