Ethane | Metro Welding Supply Corp.

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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 313-834-1660 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^313-834-1660 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.

  • How was Ethane discovered and what is the origin of its name?

    Ethane, a significant hydrocarbon, was first identified by the renowned scientist Michael Faraday in the year 1834. His discovery came about during an experiment involving the electrolysis of potassium acetate, a process in which electrical current breaks down the chemical compound. This groundbreaking experiment led to the identification of ethane, expanding the understanding of chemical compounds at the time.


    The name "ethane" finds its roots in the word "ether," which is derived from both Latin and Greek origins. In Latin, it comes from "aether," and in Greek, from "aithēr," both of which translate to "upper air." This nomenclature reflects the almost ethereal nature of the gas, which is colorless and odorless, linking it symbolically to the concept of the clear upper layers of the atmosphere.

  • What materials are compatible with Ethane, including metals, plastics, elastomers, and lubricants?

    When working with Ethane, it's important to know which materials are compatible to ensure safety and efficiency. Here’s a comprehensive list detailing how various materials respond to exposure with Ethane:


    Metals:

    • Aluminium - Performs well without any issues.
    • Brass - Shows good compatibility.
    • Ferritic Steel - Can be safely used with Ethane.
    • Stainless Steel - Works well and is safe to use.

    Plastics:

    • Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) - Satisfactory performance.
    • Polychlorotrifluoroethylene - Shows good resistance and compatibility.
    • Polyvinylidene Fluoride - Compatible with no adverse effects.
    • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) - Suitable for use with Ethane.
    • Polyamide - Performs well without degradation.
    • Polypropylene - Remains stable and effective.

    Elastomers:

    • Nitrile Rubber - Demonstrates satisfactory compatibility.
    • Perfluoroelastomers - Maintains integrity and effectiveness.
    • Fluoroelastomers - Effective and shows no adverse effects.
    • Polyurethane - Suitable for use with satisfying results.

    Lubricants:

    • Hydrocarbon-based Lubricants - Functions effectively with Ethane.
    • Fluorocarbon-based Lubricants - Ensures smooth operation and compatibility.

    This breakdown provides a clear view of which materials are best suited for use with Ethane, covering various categories such as metals, plastics, elastomers, and lubricants. Each listed material has been evaluated to ensure that they perform efficiently when exposed to Ethane, making it easier to make informed choices for industrial and manufacturing processes. Remember, it's essential to avoid using materials that exhibit swelling or degradation for optimal results and safety.

  • What are the physical properties of Ethane, including its molar mass, critical point, triple point, and melting and boiling points?

    Ethane, a chemical compound primarily used as a petrochemical feedstock, is characterized by specific physical properties that differentiate it from other hydrocarbons.


    Key Physical Properties of Ethane


    Molar Mass:Ethane has a molar mass of 30.069 grams per mole, which influences both its reactivity and physical behavior under different conditions.


    Critical Point:The critical point of a substance is where it cannot be distinguished as either a liquid or a gas. For ethane, this occurs at a temperature of 32.17 degrees Celsius and a pressure of 48.72 bar. This is relevant in applications involving ethane under extreme conditions.


    Triple Point:Ethane's triple point — the temperature and pressure at which it can exist simultaneously as a solid, liquid, and gas — is observed at -182.78 degrees Celsius with a pressure of 1.13E-5 bar. This feature is crucial for scientific experiments involving phase changes.


    Melting and Boiling Points:Ethane transitions from a solid to a liquid at a melting point of -183.3 degrees Celsius and boils into a gas at -88.58 degrees Celsius. These thermal properties are essential for its handling and storage in industrial applications.


    Understanding these properties ensures safe and effective usage of ethane in various chemical and industrial processes. Whether storing it as a compressed gas or using it in refrigeration systems, knowledge of its physical characteristics is indispensable.

Disclaimer:


Please consult our Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and follow all recommended safety protocols and guidelines when handling Ethane. Misuse or mishandling of this chemical can result in serious health risks and environmental hazards.

Note:


This product page is intended to provide an informative overview of Ethane. For specific inquiries, technical details, or orders, please contact our sales team.

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