Alternate Fuels: Not Only for Automobiles Propane Conversion of a Residential Lawnmower

The purpose of this paper is to present the design and assembly of a working prototype of an alternate fueled lawnmower.

A variety of alternate fuels have been suggested to help reduce air quality problems. The conversion process from gasoline to Propane will be explained. To determine fuel consumption and developed horsepower, engine simulations were performed. Stoichiometric analysis was performed to determine and compare the products of combustion between Propane and gasoline.

The prototype Propane fueled lawnmower is able to operate efficiently and with less emissions as compared with a comparable gasoline fueled lawnmower. Engine output has been reduced by 27%. By burning Propane, a relatively clean fuel, engine emissions have been reduced by 60% as compared to gasoline.