5 Things to Consider while Buying Refrigerant Gases

Posted by Asit Roy on April 26th, 2016

To put it simply, refrigerant gases are usually mixtures in liquid form that are used in the refrigeration cycle. For example, it is refrigeration gases that maintain the cooling properties of air conditioners and refrigerators. Earlier, chlorofluorocarbons were extensively used for the purpose of cooling. However, owing to their disastrous effect on climate and especially the ozone layer, 21st century witnessed the entry of gases that are non-toxic and more importantly, non-hazardous to the environment. This is where r134a refrigerant plays an important role. It is primarily a replacement for the R-12 CFC refrigerant. R-12 was earlier used in centrifugal, rotary screw, scroll and reciprocating compressors.

R134a refrigerant properties

• R134a is a composition comprising 1:1:1.2-tetafluoroethane (R134a) butane and pentane.

• It is primarily used in stationary commercial refrigeration. It is also used in chilling systems and certain home appliances.

• R134a refrigeration is also used to substitute older R-12 refrigerant and cooling systems.

The main properties of r134a refrigerant gas

• Also known as tetraflouroethane, this refrigerant is the most widely used cooling agent since the discovery of the extremely hazardous effects of chlorofluorocarbons on the environment.

• It is considered safe for use as it is non-toxic, non-flammable and also importantly, non-corrosive.

• Apart from being used as a coolant for air conditioners, the r134a refrigerant is also used in the air conditioning systems of automobiles, in the manufacturing industry for plastic foam blowing and also in the pharmaceuticals industry as a propellant.

Things to remember while buying r134a refrigerant gas

• Artificial refrigeration is a very old tradition. It started way back in the 19th century.

• The basic job of refrigerant gases is to ensure that the enclosed area where they are used (in air condition in case of the r134a refrigerant) remains cool and that heat is eliminated from that area.

• The additional uses of refrigerants include increasing transport efficiency and in the storage of produce in the food industry.

• R134a refrigerant is a commonly used HFC family gas. It is easily available and one can source it locally or through online retailers. Because this refrigerant belongs to the relatively harmless HFC family, one does not need to be certified to make its purchase.

• 'Global warming potential’ is something that one needs to keep in mind. It is an important factor to consider, both for buyers, as well as stockers such as r134a suppliers. The effect that certain gases have on the ozone layer is less than conducive for the future of one and all.