Ethane | Metro Welding Supply Corp.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCT

Ethane gas is a crucial component in various industries and applications due to its versatile nature and wide range of uses. This colorless, odorless, and highly flammable hydrocarbon is an essential raw material in many industrial processes. Its versatility, high purity, and efficiency make it an invaluable component in processes ranging from petrochemical production to energy generation and refrigeration.

10 KEY CHARACTERISTICS

1. Chemical Composition: Ethane gas is a hydrocarbon with a chemical formula of C2H6. This means it consists of two carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms.
2. State at Room Temperature: Ethane is a colorless, odorless, and highly flammable gas at room temperature and pressure.
3. Boiling Point: Ethane has a relatively low boiling point of approximately -88.6 degrees Celsius 313-450-9300 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes it suitable for various low-temperature applications.
4. Flammability: Ethane is highly flammable, and it can ignite easily in the presence of a spark or open flame. Therefore, it should be handled with care and stored properly.
5. Density: Ethane is lighter than air, with a density of approximately 1.36 kg/m^313-450-9300 lb/ft^3) under standard conditions. This means it will tend to rise in the atmosphere if released.
6. Energy Content: Ethane is a potent fuel with a high energy content. When burned, it releases a significant amount of heat energy, making it valuable for heating applications.
7. Chemical Reactivity: Ethane is relatively unreactive compared to other hydrocarbons. It does not readily undergo chemical reactions at ambient conditions, making it a stable compound.
8. Solubility: Ethane is sparingly soluble in water, which means it does not readily dissolve in aqueous solutions. It is generally considered to be insoluble in water.
9. Industrial Use: Ethane serves as a crucial feedstock in the production of ethylene, which is a key building block for various plastics, synthetic rubbers, and other petrochemical products.
10. Refrigerant Properties: Due to its low boiling point, ethane is used as a refrigerant in certain applications. It can be employed in refrigeration systems to achieve low temperatures.

10 COMMON USES

1. Petrochemical Industry: Ethane is a primary feedstock for the production of ethylene, propylene, and butadiene, which are essential building blocks for plastics, synthetic rubber, and other petrochemical products.
2. Energy Generation: Ethane is used as a fuel in power plants for electricity generation. Its high energy content makes it an efficient choice for combustion processes.
3. Residential Heating: In some regions, ethane is used as a source of heat in residential and commercial spaces. It can be used in boilers, furnaces, and other heating systems.
4. Industrial Heating: Ethane is utilized in various industrial processes that require high temperatures, such as in metal smelting and glass manufacturing.
5. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning: Due to its low boiling point, ethane is used as a refrigerant in certain applications. It is employed to achieve and maintain low temperatures in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
6. Fuel Additive: Ethane can be added to natural gas supplies to enhance its energy content. This makes it a valuable component for ensuring a consistent and efficient energy source.
7. Chemical Synthesis: Ethane serves as a starting material in various chemical reactions, enabling the synthesis of a wide range of chemical compounds.
8. Plastics Manufacturing: Ethane-derived ethylene is a fundamental component in the production of a wide range of plastics, including polyethylene, which is used in packaging, containers, and various other applications.
9. Synthetic Rubber Production: Ethylene, produced from ethane, is a key ingredient in the manufacture of synthetic rubbers used in tires, belts, hoses, and various industrial applications.
10. Aerosol Propellants: Ethane can be used as a propellant in aerosol spray products, such as deodorants, hair sprays, and insect repellents.