LPG Vs Vs DA-1

Performance of Dissolved Acetylene (DA) Gas vs LPG S.P.
Maniktala
BE (Mech), ADIS, Piping Engg
Ex Chief Manager (HSE), BPCL
maniktalasp@yahoo.co.in
M-9320001076
Acetylene Vs LPG
1. Acetylene
Approximately 20 percent of acetylene is consumed for oxyacetylene gas

welding and cutting due to the high temperature of the flame; combustion of
acetylene with oxygen produces a flame of over 3300 °C, releasing 11.8
kJ/g.
Oxyacetylene is the hottest burning common fuel gas. Acetylene is the third
hottest natural chemical flame after cyanogens at 4525 °C, and dicyano
acetylene's 4990 °C. Acetone is used to keep the gas in the dissolved forum. So
this is known as Dissolved Acetylene (DA).
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Performance of Dissolved Acetylene (DA) Gas vs LPG S.P.Maniktala
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For use and increase the flame temperature different types of flames are
used with variance in the ratio of Acetylene and Oxygen. Eg.
Carburising Flame : Oxygen : Acetylene : 1:3,
Oxidising Flame : Oxygen : Acetylene :3: 1 and
Neutral Flame : Oxygen : Acetylene : 1:1.
Oxidizing flame is normally used for cutting purpose.
Acetylene cylinders are available in 1cfm, 60cfm (1.7m3 /min ),100 cfm
(2.83 m3 /min) and 300 cfm (8.5 m3 /min) capacity
Oxy-acetylene welding was a very popular welding process in previous

decades; however, the development and advantages of arc-based welding
processes have made oxy-fuel welding nearly extinct for many applications.
Acetylene usage for welding has dropped significantly. On the other hand, oxy-
acetylene welding equipment is quite versatile – not only because the torch is
preferred for some sorts of iron or steel welding (as in certain artistic
applications), but also because it lends itself easily to brazing, braze- welding,
metal heating (for annealing or tempering, bending or forming), the loosening of
corroded nuts and bolts, and other applications. Oxyacetylene welding may
also be used in areas where electricity is not readily accessible. As well, oxy-
fuel cutting is still very popular and oxy-acetylene cutting is utilized in nearly
every metal fabrication shop. For use in welding and cutting, the working
pressures must be controlled by a regulator, since above 15 psi acetylene
will decompose explosively.
Properties
Acetylene is a compound of carbon and hydrogen with the chemical formula

C₂H₂. Acetylene is the only common dissolved gas.
It is chemically very unstable and, even at atmospheric pressure, acetylene gas

can explode. In order to safely store acetylene, cylinders are filled with a porous
mass. In this mass there is a solution of acetylene in acetone or DMF (dimethyl
formamide) under pressure, typically 15 bar. Acetylene in solution is stable.
Physical properties.
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At atmospheric temperatures and pressures, acetylene is a colourless gas

which is slightly lighter than air. Pure acetylene is odourless, but acetylene of
ordinary commercial purity has a distinctive, garlic-like smell.
Chemical properties
Acetylene burns in air with an intensely hot, luminous and smoky flame. It can
be liquefied and solidified and both phases are highly unstable. Mixtures of
acetylene with air or oxygen in certain proportions can explode if ignited.
Acetylene under pressure without the presence of air or oxygen can decompose
with explosive force. Dissolved acetylene in a cylinder.
Flammability
Acetylene is a flammable gas and may react explosively even in the absence of
air. The flammability range in air goes from 2.3 vol% to 88 vol%, but even
at concentrations above 88 vol% (up to 100 vol%) acetylene can still
explosively decompose. The ignition temperatures of acetylene, mixtures of
acetylene and air, and mixtures of acetylene with oxygen will vary according to
composition, pressure, water vapour content and initial temperature. As a
typical example, mixtures containing 30% acetylene by volume with air at
atmospheric pressure can auto-ignite at about 305 ºC.
Hot acetylene cylinders
Acetylene cylinders exposed to fire or flames may present an explosion

hazard.
Gas under pressure
An acetylene cylinder containing a dissolved gas under pressure may rupture

(or burst) if heated.
Decomposition
When acetylene is heated to about 300 °C, the acetylene molecule decomposes
into its components: carbon and hydrogen. Energy is liberated in the form of
heat, and the pressure rises sharply. At atmospheric pressure the molecules
are too far apart for this reaction to start, but if the gas is compressed (for
example, in a welding hose where the working pressure is set too high – above
1.5 bar gauge) the molecular decomposition spreads with explosive speed.
Compression of gases results in a temperature rise that could be sufficient
to initiate acetylene decomposition in pipework and
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hoses. The presence of impurities in acetylene piping/hoses will increase the

risk of decomposition occurring under compression conditions.
Polymerisation
Acetylene is capable of reacting with other acetylene molecules to form

larger hydrocarbon molecules, for example benzene. This process is known as
polymerisation and heat is required to initiate the reaction. Once the process is
started, heat is liberated and the reaction becomes self-sustaining above
atmospheric pressure; this can lead to the explosive decomposition of
acetylene. Polymerisation readily commences at 400 °C at atmospheric
pressure and can occur at lower temperatures in the presence of catalysts
such as pipe scale, rust, silica gel, diatomite and charcoal.
Liquid and solid acetylene
Never make liquid or solid acetylene, as both forms are highly unstable.
Acetylides
When acetylene comes into contact with copper, brass with a copper content
>65%, silver, mercury or salts of these metals, acetylides can form. These
acetylides are highly sensitive to shock or friction, resulting in a potential
explosion risk
Asphyxiation
Acetylene has a narcotic effect and in high concentrations may cause

asphyxiation.
MSDS OF DISSOLVED ACETYLENE (DA)
Precautions
 PPE
Wear eye protection when using gases. Wear goggles with suitable filter lenses
when use is cutting/welding. Wear flame resistant/retardant clothing. Wear
working gloves and safety shoes while handling containers. Take
precautionary measures against static discharges. Gas detectors should be
used when quantities of acetylene may be released.
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 Materials
Acetylene can form dangerous compounds with copper, brass, silver and
mercury. Do not use alloys containing more than 65% copper.
 Acetylene system
The acetylene system must be leak-proof from the source e.g. cylinder to the
point of use.
 Ignition sources
Avoid any potential ignition sources, including: matches or cigarette lighters,

mobile phones, two-way radios, pagers, petrol driven engines, sparks from
static electricity (even the static from wearing nylon or man-made fibres
may ignite acetylene), non-flameproof electrical equipment, friction, any
item containing batteries, aluminium ladders or equipment impacting against
rusted metallic materials. Flammable zones classification should be considered
and only equipment suitable for potentially explosive atmospheres
should be used with acetylene.
 Confined spaces
A risk assessment must be carried out before entering or working in a confined

space and a permit to work must be obtained to ensure safe working
conditions. When open flames are used, for example in cutting or welding,
flames consume the oxygen in the air and oxygen deficiency may occur.
Acetylene flames may produce toxic/corrosive fumes. Ensure proper
ventilation is in place and/or use adequate breathing protection.
 Safety devices
Check valves and flashback arrestors must be mounted on both acetylene and
oxygen connections. Check valves are mounted on torches on both fuel gas
and oxygen connections. Check valves effectively prevent the reverse flow of
gas. Flashback arrestors effectively prevent a flashback from propagating back
to the gas supply system or cylinders. Check valve and flashback arrestor can
be combined in one device. To prevent decomposition in the hose line or torch,
the acetylene pressure downstream of the pressure regulator must not exceed
1.5 bar.
General recommendations
• Do not drag cylinders
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• For capped cylinders, ensure the cap is fitted when they are being stored or
transported
• External damage to cylinders and valves (e.g. by welding or striking

electric arcs or impact by sharp objects) must be avoided
• Do not use cylinders as rollers or work supports
• Secure acetylene cylinders during use, storage and transport to prevent

movement
• Perform valve leak test before transport and use
• Acetylene cylinders should not be left in non-dedicated vehicles
• Any stamping or means of identification on the cylinder must not be

altered
• Never heat cylinders, e.g. by direct flame, electrical devices or hot water, to
raise the pressure or the flow rate
• Avoid hot work such as flames or grinding close to an acetylene cylinder. Use
a safety distance of 1 m for a single cylinder and 3–5 m for multiple cylinders
or bundles
• Cylinders must be connected to low pressure equipment only using proper

pressure regulators
• Cylinder valves are unsuitable for pressure and flow regulation• Close
acetylene cylinder valve when not in use, including during work breaks•
Keep cylinder valve outlets and other equipment free from contaminants,
particularly oil and water
• Do not repair or modify cylinders and valves. Any damage should be made
known to the supplier
• Acetylene cylinders should only be used in the vertical position
• Acetylene should never be transferred from one container to

another.Permission to enter a confined space shall be given only after the
issue of an entry permit.Cylinder valves must be protected against damage by
screwing on cylinder caps.Proper clothes and personal protection equipment,
e.g. gloves and safety shoes, must be worn.
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Emergency
Acetylene is an extremely flammable gas. Eliminate ignition sources and do not

extinguish a leaking gas fire unless the leak can be stopped. Exposure to a fire
may cause cylinders to rupture/explode.
Spill or leak
1. If safe to do so, isolate container
2. Evacuate area, eliminate ignition sources and ensure adequate ventilation
3. Stop leak, if possible (e.g. close the cylinder valve wearing proper hand
protection)
4. Prevent entry into confined areas
5. Consider the risk of potentially explosive atmospheres.
First aid
Inhalation: Remove victim to uncontaminated area and fresh air. Keep

victim warm and rested. Call a doctor. Apply artificial respiration if breathing
has stopped.
Fire
1. Suitable extinguishing media: water, dry powder or foam
2. Unsuitable extinguishing media: carbon dioxide
3. Do not extinguish a leaking gas fire unless leak can be stopped (e.g.
closing the cylinder valve wearing proper hand protection)
4. Exposure to fire may cause containers to rupture or explode
5. Use water spray or fog to control fire fumes
6. Move container away (if safe to do so) or cool with water from a protected
position
7. Prevent water used in emergency cases from entering sewers and

drainage systems
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8. If the container is leaking, do not spray water directly onto the

container9. Water the surrounding area to contain fire
10. Advise Fire Service of the location and quantities of acetylene
11. Damaged/impacted cylinders should be handled only by specialists

(return to supplier)
12. Acetylene cylinders exposed to heat in a fire or subjected to thermal

decomposition should not be approached or moved until they have been cooled
and checked to ensure further decomposition is not occurring. This may be
done by using a “wetting test” or using thermal imaging equipment.
Advantages:
• Acetylene produces the hottest flame temperature for oxy fuel cutting and
welding
• The hotter temperature creates a quicker piercing of materials
• Oxy acetylene can be used on sites with no power supply
• It is quite a versatile process and can be used to weld most metals.
Disadvantages:
• Acetylene weld lines are rougher in appearance and need more finishing
• Acetylene is unstable and expensive
• There are more safety issues with oxy Acetylene, because there is a naked
flame.
Safety Considerations in DA
 DA has an explosive range of 3% to 80%, which is dangerous.

 DA is pressurized in a cylinder at pressure of 17 Kg/cm2, which is very
high and dangerous and cause heavy damages if it explodes.
 Above absolute pressure acetylene is unstable and may explode
 DA is shock sensitive which is dangerous.
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 DA is chemically more unstable which makes it more sensitive to

pressure, temperature, static electricity or mechanical shock. DA is
very costly and difficult to transport.
 It is not easily available from the suppliers.
 Comparatively high cost as compared to other gas
 Acetylene gas is shipped in special cylinders designed to keep the gas
dissolved. Acetylene when burned with oxygen gives a temperature of
3200 °C to 3500 °C (5800 °F to 6300 °F), which is the highest
temperature of any of the commonly used gaseous fuels.
 In view of the high pressure cylinders should not be kept in the
Horizontal position. Since it is stored at high pressure & if there is a
damage at the outlet (top), the pressure will be released towards open
end, which in turn will force the other part (metal body) to flew in the
other direction. It will fly like a rocket.
 One oxygen and one DA cylinder is required separately and both the
gases are mixed together in a desired ratio to get a proper flame
which is a cumbersome process.
2. LPG./Propane
Acetylene is one of the industry standard methods of cutting of all
the Industrial Thermal Cutting Processes, but when Propane (LPG) was
introduced to the market the whole thermal cutting process changed and the
battle between Propane (LPG) and Acetylene was born.
Butane, like propane, is a saturated hydrocarbon. Butane and propane do not

react with each other and are regularly mixed together in the plant and filled in
the cylinder. Butane boils at 0.6 deg C. Propane is more
volatile, with a boiling point of - 42 deg C. Vaporization is rapid at temperatures

above the boiling points. The calorific (heat) values of both are almost equal. Both
Propane and Butane are thus mixed together in the
ratio of 55% : 45% to attain the vapor pressure that is required by the end user
and depending on the ambient conditions. If the ambient temperature is very
low propane is preferred to achieve higher vapor pressure at the given
temperature.
Propane is commercially available in 19 Kg, 35 Kg and 47.5 Kg cylinders.
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Like propylene, most propane tips are of a two piece design. Propane often gets
unfair criticism because it really needs changing your torch (from an equal
pressure torch to an injector torch) and not just changing your tip to get the best
performance. Most torches are equal pressure and designed for gases such as
acetylene which are lighter than oxygen. Propane is a great deal heavier and
runs much better through a low-pressure injector torch with a setting from a few
ounces to about two pounds per square inch when cutting.
Physical And Chemical Data
 Boiling Point (°C): >-40

 Melting / Freezing Point(°C): N/A
Physicl State: Liquefied Gas
 Vapour Pressure @ 35 °C Mm/Hg: 1311.56 Mm Hg @-20

 Dg F
 Appearance: Colorless
 Odor: Odorless Gas.
 Vapour Density (Air= 1): 1.5
 Solubility In H2o @ 30 °C : Slight At
 30 Deg. Cg
Specific Gravity (H2o=1): 0.51 To 0.58 At 50 Deg. Cg
Fire And Explosion Hazard Data
Flammability : Yes
Lel : 1.8 %
Uel : 12.8 %
TDG Flammability: 2.1
Flash Point (°C): -76 To -156 Deg. Fh
Auto Ignition Temp(°C): 320 To 405 Deg C
Reactivity Data : Chemical Stability : Stable
Mr.S.P.Maniktala is empanelled with Bureau Veritas India, IR Class Solutions & systems and Lloyds Marine Register and Inspection
Services India LLC for ERDMP Assessment, Safety audits, Technical Audits for Various PNGRB Related jobs , Incident investigations,
Management Training and technical paper writing.
M-9320001076
Incompatibility With Other Material : With Oxidizing Materials
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Reactivity : Yes
Personal Protective Equipments : Respiratory
 Protective Equipment Required.

 Eye & Face : Safety goggles.
 Hand & Arm : Hand gloves (PVC synthetic only)
 Other clothing and equipment : Gum boots, PVC apron.
 Health Hazard Data Routes Of Entry: Skin Absorption: NA.
 Skin Contact: Yes (liquid) Eye Contact: Yes
 Inhalation: Acute: Yes Chronic: NA. Ingestion: No
 Effects Of Exposure / Symptoms: Inhalation can cause headache,

disorientation, dizziness, drowsiness and possibly Unconscious ness at
concentrations that cause oxygen deficiency an asphyxiation. Rapidly
expanding gas or vaporized liquid may cause frostbite to skin and eyes
 EMERGENCY TREATMENT : Flush eyes and skin with plenty of water

and get medical aid.
 TLV (ACGIH) : 100 PPM, 1800 mg/m3 STEL : PPM

mg/m3
 EXPOSURE LIMITS : LD 50: PPM mg/m3
 PERMISSIBL ODOUR THRESHOLD LD50 : 5000ppm to 20000 ppm
 NFPA HAZARD RATING

HELATH: NA FLAMABILITY : Yes STABILITY: Stable : SPECIAL: NA
 EMERGENCY AND FIRST- AID MESURES :FIRE

 FIRE EXTINGUISHING MEDIA : Dry chemical powder,carbon dioxide
and water spray.
 EXPOSURE FIRST AID MEASURES :
Skin: If freeze burn occurs, gently bathe affected area in warm water
(38 – 43) deg.C. Do not rub. Get medical attention.
Eye: Immediately flush with large amounts of luke warm water for
15 minutes, lifting upper and lower lids at
intervals. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. Give oxygen, artificial respiration, or
CPR if needed. Seek medical attention.
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Ingestion: Usually no effect by this route.
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 SPILLS STEPS TO BE TAKEN :

 Do not enter in the gas area without protective wears. Get the
area evacuated.
 Stop flow of gas if without risk.
 Spray water to keep the containment.
Advantages:
• Propane has greater total heat combustion
• Oxy propane is easy to obtain and cheaper
• Propane is more stable.
Disadvantages:
• Propane produces a lower flame temperature
• There is increased pre-heat time
• Flames are less focused, therefore if incorrectly used, piercing is slower
• Propane can’t be used for gas welding as it doesn’t have a reducing

zone
Some Facts And Common Misconceptions Regarding Propane

(LPG) And Acetylene:
 Here are
- Maximum neutral flame temperature of acetylene in oxygen is about

31600 C.
- Maximum neutral flame temperature of propane in oxygen is about

28220 C.
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This difference actually should not be deciding factor. What really matters is
the Thermal Output. Propane has high flame temperature leading to
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faster cutting, lower slack formation and lower consumption of fuel.

Propane, however, has a very high number of BTUs per cubic feet (or
Kilocalories) in its outer cone, and because of this with the right torch
(injector style) makes a faster and cleaner cut than acetylene, and is
much more useful for heating and bending than acetylene.
• Does not burn as hot as acetylene in its inner cone, and so cannot be
used for welding.
 Comparative Safety considerations
 LPG has less explosive range (2.5% to 9.5%) than DA (3% to 80%)
 LPG Cylinder is less pressurised (5 to 7 KG/cm2) than DA (17 Kg/cm2)
 LPG is safe upto cylinder pressure while DA is shock sensitive
 DA is more chemicaly unstable which makes it more sensitive to
pressure, temperature, static electricity or mechanical shock
 LPG has low cost compare to DA
 Design of cylinder is stable and more safe in vertical position and tying of
clinders is not required. In case of Dissolved Acetylene, it is cylinders are
not in stable in vertical position and cause safety, fire
and explosion hazard, if fall occurs by mistake and valve is hit.
Cylinders need to be kept vertically tied up and supported.
 Propane does not burn as hot as acetylene in its inner cone, and so it
is rarely used for welding. Propane, however, has a very high number of
BTUs per cubic foot in its outer cone, and so with the right torch can make a
faster and cleaner cut than acetylene, and is much more useful for heating
and bending than acetylene.
 Propane is cheaper than acetylene and easier to transport
Commercial & Logistic Considerations
 Propane is 3 times cheaper than Dissolved Acetylene.

 Propane is commercially available throughout India though the
large net work BPCL, IOCL and HPCL as compared Oxygen
and Acetylene which is being distributed by a few distributors of Linde
India, Indian Oxygen, INOX, Paraxair etc.
Mr.S.P.Maniktala is empanelled with Bureau Veritas India, IR Class Solutions & systems and Lloyds Marine Register and
Inspection Services India LLC for ERDMP Assessment, Safety audits, Technical Audits for Various PNGRB Related jobs , Incident
investigations, Management Training and technical paper writing.
M-9320001076
Conclusion
DA is Highly unstable and is dangerous to use. Its availability in
the market is a constraint as it is being distributed by different
Manufacturers thorough their own distributor network. Though its flame
produces moreout put and very high temperature, thermal output of LPG
and DA is almost same.
Further these cylinders will have to be kept chained to avoid a fall as if it

falls by mistake, and valve is hit it explodes like rocket and causes
huge damages. Also it can cause explosion even with a small shock.
LPG, on other hand is stable and does not burn needs is compressed in a
liquid state at much lower pressure than DA and is safe. Furher this is
also available in 19, 35 Kg and
47.5 Kg cylinders to suit themarket needs.
Furher LPG is sold in Kg as compared to DA which is sold in Cfm. So kg

are easily measurable and so value for money is received.
Apart from this LPG is 40% Cheaper.
Mr.S.P.Maniktala is empanelled with Bureau Veritas India, IR Class Solutions & systems and Lloyds Marine Register and
Inspection Services India LLC for ERDMP Assessment, Safety audits, Technical Audits for Various PNGRB Related jobs , Incident
investigations, Management Training and technical paper writing.
M-9320001076
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Performance of Dissolved Acetylene (DA) Gas vs LPG S.P.

Approximately 20 percent of acetylene is consumed for oxyacetylene gas

Carburising Flame : Oxygen : Acetylene : 1:3,

Oxidising Flame : Oxygen : Acetylene :3: 1 and

Neutral Flame : Oxygen : Acetylene : 1:1.

Oxidizing flame is normally used for cutting purpose.

Oxy-acetylene welding was a very popular welding process in previous

Acetylene is a compound of carbon and hydrogen with the chemical formula

It is chemically very unstable and, even at atmospheric pressure, acetylene gas

At atmospheric temperatures and pressures, acetylene is a colourless gas

Hot acetylene cylinders

Acetylene cylinders exposed to fire or flames may present an explosion

Gas under pressure

An acetylene cylinder containing a dissolved gas under pressure may rupture

hoses. The presence of impurities in acetylene piping/hoses will increase the

Acetylene is capable of reacting with other acetylene molecules to form

Liquid and solid acetylene

Acetylene has a narcotic effect and in high concentrations may cause

MSDS OF DISSOLVED ACETYLENE (DA)

Avoid any potential ignition sources, including: matches or cigarette lighters,

A risk assessment must be carried out before entering or working in a confined

• Do not drag cylinders

• External damage to cylinders and valves (e.g. by welding or striking

• Do not use cylinders as rollers or work supports

• Secure acetylene cylinders during use, storage and transport to prevent

• Perform valve leak test before transport and use

• Acetylene cylinders should not be left in non-dedicated vehicles

• Any stamping or means of identification on the cylinder must not be

• Cylinders must be connected to low pressure equipment only using proper

• Acetylene cylinders should only be used in the vertical position

• Acetylene should never be transferred from one container to

Acetylene is an extremely flammable gas. Eliminate ignition sources and do not

1. If safe to do so, isolate container

2. Evacuate area, eliminate ignition sources and ensure adequate ventilation

4. Prevent entry into confined areas

5. Consider the risk of potentially explosive atmospheres.

Inhalation: Remove victim to uncontaminated area and fresh air. Keep

1. Suitable extinguishing media: water, dry powder or foam

2. Unsuitable extinguishing media: carbon dioxide

4. Exposure to fire may cause containers to rupture or explode

5. Use water spray or fog to control fire fumes

7. Prevent water used in emergency cases from entering sewers and

8. If the container is leaking, do not spray water directly onto the

10. Advise Fire Service of the location and quantities of acetylene

11. Damaged/impacted cylinders should be handled only by specialists

12. Acetylene cylinders exposed to heat in a fire or subjected to thermal

• The hotter temperature creates a quicker piercing of materials

• Oxy acetylene can be used on sites with no power supply

• It is quite a versatile process and can be used to weld most metals.

• Acetylene is unstable and expensive

 DA has an explosive range of 3% to 80%, which is dangerous.

 DA is chemically more unstable which makes it more sensitive to

Butane, like propane, is a saturated hydrocarbon. Butane and propane do not

volatile, with a boiling point of - 42 deg C. Vaporization is rapid at temperatures

Propane is commercially available in 19 Kg, 35 Kg and 47.5 Kg cylinders.

Physical And Chemical Data

 Boiling Point (°C): >-40

Physicl State: Liquefied Gas

 Vapour Pressure @ 35 °C Mm/Hg: 1311.56 Mm Hg @-20

Specific Gravity (H2o=1): 0.51 To 0.58 At 50 Deg. Cg

Fire And Explosion Hazard Data

TDG Flammability: 2.1

Flash Point (°C): -76 To -156 Deg. Fh