What Do the Names of Refrigerants Mean?
The names of refrigerants are not simply random combinations of letters and numbers. Behind each name lies a system that provides information about the chemical structure and properties of the gas. In this article, we will explain the basic logic behind naming refrigerants and the meanings of the most commonly used gases.
1. Naming System of Refrigerant Gases
Refrigerant gases are generally named according to a standard system developed by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers). This system refers to the molecular structure of the gas and is composed as follows:
- Letter R : It means "Refrigerant".
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Numbers : Indicates the chemical components of the gas.
- First digit: Number of carbon atoms (if a carbon is missing, this is taken as "n-1").
- Second digit: Number of hydrogen atoms.
- Third digit: Number of fluorine atoms.
- If other halogen atoms are present, they are indicated with additional information.
This system makes it easier to understand the physical and chemical properties of the gas.
2. Name Meanings of Commonly Used Refrigerants
R-22
- Chemical Name : Chlorodifluoromethane
- Description : R-22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) gas. It consists of 1 carbon, 1 hydrogen, 2 fluorine, and 1 chlorine atom. Its use is restricted in many regions because it damages the ozone layer.
R-410A
- Chemical Name : Mixture of Difluoromethane (R-32) and Pentafluoromethane (R-125)
- Description : R-410A, a blend of two different HFC gases, does not harm the ozone layer. However, it has a high global warming potential (GWP).
R-32
- Chemical Name : Difluoromethane
- Description : R-32 is a single-component HFC gas. It has a lower GWP and higher energy efficiency compared to R-410A, making it an environmentally friendly option.
R-134a
- Chemical Name : 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane
- Description : R-134a, an HFC gas, was widely used in vehicle air conditioning and commercial refrigeration systems. However, due to its high GWP, it is gradually being replaced by alternative gases.
R-744
- Chemical Name : Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
- Description : R-744 is a natural refrigerant. While environmentally friendly, it requires high pressure. It is particularly preferred in commercial and industrial applications.
R-717
- Chemical Name : Ammonia (NH₃)
- Description : R-717 is a natural gas that has been used in industrial systems for many years. It has a low environmental impact, but it should be used with caution because it is toxic.
3. Special Cases in Naming
Some gases may have additional letters and symbols in their names:
- Letters A or B : Indicates an isomeric form of the gas. For example, R-123 and R-123a have different structures.
- Blends : Letters such as "A" are added to express a mixture of two or more gases (e.g., R-410A).
- Natural Gases : Natural gases such as carbon dioxide (R-744) and ammonia (R-717) are named according to their chemical formulas.
4. Gases Commonly Used in Turkey and Their Meanings
The naming of gases used in air conditioning and cooling systems in Türkiye is consistent with global standards. For example:
- R-410A : It is frequently preferred in home and office air conditioners.
- R-32 : It is becoming increasingly common in new generation environmentally friendly systems.
- R-134a : Still popular in the automotive sector, but is gradually being replaced by alternatives such as R-1234yf.
Conclusion
The names of refrigerant gases provide important clues about their chemical structures and properties. This naming system allows for the selection of the right gas and a better understanding of its environmental impacts. It is crucial for both users and industry professionals to understand this system to make the right choices.