Explosion-proof LPG tanks to enter the market by September

MANILA, Philippines - Explosion-proof cylinders for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are set for distribution this September after Eastern Petroleum shelled out P3 billion for its new venture, the company said on Tuesday.

The European-made tanks called EC Gas (Eastern Composite) are better than its typical counterpart since they are explosion-proof, see-through and lighter by 10 kilograms, Eastern Petroleum Group Chairman Fernando Martinez said.

About 200 dealers in Metro Manila and Calabarzon will be distributing the new LPG starting September this year as the company targets to have 1,000 outlets by September 2014.

“With more than 14 million LPG tanks in circulation, 30 percent of which needs recalibration, LPG-related fires are bound to happen due to its inferior material and natural wear and tear,” Martinez said, citing data from the Bureau of Fire Protection which showed that there are more than 800 LPG-related fires from 2005 until the first quarter of 2013.

He said the LPG initially costs P4,500 inclusive of the tank, the gas and the installation of new pipes in the household's stove. The refill price is pegged at P750.