Solvents Australia Refrigerant Management

Refrigerants

Forane® 22 Forane® 404A Forane® 409A Forane® 427A Forane® 407C Forane® 410A Forane® 134a Forane® 408A Forane® 507A Forane® 407A Forane® 1234yf

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Refrigerant Technical Data

Solvents Australia sells the Forane® range of refrigerants manufactured by Arkema. The range of products includes Forane® R 134a, commonly used in domestic refrigeration and automotive air conditioning and Forane® R410A, the refrigerant now frequently used in domestic and commercial air conditioning systems. With the phaseout of R22 well advanced and supplies restricted by import quotas, Solvents Australia has established a management program for reclaiming refrigerant recovered from equipment being decommissioned. Participants in the program can gain access to factory reclaimed R22.

Products and Services

Forane® 22 refrigerant (R-22), an HCFC, has properties providing for a broad range of applications including residential air conditioning, refrigeration, and other cooling applications. R-22 is going through a mandatory phase out according to the schedule set by the Montreal Protocol. End-users should consult their local wholesaler or refrigerant manufacturer for more information on the R-22 phase-out. Application: R-22 is used in a variety of applications including residential and commercial air conditioning, refrigeration, chillers, room air conditioning, transport refrigeration and other comfort cooling and refrigeration applications. Properties & Performance: R-22 has properties making it a useful refrigerant in many air conditioning and refrigeration applications.R-22 is a single component, non-flammable, non-toxic refrigerant with an A1 ASHRAE safety rating. Lubrication: R-22 works with mineral oil, alkylbenzene oil or POE oil.End-users should check with the equipment manufacturers guidelines for specific oil selection directions. Charging: Charging with R-22 can be done either as a vapor or a liquid. End- users should check with their equipment manufacturers guidelines for specific charging instructions.

Forane® 22

Properties R-22

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 86.5 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -41.3 Critical Temperature (°F) 204.8 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0.055 Global Warming Potential (GWP) 1,500

Forane® 404A refrigerant (R-404A) is a non-ozone depleting, near azeotropic blend of HFC refrigerants R-125, R-143a and R-134a. Application: R-404A is formulated to closely match the properties of R-502, making it useful for a variety of medium and low temperature refrigeration applications. R-404A has been approved by many refrigeration compressor and system manufacturers for use in new refrigeration equipment such as food display and storage cases, cold storage rooms, ice machines, transportation, and process refrigeration. Properties & Performance: R-404A is designed to meet the needs of many new and existing refrigeration systems. R-404A is near azeotropic HFC refrigerant blend rated A1 by ASHRAE (lowest levels of toxicity and flammability) having zero ozone depletion potential. Lubrication: R-404A is immiscible with the traditional lubricants used in R-502 systems. As such, the original oil should be replaced with POE when retrofitting to R-404A, and the presence of the old oil should be reduced to 5% or less of the original charge. Failure to do so may result in inadequate oil return or other system problems. Charging: Due to the zeotropic nature of R-404A, it should be charged as a liquid to prevent fractionation (changes in refrigerant composition due to vapor charging. See Definitions - Fractionation). In situations where vapor is normally charged into a system, a valve should be installed in the charging line to flash the liquid to vapor during charging. Testing shows that fractionation due to system leaks is typically not a problem for R-404A. Fix the leak and top off the charge. Retrofit: R-404A can be used to retrofit many existing R-502 systems. The physical and thermodynamic properties of the blend cause it to behave much like R-502 when used as a retrofit but it is not intended to be a direct “drop-in” for R-502 systems. Due to higher operating pressures associated with the use of R-404A as opposed to R-502, OEM product specific retrofit recommendations should be consulted for any and all pressure relief modifications and/or requirements.

Forane® 404A

Properties R-404A

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 97.6 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -51.5 Critical Temperature (°F) 161.6 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0 Global Warming Potential (GWP) 3,260

Forane® 409A refrigerant (R-409A or FX-56) is a low ozone depleting blend of HCFC refrigerants R-22, R-124, and R-142b. R-409A is formulated to closely resemble the properties of R-12. Application: Applications include many medium temperature refrigeration systems, vending machines, refrigerators, positive displacement chillers, humidifiers and other systems using R-12 or R-500. Properties & Performance: R-409A has properties and performance similar to R-12 and R-500. Low side pressures are similar to those of R-12, while high side pressures will typically be 15 to 25 psi higher. Equal or better heat transfer characteristics are usually obtained when retrofitting from R-12 to R-409A Lubrication: R-409A works well with the MO or AB found in R-12 or R-500 systems, and typically does not require an oil change. For low temperature, mineral oil based R-12 applications (evaporator temperatures less than 0°F); a partial oil change (less than 30%) to alkylbenzene is recommended. R-409A is fully miscible with AB and POE oils. Charging: Due to the zeotropic nature of R-409A, it should be charged as a liquid to prevent fractionation (changes in refrigerant composition due to vapor charging. See Definitions- Fractionation). In situations where vapor is normally charged into a system, a valve should be installed in the charging line to flash the liquid to vapor while charging. Charging weight ratios of R-409A are usually 85 - 90% of the charge weight of R-12. Retrofit: R-409A is the recommended retrofit for R-12 and R-500 stationary DX systems, where an oil change to POE is not practical. R-409A is not recommended for use in automotive air conditioning system, or systems that utilize a flooded evaporator (i.e. centrifugal chillers). For these systems, R-134a is the recommended retrofit product. Retrofitting Procedures 1. Establish baseline performance. Note the oil type in use and any system operating data (if system is operating properly). Check for existing leaks and identify any needed repairs. 2. Recover the existing refrigerant charge (DO NOT vent to atmosphere). Weigh the amount of refrigerant removed. 3. Perform any repairs identified in step 1 and fix any leaks. 4. Replace the filter-drier, and if necessary, elastomeric seals (O-rings. sight glasses. etc.). Verify the condition of the system oil; replace if necessary. 5. Oil changes are typically not required for R-409A. For low temperature mineral oil based systems, a partial (greater than 30%) oil change to AB is recommended. 6. Evacuate the system (less than 500 microns) and insure it maintains a vacuum. If vacuum is lost, it may indicate that leaks are present in the system. 7. Charge system with R-409A refrigerant. Remove refrigerant as liquid only from cylinder. The initial charge amount should be approximately 85 – 90% of the standard charge for R-12 for TXV systems, and 80 % for cap tube systems. 8. Adjust TXV set point and/or refrigerant charge to achieve the desired superheat. Low side pressure control settings may also need to be adjusted. 9. Monitor oil levels in the compressor. If necessary, adjust oil amounts to attain normal operating level (mid sight glass). 10. Label system clearly, indicating the type and amounts of system refrigerant and oil.

Forane® 409A

Properties R-409A

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 97.4 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -30.1 Critical Temperature (°F) 224.2 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0.05

Forane® 427A refrigerant (R-427A) is a non-ozone depleting blend of HFC refrigerants R-32, R-125, R-143a, and R-134a. R-427A was developed as a retrofit refrigerant for many R-22 applications. Application: R-427A is an R-22 retrofit for low and medium temperature refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Properties & Performance: R-427A is designed to meet the needs of many new and existing air conditioning and refrigeration systems. R-427A is a zeotropic HFC refrigerant blend, which is rated A1 by ASHRAE (lowest levels of toxicity and flammability) and has zero ozone depletion potential. R-427A has comparable capacity to R-22 and better efficiency than most other R-22 replacements. R-427A’s discharge temperatures are typically 15 – 40°F lower than those of R-22, and it has one of the lowest global warming potentials (GWP) of the R-22 retrofits. Lubrication: Mineral oil and alkylbenzene are often acceptable with R-427A if the system has an oil separator and reliable oil return with R-22. Otherwise the oil must be changed to POE. If POE is required, usually only one change-out of the existing lubricant is needed, as R-427A can tolerate high levels of residual mineral oil or alkylbenzene remaining in the system. Charging: Due to the zeotropic nature of the R-427A blend, it should only be charged as liquid to prevent fractionation (changes in the designed refrigerant composition, See Definitions - Fractionation). In situations where vapor would normally be charged into a system, a valve should be installed in the charging line to flash liquid from the cylinder into vapor. Never introduce liquid into a running system, as compressor damage may result. Manifold gage sets, charging machines and tanks used with R-22 should be compatible for use with R-427A, provided they have been properly evacuated to prevent mixing of the two gases. Retrofit: R-427A was developed to minimize the work necessary during an R-22 system retrofit: therefore, retrofits to R-427A do not require change-out of expansion valves or other major components. Expansion devices may need to be adjusted to optimize system performance. Retrofitting Procedures 1. Establish baseline performance. Note the oil type in use and any system operating data (if system is operating properly). Check for existing leaks and identify any needed repairs. 2. Recover the existing refrigerant charge (DO NOT vent to atmosphere). Weigh the amount of refrigerant removed. 3. Perform any repairs identified in step 1 and fix any leaks. 4. Replace the filter-drier, and if necessary, elastomeric seals (O-rings, sight glasses, etc.). Verify the condition of the system oil; replace if necessary. 5. Determine if an oil change is needed. If an oil separator is currently used and reliable oil return has been established with R-22, replacement of original mineral oil or alkylbezene is often not needed (skip to step 7). If no oil separator is present, drain existing mineral oil or alkylbenzene from the compressor sump, suction line accumulators, etc. Record the amount of oil removed. 6. Add an equivalent amount of OEM recommended POE oil. In most cases, no flushing is required. Only one oil change is required with up to 15% residual mineral oil or alkylben-zene accommodated. 7. Evacuate the system (less than 500 microns) and ensure it maintains a vacuum. If vacuum is lost, it may indicate that leaks are present in the system. 8. Charge system with R-427A refrigerant. Remove refrigerant as liquid only from cylinder. The initial weight should be approximately 95% of the standard charge for R-22, charging up to 100% if necessary. 9. Adjust TXV set-point and/or refrigerant charge to achieve the desired superheat. Low side pressure control settings may also need to be adjusted. 10. Monitor oil level in the compressor. If necessary, adjust oil amount to attain normal operating level (mid-sight glass). 11. Label system clearly, indicating the type and amounts of system refrigerant and oil.

Forane® 427A

Forane® 407C refrigerant (R-407C) is a non-ozone depleting blend of HFC refrigerants R-32, R-125 and R-134a. It has been formulated to closely match the properties of R-22. Application: Applications include residential and commercial air conditioning systems, non- flooded evaporator chillers, and some commercial refrigeration systems. Since R-407C has similar properties to R-22, it is possible (with modifications) to use it in the same equipment designed for R-22 today. Properties & Performance: R-407C is designed to meet the needs of many new and existing air conditioning and refrigeration systems. R-407C is a zeotropic HFC refrigerant blend, rated A1 by ASHRAE (lowest levels of toxicity and flammability) having zero ozone depletion potential. Lubrication: POE lubricants must be used with R-407C since its components are not miscible with the mineral oil or alkylbenzene lubricants found in most R-22 systems. When retrofitting, a lubricant flush procedure is necessary to reduce the original oil content below 5%. New R-407C equipment will be charged with the OEM recommended lubricant, ready to use with R-407C. Charging: Due to the zeotropic nature of R-407C, it should be charged as a liquid to prevent fractionation (changes in refrigerant composition due to vapor charging. See Definitions- Fractionation). In situations where vapor is normally charged into a system, a valve should be installed in the charging line to flash the liquid to vapor while charging. Retrofit: R-407C can be used to retrofit existing R-22 systems in positive displacement, direct expansion refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. R-407C should not be used in centrifugal chillers or other equipment that uses a flooded evaporator due to its high temperature glide. Retrofitting Procedures 1. Establish baseline performance. Note the oil type in use and any system operating data (if system is operating properly). Check for existing leaks and identify any needed repairs. 2. Recover the existing refrigerant charge (DO NOT vent to atmosphere). Weigh the amount of refrigerant removed. 3. Drain existing oil from the compressor sump, suction line accumulators, etc. Record the amount of oil removed. Add an equivalent amount of OEM recommended POE oil. 4. Recharge the system with the recovered R-22 charge and run the system (at least 1 hour) to circulate the new lubricant. 5. Recover the R-22 charge again and check the residual oil content of the lubricant. The amount of the original lubricant in the POE must be less than 5%. 6. Repeat steps 3 – 5, as needed, until the required oil purity level is reached. Once the oil flushes are completed, standard maintenance should be conducted (i.e. filter-drier change, leak repairs). 7. Evacuate the system (less than 500 microns) and ensure it maintains a vacuum. If vacuum is lost, it may indicate that leaks are present in the system. 8. Charge system with R-407C refrigerant. Remove refrigerant as liquid only from cylinder. The initial charge weight should be approximately 90% of the standard charge for R-22, charging up to 95% if necessary. 9. Adjust TXV set point and/or refrigerant charge to achieve the desired superheat. Low side pressure control settings may also need to be adjusted. 10. Monitor oil level in the compressor. If necessary, adjust oil amount to attain normal operating level (mid-sight glass). 11. Label system clearly, indicating the type and amounts of system refrigerant and oil.

Forane® 407C

Properties R-407C

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 86.2 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -46.1 Critical Temperature (°F) 187.2 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0 Global Warming Potential (GWP) 1,525

Forane® 410A refrigerant (R-410A) is a non-ozone depleting blend of hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) R-32 and R-125 developed as a replacement refrigerant for air conditioning applications currently designed for (HCFC) R-22. Due to the higher refrigerating capacity and pressures of R-410A, it should not be used as a retrofit refrigerant in R-22 equipment. Application: Forane® 410A refrigerant is used in new residential and commercial air conditioning systems, heat pumps, dehumidifiers and small chillers. R-410A is also being considered in some medium temperature refrigeration applications as well. Properties & Perfomance: R-410A is a near-azeotropic HFC refrigerant blend that meets the industry’s needs for many new air conditioning systems. R-410A has received an A1 safety rating from ASHRAE (lowest levels of toxicity and flammability) having zero ozone depletion potential. R-410A is a higher pressure and capacity refrigerant than R-22, requiring equipment and components specifically designed to accommodate the resulting higher system pressures and lower flow rates needed. Typical operating pressures of an R-410A system will be 50% to 60% higher than those in an R-22 system at comparable operating conditions. R-410A also has significantly higher volumetric refrigerating capacity than R-22 under most operating conditions. This allows OEMs to manufacture equipment of similar capacity and efficiency to R-22 in a smaller package. Lubrication: To ensure proper oil return, R-410A is typically used with polyolester (POE) oil. The HFC components of R-410A are not miscible with mineral oil or alkylbenzene. Manufacturers provide new R-410A systems and compressors already charged with the appropriate lubricant. Care must be taken when handling POE lubricants because they are hygroscopic, which means that they can readily absorb moisture from the air. This is especially a concern when handling POEs in humid environments. High levels of moisture in the system can lead to oil degradation and system failure. Charging: Due to the zeotropic nature of the R-410A blend, it should only be charged as liquid to prevent fractionation (changes in the designed refrigerant composition, See Definitions - Fractionation). In situations where vapor would normally be charged into a system, a valve should be installed in the charging line to flash liquid from the cylinder into vapor. Never introduce liquid into a running system, as compressor damage may result. R-410A requires the use of manifold gauge sets, recovery machines and cylinders specifically designed and rated for its higher pressures. Retrofit: Due to the significantly higher operating pressures and capacities of R-410A, it should never be used as a retrofit for R-22 systems. R-410A should only be used with equipment designed specifically for use with R-410A.

Forane® 410A

Properties R-410A

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 72.6 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -61.6 Critical Temperature (°F) 162.0 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0 Global Warming Potential (GWP) 1,725

Forane® 134a refrigerant (R-134a) is a non-ozone depleting HFC refrigerant with properties very similar to R-12. It can be used both as a pure refrigerant in a number of traditional R-12 applications and as a component in refrigerant blends targeted to replace R-502 and R-22. Applications: Applications include automotive air conditioning, chillers, medium temperature commercial refrigeration, refrigeration appliances, and transport refrigeration. Compressor and system manufacturers are selling new equipment specifically designed for R-134a. In addition Arkema’s laboratory testing and field trials have indicated R-134a will work in the retrofit of many existing R-12 and R-500 installations. Properties & Performance: R-134a is designed to meet the needs of many air conditioning and medium temperature refrigeration systems. R-134a is a single component refrigerant rated A1 by ASHRAE (lowest levels of toxicity and flammability) having zero ozone bdepletion potential. Lubrication: POE or PAG (polyalkylene glycol, auto only) lubricants must be used with R- 134a since it is not miscible with mineral oil or alkylbenzene lubricants found in many systems. Special care must be taken when using POE or PAG oils due to their hygroscopicity (moisture absorption) when left exposed to the atmosphere. When retrofitting, a lubricant flush procedure is necessary to reduce the original oil content below 5% of the total oil charge. New R-134a equipment will be charged with the OEM recommended lubricant, ready to use with R-134a. Charging: Charging with R-134a can be done either as a vapor or a liquid. End-users should check with their equipment manufacturers guidelines for specific charging instructions. Retrofit: R-134a can be used to retrofit some existing R-12 systems including R-12 centrifugal chillers, semi-hermetic, reciprocating, and screw refrigeration applications, industrial refrigeration plants, automotive systems and some hermetic compressor applications. When retrofitting R-12 systems to R-134a, it is necessary to replace the existing lubricant with POE oil, except in some automotive retrofit applications, which require PAG oil. In most cases the mineral oil or alkylbenzene oil levels must be reduced below 5% of the new POE charge. Check with OEMs for any specific recommendations regarding oils or procedures. Remove as much of the existing lubricant as possible, add POE, and run the system on R-12 for some time. When the residual oil concentration is appropriate, remove R-12, replace the filter-drier, and charge R-134.

Forane® 134a

Properties R-134a

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 102.0 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -14.9 Critical Temperature (°F) 214.1 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0 Global Warming Potential (GWP) 1,300

Forane® 408A (FX-10) is a low ozone depletion potential blend of HCFC-22 and HFC refrigerants R-125 and R-143a. Forane® 408A provides a convenient and reliable retrofit solution for medium- and low-temperature refrigeration systems now using R-502. It has been blended to closely match the physical and refrigeration properties of R-502. Don't mix Forane® 408A with R-502 or use it to top off existing systems. Forane® 408A has been proven in independent laboratory testing that it can save 8% in energy cost compared to R-502. Compared to our competitor's products it can save up to 20% in energy costs, so supermarkets and large energy users find Forane® 408A to be a very attractive retrofit solution. Refrigerants used in the past were either single-component products or blends having a small glide that behaved as a single component. For the most part, blends having a small glide like Forane® 408A will perform the same as an azeotrope like R-502. Keep in mind that: The temperature glide of Forane® 408A is less than 1° F (0.6°C). This glide is usually not noticeable compared to normal temperature changes due to pressure drops across the tubing, for example. In general, manufacturers have not indicated special considerations for low-glide blends in normal retrofit applications. Forane® 408A will not significantly change in composition due to fractionation. However, there will be a slight difference in composition in the vapor phase, which is in equilibrium with liquid, such as in a cylinder. Always transfer Forane® 408A as a liquid from the cylinder to charging equipment or systems. Using Forane® 408A to Retrofit R-502 Systems Forane® 408A can be used in most existing R-502 installations, with the following considerations: Performance -- In most retrofit applications, the capacity and efficiency of Forane® 408A is slightly higher than R-502. The compressor, line sizes, and other components will not need replacement and should operate the same. Lubrication -- Forane® 408A can be used with mineral oil or alkylbenzene oil. Polyolester lubricants might also be suitable. Systems using R-502 and mineral oil that show adequate lubricant return to the compressor can continue to use mineral oil with Forane® 408A. Alkylbenzene alone or in combination with mineral oil is the best choice to improve lubricant miscibility and return to the compressor. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines for additional recommendations. Material Compatibility -- Check our retrofit literature and obtain recommendations from equipment manufacturers regarding compatibility of materials with Forane® 408A. Replace any materials not acceptable for use with Forane® 408A. In general, materials compatible with R-22 can be used with Forane® 408A. Retrofit Procedures Gather baseline data while the system is still operating on R-502. Check the system for leaks to identify necessary repairs. Recover and weigh existing R-502 charge. If needed, remove mineral oil and replace with alkylbenzene or polyolester. Replace filter driers. Evacuate system using a deep vacuum (at least 250 microns). Charge system with R-408A using liquid phase only. (Approximate charge will be 75 to 85% of R-502 nominal charge.) Properly mark and identify R-408A refrigerant charge for the retrofitted system. Start system and adjust expansion device, if needed. Note: Some original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) may have different lubricant, safety, or retrofit requirements. Consult OEM guidelines for details.

Forane® 408A

Properties R-408A

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 87.0 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -47.9 Critical Temperature (°F) 182.6 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0.026 Global Warming Potential (GWP) 2,650

Forane® 507A refrigerant (R-507A) is a non-ozone depleting, azeotropic blend of HFC refrigerants R-125 and R-143a. R-507 is blended to closely match the properties of R-502, making it a good refrigerant for some medium and most low temperature refrigeration applications. Application: R-507A is approved by compressor and system manufacturers for use in new refrigeration equipment such as food display and storage cases, cold storage rooms, transportation and process refrigeration. Properties & Performance: R-507A is designed to meet the needs of many new and existing refrigeration systems. R-507A is an azeotropic HFC refrigerant blend rated A1 by ASHRAE (lowest levels of toxicity and flammability) having zero ozone depletion potential. Lubrication: R-507A is immiscible with the traditional lubricants used in R-502 systems. As such, the original oil should be replaced with POE when retrofitting to R-507A, and the presence of the old oil should be reduced to 5% or less of the original charge. Failure to do so may result in inadequate oil return or other system problems. Charging: R-507A should be charged in liquid phase to ensure the correct composition is being used in the refrigeration system. In situations where vapor is normally charged into a system, a valve should be installed in the charging line to flash the liquid to vapor while charging. R-507A will require the use of manifold gauge sets, recovery machines and recovery tanks specifically designed for its higher pressures. Retrofit: R-507A can be used to retrofit many existing R-502 systems. However, it is not intended to be a direct "drop-in" for R-502 systems. Due to higher operating pressures associated with the use of R-507A as opposed to R-502, OEM product specific retrofit recommendations should be consulted for any pressure relief modifications and/or requirements.

Forane® 507A

Properties R-507A

Average Molecular Weight (g/mol) 98.8 Normal Boiling Point (°F) -52.8 Critical Temperature (°F) 159.8 ASHRAE Safety Group Classification A1 Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) 0 Global Warming Potential (GWP) 3,300

Forane® 407A (R-407A) refrigerant is a non-ozone depleting blend of HFC refrigerants R-32, R-125, and R-134a. R-407A was developed as a retrofit refrigerant for some R-22 applications. Application: R-407A is a R-22 retrofit for medium and low temperature refrigeration systems. It is not intended for air-conditioning applications, nor recommended for use in systems with flooded evaporators. Properties & Performance: R-407A is designed to meet the needs of many new and existing refrigeration systems. R-407A is a zeotropic HFC refrigerant blend, which is rated A1 by ASHRAE (lowest levels of toxicity and flammability) and has zero ozone depletion potential. R-407A is a close match to R-22’s capacities and flow rates, making it well suited as a retrofit for R-22 in supermarket and food storage applications. Additionally, R-407A is one of the more energy efficient R-22 retrofit options available for refrigeration applications. Discharge temperatures of R-407A will be noticeably lower than those seen with R-22. System pressures for R-407A are higher than R-22, particularly in high ambient environments. Consult the system or component OEMs for recommendations on how best to accommodate the changes in operating pressures. Lubrication: As with many HFC blends, R-407A will require a change to polyolester oil (POE) to ensure reliable oil return and circulation throughout the system. For systems currently using an oil separator, multiple oil flushes may not be required. Charging: Due to the zeotropic nature of the R-407A blend, it should always be charged as a liquid to prevent fractionation (changes in the designed refrigerant composition). For installations where vapor is normally fed into the low side of a running system, a fl ash valve should be installed in the charging line to prevent liquid from entering the compressor. When retrofitting from R-22 to R-407A, the new charge weight will typically be 95 – 100 % of the original charge weight of R-22. Retrofit: In most cases, overall system capacities and efficiencies of an R-407A retrofit will be similar to those of R-22. Differences in actual performance will depend largely on system design, operating conditions, and ambient temperatures. Refrigerant flow rates for R-407A are often slightly higher than R-22. Expansion valves that are operating properly with R-22 will typically not have to be replaced. Slight expansion valve adjustments may be required to optimize system performance. Operating pressures will be higher, and may require changes to cut-out settings and pressure relief devices. Always consult the OEM for recommendations before performing any system retrofit. Retrofitting Procedures 1. Establish baseline performance. Note the oil type in use and any system operating data (if system is operating properly). Check for existing leaks and identify any needed repairs. 2. Recover the existing refrigerant charge (DO NOT vent to atmosphere). Weigh the amount of refrigerant removed. 3. Perform any repairs identified in step 1 and fix any leaks. 4. Replace the filter-drier and, if necessary, elastomeric seals (O-rings, sight glasses, etc.). Verify the condition of the system oil; replace if necessary. 5. R-407A is immiscible with mineral oil and alkylbenzene, and will require most of the original system oil to be replaced. Drain existing mineral oil or alkylbenzene from the compressor sump, suction line accumulators, etc. Record the amount of oil removed. 6. Add an equivalent amount of OEM recommended POE oil. 7. Evacuate the system (less than 500 microns) and ensure it maintains a vacuum. If vacuum is lost, it may indicate that leaks are present in the system. 8. Charge system with R-407A refrigerant. Remove refrigerant as liquid only from cylinder. The initial weight should be approximately 95% of the standard charge for R-22, charging up to 100% if necessary. 9. Adjust TXV set-point and/or refrigerant charge to achieve the desired superheat. Low side pressure control settings may also need to be adjusted. 10. Monitor oil level in the compressor. If necessary, adjust oil amount to attain normal operating level (mid-sight glass). 11. Label system clearly, indicating the type and amounts.

Forane® 407A

Arkema launches an industrial production project in Europe of a low-GWP* fluorinated gas for automotive air-conditioning.Arkema will invest in European production of a new low-GWP fluorinated gas- R1234yf. Beginning in 2011, this new low GWP gas will gradually replace the HFC134a gas currently used in auto AC systems. As one of the world’s leading fluorinated gas producers, Arkema is anticipating more restrictive environmental standards, particularly the adoption of European Directive 2006/40/CE, and is now developing next-generation fluorochemicals to help minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Arkema has launched a program for the industrialization of a new product, R1234yf, as a 4th generation substitute for HFC134a in automotive air- conditioning systems. R1234yf has a negligible GWP compared to HFC134a. Arkema is already producing laboratory scale quantities of R1234yf, and intends to produce on an industrial scale in Europe, using an innovative process developed at Arkema, within the time frame established under Directive 2006/40/CE.The GWP limit imposed on the automotive industry by this European Directive requires the substitution of HFC134a refrigerant fluid used in automotive air-conditioning systems by 2011 for new automotive manufacturing platforms, and by 2017 for every new vehicle sold in Europe. With this project, Arkema confirms its long-term commitment to meeting customers’ needs, in terms of both location (Europe, North America and Asia) and application (mobile and stationary air-conditioning, refrigeration, blowing agents, solvents and aerosols). Arkema, a world leader in fluorochemicals A world-scale fluorochemicals producer, Arkema currently operates four industrial facilities on three continents: Pierre-Bénite in France, Zaramillo in Spain, Changshu in China, and Calvert City in the United States. The products manufactured in these four plants are sold under the Forane® trademark to the air-conditioning (construction and automotive), refrigeration, insulating foam, solvent, and aerosol industries. *Global Warming Potential, which characterizes every gas in terms of greenhouse effect.

Forane® 1234yf Properties R-408A