What is R600A Refrigerant?
For the longest time, chlorofluorocarbons, hydrochlorofluorocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons have been used as refrigerants. Research, however, has shown that CFC, HCFCs, and HFCs are harmful to the environment. One of the biggest concerns has been the depletion of the ozone layer. Strides have been made (and are still continuing) to ensure that all refrigerants are safe, efficient, and above all, green. Most harmful refrigerants are being phased out and being replaced with eco-friendly refrigerants like R6000A.
What is R600A refrigerant?
R600A is a refrigerant grade Iso-Butane that is available as a natural refrigerant. The refrigerant is used in a wide array of applications and is the perfect replacement for harmful refrigerants, such as R12, R22 and other CFCs and HCFCs.
R600A is gaining popularity over the years, given its low Global Warming Potential (GWP). As a result, it has become the preferred refrigerant for light commercial and domestic refrigeration units such as freezers, standalone display units, fridges, and drink dispensers. The refrigerant is non-toxic, has zero ODP, and standouts for its exceptional thermodynamics performance.
Properties of R600A
Here are some of the top properties of R600A refrigerant.
- R600A is friendly to the environment – doesn’t cause the greenhouse effect
- It has a low power consumption
- The refrigerant is compatible with different lubricants
- Its load temperature speed is low
- The cooling performance of R600A is very strong
Uses of R600A
As highlighted earlier, R600A has become the refrigerant of choice because of its eco-friendly properties. Let’s look at some of the applications of this refrigerant.
- The refrigerant is used in geothermal power generation
- R600A is ideal for industrial refrigeration
- It's applicable in beverage dispensers
- It's used in dehumidifiers
- R600A can be used in plug-ins and vending machines
- They can also be used as feedstock in the petrochemical industry
- It's used in aerosol sprays
R134a Vs. R600a
How does R600A compare to R134A refrigerant?
R134A is soluble in water. If there is water present, it will produce acid, carbon monoxide, or carbon dioxide under the action of lubricating oil, causing metal corrosion. The refrigerant requires cleaning and drying of the system. R600A, on the other hand, is slightly soluble in water and is compatible with most metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and carbon steel.
R134A is non-flammable and has low toxicity – it is grouped in safety category A1. R600A is flammable and can cause weak anesthesia and irritation. When mixed with air, it forms a BaoZa mixture, and when exposed to oxidants, it can react violently. R134A refrigerant has a greenhouse effect, while R600A has no greenhouse effect. Compared to 134A, R600A has a lower condensing pressure, evaporation pressure, and exhaust temperature.
Is R600A Safe?
So, how safe is R600A refrigerant? For starters, you must handle the refrigerant with absolute care, and its transportation and packing must be done according to the set guidelines. In addition, R600A is flammable, which means that it should be kept away from naked flames. You must also wear a mask when you handle R600A – inhaling the gas is not healthy.