R-407C Explained
R-407C is a mixture of hydrofluorocarbons used as a refrigerant. It is a zeotropic blend of difluoromethane (R-32), pentafluoroethane (R-125), and 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R-134a). Difluoromethane serves to provide the heat capacity, pentafluoroethane decreases flammability, tetrafluoroethane reduces pressure.[1] R-407C cylinders are colored burnt orange.
This refrigerant is intended as a replacement for R-22. R-22 production will be phased out by 2020 as per the Montreal Protocol.[2]
Key Characteristics:
- Colourless and Odourless: R407C is visually clear and does not emit a noticeable smell.
- Non-Flammable: Safe to use under normal operating conditions due to its non-flammable nature.[3]
- Moderate GWP: While R407C has a lower GWP than R22, it is important to manage its use responsibly to minimize environmental impact.[4]
Applications
R407C is employed in a variety of cooling and refrigeration contexts:
- Residential Air Conditioning: Ideal for cooling home environments efficiently.
- Commercial Air Conditioning: Suited for larger commercial spaces, including offices and retail locations.
- Industrial Refrigeration: Used in industrial processes requiring precise temperature control.
- Transport Refrigeration: Essential for maintaining temperatures in refrigerated transport systems.
Features & Benefits
R407C offers several notable benefits:
- Replacement for R22: Often used as a direct substitute for R22 in many existing systems, facilitating upgrades with minimal system modifications.
- High Efficiency: Provides effective cooling with good energy efficiency.
- Environmentally Friendly: Does not deplete the ozone layer, making it a more sustainable option than its predecessors.
- Equipment Compatibility: Generally compatible with R22 system components, though some adjustments may be necessary for optimal performance.[5]
Environmental and Safety Considerations
While R407C presents environmental advantages over older refrigerants, it still requires careful handling:
- Global Warming Potential: Despite its lower GWP compared to R22, R407C contributes to global warming if released. Effective leak management and system maintenance are essential.
- Handling Precautions: R407C should be managed with appropriate safety measures to avoid high-pressure exposure. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety protocols are recommended.
Safety Precautions
For safe handling of R407C, consider the following precautions:
- Protective Gear: Wear safety goggles, gloves, and appropriate clothing to prevent exposure.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in areas where R407C is used to avoid vapor accumulation.
- System Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain systems to prevent leaks and ensure efficiency.
- Emergency Readiness: Be prepared with emergency procedures in case of accidental exposure or release.[6]
Physical properties
Physical properties of R407C refrigerant| Property | Value |
|---|
| Formula | | -- Is there an easier way to get the "50%" parts to line up? --> |
|---|
| CH2F2 | R32 (23%) | | CF3CHF2 | R125 (25%) | | CF3CH2F | R134a (52%) | |
|
| Molecular Weight (kg/kmol) | 86.2 |
| Boiling point (°C) | -43.8 |
| Saturated liquid density (25°C), kg/m3 | 1138 |
| Saturated vapour density (25°C), kg/m3 | 43.8 |
| Critical temperature (°C) | 86.4 |
| Critical pressure, bar | 46.3 |
| Liquid heat capacity @ 25°C, (kJ/(kg·K)) | 1.533 |
| Vapour heat capacity @ 1.013 bar (kJ/(kg·K)) | 1.107 | |
Notes and References
- http://home2.btconnect.com/grss/Web/R407C.htm A brief history of refrigerant
- Web site: Unwrapping The Mystery Of R-407C. www.achrnews.com. 27 June 2016.
- Web site: Freon™ 407C (R-407C) Refrigerant R-22 Retrofit Refrigerant . 2024-11-12 . www.freon.com . en.
- Web site: March 22, 2002 . Refrigerants . August 28, 2024 . EPA.
- Web site: March 13, 2024 . Refrigerant gas cylinder . August 28, 2024 . Starkehvacr.com.
- Web site: July 28, 1995 . End-uses of refrigerant gas . August 28, 2024 . EPA.
