HC R290 refrigerant issues
Basics
HC R-290 (propane) is an odourless and colourless gas of the group of hydro-
carbons. HC R-290 is heavier than air and at high concentrations can cause
narcotic effects and eventually asphyxiation.
R-290 is highly flammable within the range of 2.1% and 9.5% by volume, or 38
g/m
3
to 170 g/m
3
in air. The auto-ignition temperature is about 470°C.
Since R-290 is an odourless and colourless gas, it is difficult to perceive that it is
present (as with most other refrigerants).
Propane is often used as a fuel, such as for heating or barbecues. However, for
use on refrigeration systems, fuel-grade propane is not suitable since it contains
high levels of impurities, which would damage the refrigeration system and may
not provide the desired refrigerating capacity or efficiency.
The structural formula of HC R-290 (propane)
Important refrigerant properties and parameters:
HC R-290 refrig-
erant has a high
grade of purity.
Propane as a
cooking gas is
not useful for
refrigeration
purpose!
Molecular formula C
3
H
8
Melting point [°C] -188
Boiling point under atmospheric pressure [°C] -42
Molar mass [g mol
-1
] 44.10
Critical temperature [°C] 96.8
Critical pressure [bar] 42
Practical limit [g/m
3
] 8
Lower flammability level LFL [g/m
3
] 38
Lower flammability level LFL [%] 2.1
Upper flammability level UFL [g/m
3
] 171
Upper flammability level UFL [%] 9.5
Ignition temperature [°C]
470
Read More!
Guidlines for the
safe use of
hydrocarbon
refrigerants
GIZ—PROKLIMA
http://www.giz.de/
proklima
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