Is R134a and HFC?

Is R134a and HFC?

R134a was the first chlorine free (ODP = 0) HFC refrigerant that was tested comprehensively. It is now used world-wide in many refrigeration and air conditioning units with good results. As well as being used as a pure substance, R134a is also applied as a component of a variety of blends.

Is HFC-134a safe?

Also, R-134a is a very safe refrigerant with an ASHRAE safety classification of A1. This means it is not flammable and has very low toxicity levels. Because HFC-134a has no chlorine in its molecule, it has a zero ozone-depletion potential (ODP) and doesn’t deplete the stratospheric ozone layer.

Is HFA 134a flammable?

R-134A is not flammable at ambient temperatures and atmospheric pressure. However, this material will become combustible when mixed with air under pressure and exposed to strong ignition sources.

What does HFC-134a smell like?

HFC-134a is a nonflammable, colorless gas or liquified gas with a faint ethereal odor. The odor, characterized as weak and nonirritating (Shulman and Sadove 1967), may not be noticeable for most individuals and thus will not serve as a warning property.

Is R134a phased out?

On September 26, 2016, the EPA announced that, under the EPA SNAP (Significant New Alternatives Policy) program, specific refrigerants including R134a and R410A can no longer be used in new chillers, effective January 1, 2024.

What is HFC Free?

HFC-free fridges use a refrigerant, R-600a or isobutane. R-600a has a very low global warming potential (GWP) of 3 compared with R-134a, the typical HFC used in fridges, which has a GWP around 1,400! If you see “R600a” on this sticker, congratulations, you found an HFC-free fridge!

What happens if you breathe R134a?

The inhalation of high concentrations of R134a vapour may cause temporary central nervous system depression, with narcosis, lethargy and anaesthetic effects. Continued breathing of high concentrations of R134a vapours may produce cardiac irregularities, unconsciousness and death.