LPG vs Diesel and Methane
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LPG vs Diesel and Methane: Which Fuel is Best for Your System?
Introduction
When it comes to choosing the right fuel for a heating system or for an industrial process, it is essential to compare the different fuels in terms of lower calorific value (LHV), combustion efficiency and effective calories. In this article we will analyze the data in the table below to understand which is the most efficient and economical solution between BTZ, diesel, methane, LNG and LPG.
Fuel Analysis: Efficiency and Calorific Value
To evaluate the best fuel, you need to consider three key factors:
- Lower calorific value (LHV) : measures the energy generated by combustion per kilogram (Kcal/kg) or cubic metre (Kcal/m3).
- Combustion efficiency : indicates the percentage of energy that can actually be used.
- Effective calories : energy actually available after combustion.
Here is a comparison of the main fuels used in heating and energy production systems:
| Fuel | Pci (Kcal/kg or Kcal/mc) | Combustion Efficiency | Effective Calories (Kcal/kg or Kcal/m3) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BTZ | 9.565 Kcal/kg | 83% | 7.939 Kcal/kg |
| Diesel | 9.875 Kcal/kg | 85% | 8.394 Kcal/kg |
| Methane | 8,250 Kcal/m3 | 92% | 7,590 Kcal/m3 |
| LNG | 11.935 Kcal/kg | 92% | 10.980 Kcal/kg |
| LPG | 11,000 Kcal/kg | 92% | 10.120 Kcal/kg |
Diesel vs LPG: Which to Choose?
Diesel has always been one of the most used fuels for heating systems and industrial processes. However, LPG offers several advantages:
- Greater energy efficiency : LPG has a Pci of 11,000 Kcal/kg , higher than that of diesel (9,875 Kcal/kg). Furthermore, with a combustion efficiency of 92% , LPG provides 10,120 Kcal/kg of effective calories , compared to the 8,394 Kcal/kg of diesel .
- Lower polluting emissions : LPG is a cleaner fuel, with reduced CO₂ and particulate emissions compared to diesel.
- Lower operating costs : Thanks to its greater efficiency, LPG allows you to save on consumption. In addition, many companies offer incentives for converting from diesel to LPG.
- Storage and versatility : LPG can be stored in tanks and used even in areas not served by the methane network.
Methane vs LPG: What's the Difference?
Natural gas is a popular option for domestic and industrial heating, thanks to its competitive cost and widespread distribution network. However, LPG has some important advantages:
- Higher energy density : methane has a PCI of 8,250 Kcal/m3 , while LPG reaches 11,000 Kcal/kg .
- Similar efficiency : Both have an efficiency of 92% , but LPG offers more effective calories per unit of weight.
- Autonomy and independence : LPG can be stored in tanks, while methane requires a connection to the network.
LNG and LPG: Two Solutions for a More Sustainable Future
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and LPG represent two efficient and ecological solutions for the energy transition:
- LNG has the highest Pci in the table (11,935 Kcal/kg) and the best combustion efficiency (92%), making it ideal for industrial applications and trucking fleets.
- LPG offers a versatile solution for heating, both residential and industrial, with widespread distribution and clean combustion.
Conclusion: Which Fuel is Best?
The choice of fuel depends on specific needs, but LPG is confirmed as an advantageous solution for efficiency, reduced emissions and independence from the distribution network. In particular, for those who still use diesel, the conversion to LPG represents a strategic choice to reduce costs and reduce environmental impact.
Do you need advice on converting your system to LPG?
At Ecogenera we offer tailor-made solutions for industrial, agricultural and domestic LPG systems. Contact us for a free quote and discover the advantages of switching to LPG!
