Are there any advantages or disadvantages to running a rotary on propane
and or
natural gas (methane)? Both have a higher BTU rating than aviation
gasoline.

We will be operating in remote areas with propane as our fuel source -
liquid
methane is also a possibility.

The propane is easier to store than methane i.e. low pressure non
cryogenic liquid.

Any conversion issues unique to the rotary? I have read conflicting
information that
direct conversion of vehicle engines from gasoline to propane result in a
slightly
lower to slightly higher HP output? If you throughput the same amount of
fuel by
weight it should be about 6% greater HP or 6% lower fuel consumption for
the
same HP.

Fuel        BTU/lb         BTU/gallon

Gasoline -     18676         116090
#2 diesel -      18394         129050
Ethanol -     11585         76330
Propane -     19900         84500
Methane -      20263         19800

I understand that one can convert using a dual fuel approach i.e. set to
run on
propane with a switch to go to gasoline (not both at the same time). Two
fuel tanks
though.

Cheers,

Brian Feeney
alaia design


That should have read about 21,500 BTU's per lb for propane instead of
19,900 - so a 15% improvement in HP or 15% lower fuel consumption (ideal
numbers).

Cheers,

Brian Feeney
alaia design