If one cubic foot of Natural Gas is 1000 BTUH, what is the ratio of Dilution Air?

To determine the ratio of dilution air in relation to the combustion of natural gas, it's essential to understand the principles of how natural gas burns and the stoichiometric requirement for proper combustion.

When burning natural gas, there is a specific amount of air needed to achieve complete combustion, minimizing the production of harmful byproducts like carbon monoxide. The common stoichiometric ratio for natural gas, which is primarily composed of methane (CH4), requires around 10 parts of air to 1 part of gas by volume.

However, the question specifies that 1 cubic foot of natural gas produces 1000 BTUH. In the context of combustion and efficiency, the ideal dilution air ratio considers the energy content and the amount of air needed for safe and efficient burning. Evaluating the data, a dilution air ratio of 15:1 indicates that for every part of natural gas, there would be 15 parts of air, allowing for complete combustion and helping to prevent excessive heat or pressure variations within a gas appliance.

This ratio reflects a balance between safety and efficiency while ensuring that enough air is supplied to facilitate optimum combustion and mitigate risks associated with incomplete burning, like the accumulation of carbon monoxide.

In summary, the dilution air ratio of 15 is established based