Butane is essential because it gives fire to almost all remote places and to places where they don't allow open flames and fires. In my case as a regular backpacker, I use this equipment when I want to cook my food in the outdoors while using my outdoor cookware and cooking system.
Since butane is kept under pressure, its disposal may be hazardous to people and the environment especially if you are not aware of the right way on how to minimize the danger that this flammable substance can cause.
As you read this writing piece, you will learn the right way on how to dispose of butane canisters so you can avoid the hazardous effects of not disposing of this cooking equipment properly.
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Materials needed:
For disposing of butane canisters, there are only a few things that you will need. Still, you have to be as careful as possible when choosing your tools as these materials determine the thin line between safety and danger.
Puncturing tools
This equipment is what you will use to make a hole through the sidewall of the canister. Any sharp object, in general, will work. What I recommend is a screwdriver. Never use a saw as this tool can create sparks, igniting the remaining fuel.
Jetboil Crunchit (optional)
via amazon.com
This lightweight, rugged stainless steel tool is useful in safely venting fuel before puncturing. This tool also complies with recycling standards, and it is compatible not only with Jetboil cooking systems but also with other canisters from other manufacturers which use a standard stove-canister attachment system. It can even work as a bottle opener as well.
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The step-by-step procedure on how to dispose of butane canisters
The courses of action that you need to make when disposing of butane canisters often sound easy; however, you may be hesitant to do them for the fear that the canister might explode like a grenade.
I've always had the same fear especially when I first used butane during my trek. As I get used to using it, I eventually get the hang of it through these three tips and tricks.
1. Vent the remaining gas in the canister
One way to do this step is to secure the butane canister to the appliance. Afterwards, let it burn down until you see that there is no sufficient amount of fuel to power a flame.
What I usually advise my friends is to use all the gas for cooking because I think it is better to burn these hydrocarbons that just release them.
You can also use a screwdriver to punch a hole through the canister's sidewall. Compressing the butane container prevents it from releasing all of the butane gas.
Alternatively, as mentioned above, you can also use a trusted and dependable product such as the Jetboil Crunchit. This equipment can help you puncture and compress the container safely.
via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xb2TLT66t00
2. Find nearby Hazardous Waste Recycling Sites
In the United States, many counties have Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection sites. These sites accept almost empty and empty butane cartridges and containers.
Some of these sites provide services for housebound citizens and handicapped. They can come right at their doorsteps to collect this butane stuff.
However, please take note that these sites do not usually accept damaged or leaking containers. Also, many of them also will not accept the butane container if it is more than 220 lbs or 25 gallons for every visit.
3. Put The Canister Into A Recycling Container
Make sure to separate the butane items from other trash until it is time to take them to an HHW collection site. Using a marker, you can also mark the canister "USED," and toss it in a recycle bin.
One possible and safe means of storing a butane canister is by sealing it in a plastic bag to hold any leaking or escaping fuel.
Moreover, make sure to store them as well in a cool, well-ventilated and dry place.
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Conclusion:
As we have learned, the steps that I discussed are just pretty easy and straightforward; however, you should be cautious of doing this procedure. These general steps also work whether you are using Jetboil, MSR, or other outdoor cooking systems.
To sum up, here are the takeaways that you can consider when learning how to dispose of butane canisters:
If there are things that you want to know further, you can post your comment below.
