Can heat cause a propane tank to explode?

Question

Can a flame from a propane heater cause it to explode if it is aimed at the tank?

Answer 1

Depends on the size of the flame. But, not really. Propane tanks won't explode anyway. But, I did work with a lady where her relatives house burned down because they had a big propane tank that was stored improperly on its side (they thought it was empty). The lady dropped a can and it hit the valve and caused the gas to leak out, it got ignited by their water heater and burned down the house.

I'd keep any flames away from the propane tank anyway.

Answer 2

A propane tank is filled with liquid propane. If the tank becomes hot enough the liquid will change state to a gas. This change of state will increase the pressure in the tank dramatically. This can cause the tank to explode. That said, the temperature required is well above any outside ambient temperature. This happens for all liquids stored under pressure. For example the new R410 refrigerant has a change of state at about 140 degrees. Bottles have exploded that were left in hot vans that reached over 140 degrees. Pretty rare occurance, but it has happened.

Answer 3

All propane tanks have a blow out plug, when the tank gets to hot the plug will blow out. If a heater is burning close by it will ignite the escaping gas and the tank will blow. Propane tanks are painted silver or white to reflect heat. Propane and Butane is rated at around 1450 B.T Us were as natural gas is 1130 B.T Us per cubic foot. Learn safety of handling Propane and Butane from the Railroad Commission

Answer 4

prolly...cuz thats why they tell you to keep batteries and hairspary cans out of the fire or intense heat. the pressure from the heat inside the tank would build up therefore causing it to explode.

Answer 5

yes