Generator LP 100lb tank

[Huntinguy]

I am kinda off to my next project/conundrum.

I have a " whole house" (7,5kw) generator for my pump house. It calls for a maximum draw of 130,000 BTUs. I need to run it off 100 lb tanks. They have the standard valves like the 20 lb tanks. I have seen some regulators that claim to provide the BTUs but they are all 3/8 hose fittings for 3/8 hose. That size hose only flows 80,000 BTUs.

I really do not want to put a 250 gallon tank there for lot's of reasons.

Has anyone done something like this and made it work? How did you do it and what parts did you use?

 

[jaxs]

I've done similar many times. Other than pol fitting in tank valve, everything else is common plumbing sizes/threads. Run 3/8 lines from 2 (or as many as you like) tanks into Y with 1/2" outlet. A 100 pound tank will only run the genny for 15-20 hours so you often need more capacity anyhow. There's a second but more hassle and expensive way for sub-freezing weather. Special tank with liquid withdrawal or invert conventional tank with proper regulator. Some gennies come from factory equipped with vaporizer allowing liquid use without special regulator.
Are you using new or used tanks? FYI used forklift tanks sell much cheaper than 100 pounders and can supply both liquid and vapor.

 

[SPYDERLK]

You will have to do something clever to keep the tanks warm as you draw from them. Maybe duct waste engine heat over/around them. ... Unless your usage is typically brief and in warm weather.