What are the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) and Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) of propane?

The Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) and Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) refer to the concentration range of a flammable gas in air that can ignite and produce an explosion when exposed to an ignition source. For propane, the LEL is approximately 2.1%, meaning that at this concentration, the mixture is just rich enough in propane to ignite. The UEL is about 9.5%, indicating that beyond this concentration, there is too much propane relative to air for combustion to occur.

Understanding these limits is crucial for safety and risk assessment in environments where propane is present. Being aware of the LEL and UEL helps firefighters and safety officers gauge the risks of explosion or fire, enabling them to make informed decisions when working in potentially hazardous areas. This knowledge is essential for effective incident command and hazard mitigation.