Dangerous Propane Systems

[boatpoker]

I just posted Safe Boat Propane Installations on my website with lots of photos of the most incredible stupidity. Thought you guys might find it entertaining.

[GordMay]

Thanks Captain.
Very illuminating.

[skipmac]

Thanks for the post and link. I looked at the web site and have a question.

It says to use one, continuous hose from the propane locker to the appliance. So if you have two propane appliances, even side by side, you would need to run two separate hoses from the locker all the way to each unit? Are there no safe and approved fittings or methods to split a propane supply line?

[boatpoker]

Originally Posted by skipmac

Thanks for the post and link. I looked at the web site and have a question.

It says to use one, continuous hose from the propane locker to the appliance. So if you have two propane appliances, even side by side, you would need to run two separate hoses from the locker all the way to each unit?

As per ABYC, all junctions except for the connections at the appliance must occur inside the locker so yes, one line for each appliance. Remember that ABYC standards are not a legal requirement but I think they should be in this case

[sailorboy1]

There are mechanical compression type fittings for gas services for use with a proper fitted hose. I'm not going to go into reading all the regs, but would think this would be acceptable (why would a boat be different from any other properly assembled industrial gas fitting/system). Just that using a tee with a hose clamp isn't acceptable like in some of the photos.

[unbusted67]

I just recently did a stove and propane system install on my boat as per ABYC specs. I was amazed at how simple and logical it made everything to follow these guidelines. I will do everything ABYC from now on. Most of it makes good sense.

[boatpoker]

Originally Posted by Don Lucas

There are mechanical compression type fittings for gas services for use with a proper fitted hose. I'm not going to go into reading all the regs, but would think this would be acceptable (why would a boat be different from any other properly assembled industrial gas fitting/system). Just that using a tee with a hose clamp isn't acceptable like in some of the photos.

I believe boats are somewhat different than many other applications due to vibration and many sources of non-ignition protected equipment in closed spaces.

[SV Demeter]

In your list you state:

The locker - Must be above the waterline, top loading with a tight fitting gasketed lid that opens to the atmosphere, be vapor tight to the interior of the vessel (all apertures to be sealed) and must be used for no other purpose. ie. don't keep your anchor in there.

Is this per ABYC? Specifically the "Top Loading" component?

[boatpoker]

Originally Posted by SV Demeter

In your list you state:

Is this per ABYC? Specifically the "Top Loading" component?

Yes, each of these issues including "top loading" are ABYC requirements.

[hpeer]

Makes me like my kero solution even more!

[GordMay]

Excerpted from:
ABYC A-1 MARINE LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG) SYSTEMS
... A-1.8.1 Lockers used to contain LPG cylinders, cylinder valves, regulating equipment and safety devices shall be designed to minimize the likelihood of use as a gear storage locker and shall be,
A-1.8.1.1 vapor tight to the hull interior, and
A-1.8.1.2 located above the waterline, and
A-1.8.1.3 constructed of, or lined with, corrosion resistant materials, and
A-1.8.1.4 shall open only from the top with
A-1.8.1.5 a gasketed cover that shall latch tightly, and
A-1.8.1.6 shall be capable of being quickly and conveniently opened without tools. ...

[Alecadi]

There are some mandatory labels to be put on the storage locker and at the stove, but I was never able to found any of them so far neither at Westmarine or anywhere else as a matter of fact.

[SabreKai]

Having watched a cabin cruiser blow up at Sault Ste Marie many years ago due to stupidity with a propane stove, I appreciate your web site. I've just book marked it. I am in the process of rebuilding my boat, and the galley is part of that. My only problem is having a locker built into the boat. Not really much space for it. I suspect I will be going with an external locker on the stern or by the mast, and run the hose through the deck or overhead.

[four winds]

My setup is like listed here in all its particulars. The good ways, not the bad.

I use it daily and feel safe.

My locker is located behind the helm at the transom. Top opening, gasket, gauge, regulator, vents down and out the transom, and has a "steak saver" adapter and a 2lb disposable bottle secured inside as well.

Good setup, but a bit underfoot while steering. Still better to me than having it on the rail or some other more visible spot.

Someone said it looked like a porta pottie behind the wheel. I laughed but it does.

[thinwater]

Originally Posted by SV Demeter

In your list you state:


Is this per ABYC? Specifically the "Top Loading" component?

Specifically, regulators are known to fail by beginning to leak.

It's that kind of thing that is so simple if the builder does it at the factory, and difficult later.