Classifications Gases
Reference data and engineering information about classifications gases for gases and compressed air applications.
Overview
Engineering reference data for Classifications Gases in gases and compressed air.
Key Formulas
Ideal Gas Law
Pressure × Volume = moles × gas constant × temperature.
Boyle's Law
At constant temperature.
Charles's Law
At constant pressure.
Variables
| Symbol | Description | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure | Pa | |
| Volume | m³ | |
| Temperature | K | |
| Gas constant | 8.314 J/(mol·K) |
Gas Classification Details
Oxidizers
Oxidizers are not flammable on their own but will support and accelerate combustion by acting as an oxidizing agent. They must be stored separately from fuels, oils, and greases.
Common Oxidizers:
- Air
- Chlorine
- Fluorine
- Nitric Oxide
- Nitrogen Dioxide
- Oxygen
Inert Gases
Inert gases do not participate in combustion or react with other materials. They are used as extinguishing agents, particularly in spaces containing sensitive electronics where water damage must be avoided. When introduced to a space, they displace oxygen, thereby suppressing fire.
Common Inert Gases:
- Argon
- Carbon Dioxide
- Helium
- Neon
- Nitrogen
- Xenon
Flammable Gases
Flammable gases can ignite and explode when mixed with air or oxygen within specific concentration limits. The mixture must be within its flammable range (not too lean or too rich) to ignite.
Common Flammable Gases:
- Acetylene
- Ammonia
- Arsine
- Butane
- Carbon Monoxide
- Cyclopropane
- Ethane
- Ethylene
- Ethyl Chloride
- Hydrogen
- Isobutane
- Methane
- Methyl Chloride
- Propane
- Propylene
- Silane
Ignition Concentration Limits
Data for the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) and Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) for common flammable gases is not provided in the source text. This section can be expanded with a DataTable once specific values are available.