L.P. AND NATURAL GAS ORIFICES
The actual size and configuration of each orifice depends on several factors. The most important factor, however, is the type of gas that will be used by the gas range system. The two most frequently used types are: liquefied petroleum (L.P.) gas, and natural gas.
L.P. gas is generally heavier than natural gas and has a higher heat output.
For example, when one cubic foot of L.P. gas is burned, it gives off approximately 2,500 B.T.U. of heat, while one cubic foot of natural gas will yield only 1,000 B.T.U. Since the heat density of L.P. gas is higher than natural gas, it takes less cubic feet of L.P. gas to produce the same amount of heat. An L.P. orifice will always be smaller than a natural gas orifice with an equivalent B.T.U. rating (see the following “Orifice Specifications Chart” ). It is also important to remember that much more air is needed with the L.P. gas system (24 cu. ft.) than with the natural gas system (10 cu. ft.). The identification color location on the valve is shown in Figure
Orifice Specifications Chart
SUGGESTED | IDENT. |
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DRILL SIZE | COLOR | STAMPING | BTU RATING |
1.45 MM | BRASS | NAT | 9,500 |
#65 | BRASS | L.P. | 8,500 |
#55 | BLACK | NAT | 7,500 |
#68 | BLACK | L.P. | 6,500 |
1.2 MM | NICKEL | NAT | 6,500 |
.7 MM | NICKEL | L.P. | 5,500 |
#54 | BRASS | NAT | 9,000 |
#66 | BRASS | L.P. | 8,000 |
1.85 MM | – | NAT | 12,500 |
#60 | – | L.P. | 11,500 |
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Identification
Color
Figure
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