Blackmer Compressors in the LPG Industry: Safe Transfer and Storage Applications
Presented by Industrial Air Services – Serving Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga with expert Blackmer compressor support for propane, butane, and LPG systems. Call (615) 641-3100 for safe and efficient LPG compressor solutions.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a widely used energy source, essential for heating, cooking, transportation, and industrial processing. But transferring and storing LPG isn’t just about moving liquid—it requires carefully managed pressure, safe handling practices, and equipment built to withstand the volatility of the fuel itself.
That’s where Blackmer reciprocating gas compressors shine. Engineered specifically for liquefied gas applications, Blackmer’s LB Series compressors have become a standard across LPG terminals, bulk plants, delivery trucks, and cylinder filling stations. Known for reliability, durability, and safety, these compressors help facilities move product efficiently and with confidence.
In this blog, we’ll explore how Blackmer compressors are used in the LPG industry and how Industrial Air Serviceshelps facilities across Tennessee keep operations running safely and profitably.
Why Compressors Are Essential for LPG Transfer
LPG is stored under pressure as a liquid. When pressure is released, it vaporizes quickly—making it challenging to pump in some situations. That’s why compressors are used instead of standard liquid pumps in several key scenarios.
A Blackmer compressor can:
Transfer liquid LPG from storage tanks to delivery trucks or cylinders
Assist in offloading LPG from railcars or tankers without power or pumping systems onboard
Recover vapor to equalize pressure between tanks and prevent product loss
Improve efficiency of filling stations by speeding up liquid transfer
Maintain safe tank pressure levels by moving vapor to holding vessels
Because LPG is flammable and pressurized, all this must be done with robust, sealed equipment designed to prevent leaks and ensure consistent performance.
Meet the LB Series: Blackmer’s LPG Workhorse
The Blackmer LB Series reciprocating gas compressor is purpose-built for liquefied gas service. It is widely used for propane, butane, isobutane, propylene, and other LPG blends.
Key features of the LB Series include:
Heavy-duty ductile iron construction for durability under pressure
Self-adjusting piston rod seals to minimize vapor leakage
High-efficiency valve plates for fast, quiet operation
Built-in pressure relief valves for safety
Compatibility with Class I, Division 1 explosion-proof motor systems
Compact design for easy integration into skids, platforms, or truck bodies
Available in a range of configurations (two-cylinder, four-cylinder, vertical, and horizontal), LB compressors can handle a variety of flow rates and pressure settings. They're ideal for stationary and mobile installations alike.
Common LPG Applications Using Blackmer Compressors
Bulk storage plants
Compressors are used to transfer LPG from railcars or transport trucks into bulk storage tanks and to recover vapors for pressure balancing or loss prevention.
Cylinder filling operations
LB compressors can draw liquid LPG from bulk tanks and push it into portable cylinders efficiently. They’re often used alongside automatic fillers to increase throughput.
Autogas fueling stations
LPG-powered vehicles (such as forklifts or fleet vehicles) require safe, fast fills. Compressors help maintain tank pressure and optimize fueling rates.
Delivery trucks and bobtails
Onboard compressors allow for self-powered unloading at customer sites. Blackmer’s compact LB models are commonly installed in truck-mounted skids.
Railcar unloading terminals
In facilities without onboard pumps or vapor return lines, compressors serve as the primary tool to safely move liquid and vapor between vessels.
Vapor recovery systems
As LPG evaporates during filling, compressors recover vapor and return it to storage, reducing emissions and product loss.
Safety Advantages of Using Blackmer in LPG Service
Explosion-proof motor compatibility for Class I, Div 1 areas
Sealed packing and distance-piece designs to minimize fugitive emissions
Integrated relief valves to prevent over-pressurization
ASME-compliant pressure-rated housings and fittings
Low-maintenance operation with easy access to service components
When installed and maintained correctly, Blackmer compressors provide a high level of safety and control in even the most demanding LPG environments.
Real-World Case Study: Improving Turnaround Time at an Alabama Filling Station
An LPG distributor near Florence, Alabama, was struggling with slow fills and product loss at its cylinder filling station. The system relied on gravity-fed hoses and manual venting to control pressure—a process that was inefficient and difficult to manage during peak season.
The site was retrofitted with a Blackmer LB601B compressor and explosion-proof control panel. They also added a vapor recovery line to minimize venting losses.
The results:
Reduced cylinder fill time by 35%
Eliminated vented vapor emissions
Improved tank turnover and storage balance
Reduced operator strain and improved safety
How Industrial Air Services Supports LPG Operators
Industrial Air Services offers full-service support for LPG facilities using Blackmer equipment. Whether you’re upgrading a single fill station or outfitting a new bulk plant, we provide:
Application-specific compressor sizing
On-site walk-throughs and safety checks
Motor and control panel selection
Explosion-proof installation assistance
OEM parts and rebuild kits
Preventive maintenance programs and service plans
We understand the safety-critical nature of LPG systems and bring decades of hands-on experience with Blackmer compressors to every job.
Ready to Upgrade Your LPG Compressor?
Blackmer’s LB Series compressors are the gold standard for LPG transfer—and Industrial Air Services is your local expert for selection, installation, and support. Whether you need a solution for vapor recovery, tank equalization, or faster product loading, we’ll help you get the right compressor for the job.
Call (615) 641-3100 to schedule a consultation, request a quote, or set up a service visit with a Blackmer-certified technician.
Stay compliant. Stay safe. Stay productive—with Blackmer compressors and Industrial Air Services on your side.
