Natural Refrigerant - Hydrocarbon

Hydrocarbons are refrigerants that can be used as an alternative to fluorocarbon refrigerants in some refrigeration and air conditioning applications. The term ‘Hydrocarbon’ encompasses following: A) Ethane (R170) B) Propane(R290) C) Butane (R600) D) Isobutane (R600a) E) Propylene (R1270) Properties 1) Hydrocarbons are highly flammable. 2) They have a low toxicity. 3) Hydrocarbon refrigerants are fully compatible with nearly all lubricants commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems. One major exception to this rule is lubricants containing silicone and silicate. Comparison with HCFC 1) HVAC professionals have made a comparative study on the performance of hydrocarbon refrigerants R290, R600a and R1270 with that of HCFC refrigerant R22 and found that in comparison to R22, hydrocarbon refrigerants have similar or better ability. 2) An experiment o...