Stationary engines are excellent candidates for propane conversions. Typical stationary engine applications are:

  • Generators - Standby and prime power
  • Compressors
  • Water Pumps

Generally, the emission requirements for alternative fuel systems are less stringent for stationary engine applications than for automotive applications. You need to verify the emission requirements in your jurisdiction to be sure. Emission requirements depend upon the size and/or power rating of the engine.

The conversion options that are available to automotive applications are only available to similarly sized stationary engines. Because stationary engines generally run at a constant speed and are generally larger than automotive engines, fuels systems for these engines generally do not have an idle circuit built into it. Because of the much simpler mode of operation of stationary engines, fumigation (mixer-based) fuel systems are used.

Propane (or LPG) is generally only used as a stationary engine fuel when lower-priced natural gas or digester gas is not available. Natural & digester gas piped to these engines usually makes the most sense and there are significant savings to be had with these fuels over liquid fuels.