Propane Vs. Butane Torch: How Hot Do They Get?

Torches or blowtorches are extremely helpful tools sometimes. Projects involving any type of metal or even cooking can be done with it. Torches come in many shapes and sizes and could be fueled by butane or propane. Want to know the heat they produce? Well, we've done extensive research on this topic and have put together the following information to aid you.

When used for heating, butane and propane torches create different temperatures. The maximum temperature that butane can withstand is approximately 2,600°F. However, propane torches can reach considerably higher temperatures of about 3,600°F.

In this article, we'll have an intriguing discussion about butane versus propane torches for you. We'll share with you what burns cleaner, is cheaper, and lasts longer. Also, we'll elaborate on how to use them properly. So keep on reading for more interesting information ahead.

Collaged photo of propane and butane torch, Propane Vs Butane Torch: How Hot Do They Get?

Propane Vs. Butane Torch: How Hot Do They Get?

All propane torches operate at temperatures exceeding 3,600°F. However, the highest temperature is just 3,623°F. Because of this, propane is a preferable option when soldering and welding metals together. 

However, most butane torches burn between 2400°F and 2,610°F, which is generally regarded as a slow burn temperature range. A butane torch is a fantastic tool for home repairs and kitchen use since it can get hot enough to melt light metals like aluminum and copper.

Man holding a butane torch

But if sufficient safety measures aren't performed, they both burn at a temperature that makes catastrophic burns possible.

These two fuels differ from one another in a variety of other ways as well. For instance, propane is better suited for outdoor applications where the user does not want to worry about running out of fuel before finishing because it has a significantly higher vapor pressure than butane and will evaporate more quickly.

In addition, depending on where it is used, butane has a harsher smell and will emit more smoke when ignited (indoors or outdoors).

What Burns Cleaner Butane Or Propane?

Butane is a fuel that emits less carbon monoxide and is cleaner. The flame of a butane torch is smaller than one powered by propane. Despite being cleaner, the gas in a butane torch can still be harmful to your health. If at all possible, carry out a sizable project outside.

Although propane burns hotter than butane, the fuel is dirtier. To be sure you're making the best decision for you, think about the purpose for which you'll be employing these torches.

Which Is Cheaper Butane Or Propane?

Another crucial consideration when choosing between butane and propane is price. Even though retail market prices vary between brands and locations, we may fairly accurately estimate the price difference by examining the data below.

Year 

(December 20 Throughout)

Butane Cost

($)

Propane Cost 

($)

2002

6.21 5.73

2003

7.37

6.86

2004

9.02

8.52

2005

12.56

11.53

2006

10.88

10.52

2007

17.77

16.70

2008

6.32

6.60

2009

14.51

13.04

2010

16.38

14.15

2011

19.58

15.17

2012

16.98

8.61

2013

13.29

13.93

2014

7.17

6.00

2015

5.45

4.17

2016

9.59

6.92

2017

9.96

10.48

2018

7.50

7.36

2019

6.67

5.44

2020

8.51

7.07

2021 12.81

11.25

According to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) data, butane has been more expensive than propane from December 2002 to December 2021. Only in the years 2008, 2013, and 2017 that the propane exceeds a little bit with cost differences of $0.28, $0.64, and $0.52, respectively. 

However, the price of fuel on the open market does not provide all the information. The canister used to hold the gas accounts for half of the cost. Because of this, it's also crucial to take into account the retail price of gasoline in your area.

What Lasts Longer Butane Or Propane?

Without analyzing each fuel's energy density, the cost discussion would be lacking. What if one fuel costs twice as much per unit of weight as another yet boils twice as much water as the more expensive fuel? Therefore, focusing only on the cost can be deceptive at times.

A 16 ounce propane tank lasts for two hours on a two-burner stove with high heat. It's interesting to note also that an 8 ounce butane canister has a two hours high flame and a four hours low flame duration on a portable butane stove. 

Propane torch on a white background

That proves that there is more energy in butane because 8 ounces of butane can run as long as 16 ounces of propane. You should also gauge the quality of the gas. Expect that your canister will last less time and that you will need to refill it more frequently if you buy cheap gas.

A butane torch on a white background

How To Use The Butane Or Propane Torches?

Torches might be frightening, but if you know how to handle them properly, they are highly useful tools. You can use a torch in several home and DIY chores, from cooking to soldering pipes. The most crucial thing to keep in mind is to employ a safe technique and the appropriate torch for the job.

1. Insert Fuel Filled Canisters To Fuel Propane/Butane Torches 

The bottom of a portable torch will include a refill port. Turn the torch upside-down and place the gas canister's nozzle inside the port.

Before removing the canister from the port, press and hold it firmly against the torch for a short period of time. Make sure to take out the gas canister before any gas seeps out because it just takes a moment to refuel a handheld torch.

As you insert the nozzle, you might hear a hissing sound, but once you have taken the canister out, there shouldn't be any gas escaping. Always use the right gas for the type of blowtorch you have. An explosion could result from using the incorrect gas!

2. Open The Gas Valve Of The Torch And Light The Nozzle To Start It 

Just enough valve opening will allow a little but continuous flow of gas to be released from your gas cylinder. Click the igniter or spark the gas with a sparker while holding the torch away from your body. The flame should ignite and begin to blow steadily without sputtering.

While it's blazing, keep your torch completely upright! To light the torch, turn the gas valve no more than a quarter turn. Otherwise, you risk releasing too much gas into the air, which could result in a fire plume.

3. Adjust the Flame's Intensity If Necessary Using The Valve

By adjusting the torch valve, you may produce various flame sizes. A larger flame will result from rotating the valve counterclockwise or opening it, whilst a smaller flame will result from turning it clockwise or shutting it.

No matter how big your flame is, keep it appearing to be in contact with the torch's tip. Otherwise, the torch will be giving off an excessive amount of gas.

4. Fully Close The Gas Valve After Using

When you wish to put out a torch, first close it at the fuel source. Your torch's flame will diminish as soon as the gas valve is fully shut. To burn off any gas that may still be present in the tube system, fully open the torch's valve.

The torch can then be safely disassembled once the flame has died out. Keep in mind that even after the flame has died down, the torch tip will still be extremely hot. Once you've finished using your torch, disassemble it right away.

To show a clear demonstration, a video on YouTube is shown below.

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Butane And Propane Torches?

Butane and propane torches have their advantages and disadvantages and some of them are listed below.

Advantages

Butane Torches

They are small. In comparison to propane torches, butane torches often have smaller bottles. They are able to access some locations that call for a more compact setup. Plus, butane burns quite cleanly. Both gases are alkanes and are safe to use while cooking or searing food.

A red colored butane torch placed on the table

Propane Torches

Propane torches are excellent for heating metals and sweating pipes. A propane torch can be used to weld specific kinds of metal. In colder climates, the propane torch is still usable. If you reside in a region where it freezes, this may be significant. 

Disadvantages

Butane Torches

You cannot use these butane torches in subfreezing temperatures. Because of its low boiling point, butane cannot function below freezing. Torches made of butane burn less quickly. They burn slower but are also cleaner. In some circumstances, slow-burning is a drawback.

Propane Torches

Because they are dirtier than butane torches, you can only use them outside. This gas emits a powerful smell that is hazardous. Make sure there is airflow if you are indoors.

For welding all metals, propane is not hot enough. For joining metals, the majority of welders use methylacetylene-propadiene propane (MAPP) gas or acetylene as they burn much hotter.

A blue propane torch

What Are the Best Butane And Propane Torches Available On The Market?

For additional information on the top butane and propane torches, see the list below:

Benzomatic TS8000

This propane torch from Benzomatic is made for quick and effective work. It has a swirl flame design, which promises higher peak temperatures reaching its limit without additional oxygen at about 3,000°F.

Check out this Benzomatic TS8000 propane torch on Amazon.

Blazer GT8000

It is a butane torch that fits comfortably in your palm and is small and portable with a wide base that allows you to sit on your bench safely and without tipping over. 

Check out this Blazer GT8000 butane torch on Amazon.

Hot Max 500g

The Hot Max 500G is a popular option among clients due to its high British thermal unit (BTU) ratings (500,000 BTU) and secure functioning. 

Check out this Hot Max 500g propane torch on Amazon.

Blusky Big

This Blusky butane torch is made of a brass nozzle with an anti-flare that produces a tight flame with a lot of heat up to 2,500°F.

Check out this Bulsky big butane torch on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

Collaged photo of propane and butane torch

Propane torches produce heat up to 3,623°F while butane torches produce heat up to 2,610°F. So, it cannot be disputed that propane torches produce more heat than butane torches. Regardless of the torch you are using, safety should never be compromised.

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