What is the minimum water-cooling rate required for a typical 500-gallon aboveground propane tank?

The minimum water-cooling rate for a typical 500-gallon aboveground propane tank is crucial for safety during a fire scenario. Propane tanks can become incredibly hazardous in high heat situations, as the pressure inside the tank increases, leading to potential ruptures or explosions if not properly cooled.

A cooling rate of 100-150 gallons per minute (GPM) is effective because it ensures a sufficient volume of water is reaching the tank to absorb heat and prevent an increase in internal pressure. This cooling rate is based on established guidelines that take into account the size of the tank and the thermal load it may experience during an emergency.

This water-cooling strategy protects both the integrity of the tank and ensures public safety during incidents involving propane, making the selected rate a standard practice in fire safety alongside propane storage regulations. The other options imply higher cooling rates that might be unnecessary for a typical 500-gallon tank, therefore potentially leading to resource wastage without additional safety benefits.