Safe camping: The 5 most important safety devices for LPG systems

Whether in a motor caravan, caravan, or van – camping and LPG go hand in hand. LPG is an efficient and safe energy source when the right precautions are taken. In this article, we present the five most important safety devices and safety aspects for LPG systems and explain in detail how they work and why they are so important.

1.The crash sensor: your guardian angel in accidents

The crash sensor is an indispensable safety device, especially if you want to use gas appliances while driving. Only with the crash sensor on board are campers allowed to operate appliances like refrigerators or gas heaters while driving. The crash sensor is an integral part of gas pressure control systems, such as the Caramatic DriveTwo or the Caramatic SafeDrive PLUS.

Functionality:

The GOK crash sensor is based on a pendulum solution. During normal operation, the pendulum keeps a spring-loaded sealing unit open, allowing gas to flow. In the event of an accident or strong impact (from about 15-20 km/h impact speed), the pendulum changes position. This causes the sealing unit to move down and immediately block the gas flow.

Consequences of neglect:

Without a crash sensor, gas could escape uncontrollably in an accident, leading to an increased risk of fire or even an explosion.

2.The hose rupture safety device: protection against hose ruptures

This device protects you from the consequences of a hose rupture. It is mandatory in camping vehicles if you want to operate gas appliances while driving and use gas pressure control systems with a crash sensor, such as the Caramatic DriveOne or DriveTwo. The Caramatic SafeDrive does not require a hose rupture safety device.

Important: The hose rupture safety device is also very useful for monitoring stationary LPG systems at the campsite. If you remove the gas cylinder from the vehicle, connect a pressure regulator with 50 mbar and a hose, and operate a gas grill, you should consider a retrofittable hose rupture safety device. For hose lengths over 1.5 meters, it is mandatory.

Functionality:

The hose rupture safety device reacts to a sudden increase in flow rate caused by a hose rupture or tear. It automatically interrupts the gas flow.

Consequences of neglect:

Without this safety device, a hose rupture could lead to uncontrolled gas leakage, resulting in a dangerous gas concentration in the environment.

3.The Gas Pressure Regulator: Ensuring the Correct Pressure in Your System

The gas pressure regulator reduces the high pressure from the gas cylinder to the typical operating pressure of 30 mbar or 50 mbar in camping vehicles. There isn’t just one pressure regulator (also called a pressure regulator), but different variants. However, almost all pressure regulators for camping vehicles have a built-in safety device, such as a safety relief valve PRV or an overpressure safety device S2SR.

Functionality:

The gas pressure regulator contains precisely matched mechanical components. Among other things, the valve lever, spring, and membrane ensure a constant pressure at the gas appliance. The high cylinder pressure of up to 16 bar is reduced by the pressure regulator to an optimal value of 30 or 50 mbar for gas appliances.

Consequences of neglect:

Without a regulator, you risk excessively high gas pressure, damaging appliances. This leads to malfunctions and ultimately to resulting dangers. Too low pressure could cause appliances to malfunction or even shut down, which is not ideal for a heater in winter.

Using the wrong pressure regulator or operating gas appliances without the necessary safety devices is negligent and partly illegal. This risks a lot, including the insurance coverage for the vehicle in case of an incident.

4.Regular leak tests: prevention is better than cure

Regularly checking your entire gas system for leaks is essential for safety. It’s quick, costs nothing, and is easily done.

Functionality:

During a leak test, the entire gas system is pressurized, and then it is observed whether the pressure remains constant over a certain period. Additionally, all connections and fittings are checked for leaks using a leak detector spray or a water-soap mixture.

Consequences of neglect:

Undetected leaks could lead to a dangerous gas concentration in your vehicle, posing a health risk and, in the worst case, causing a fire or explosion.

5.The belt holder in the gas compartment: secure stand for your gas cylinders

The belt holder in the gas compartment ensures that your gas cylinders remain securely in place while driving.

Functionality:

The belt holder consists of robust straps that are placed around the gas cylinder and tightened. They prevent the cylinder from moving or tipping over while driving.

Consequences of neglect:

An unsecured gas cylinder could tip over during driving, damaging the connection or hose and causing a gas leak. Those who, thanks to the crash sensor, also withdraw LPG from the gas cylinder while driving should be particularly careful. If the gas cylinder tips over, liquid gas phase could enter the pipe system. The consequences can lead to damage to the pipe system and gas appliances.

Conclusion: These five safety devices form the backbone of a safe LPG system in your camping vehicle. If correctly installed and regularly maintained, they make the use of LPG while camping very safe. LPG is an efficient and reliable energy source that poses no danger when handled properly. Ensure that the mentioned components are present and functional in your system, follow the safety tips, and have regular maintenance and inspections – especially the G 607 inspection every two years – carried out by certified professionals. This way, you can enjoy your camping holiday worry-free – with the assurance of being well protected.