Frequently Asked Questions

1- Will mixing RS-44b with R22 (or refrigerants in general) harm the system?

Inadvertently mixing RS-44b with R22 is not harmful to the system.  This has been verified in Europe, where RS-44b has been on the market for 15 years.  If a service technician unwittingly mixes RS-44b, RS-53, RS-51, or RS-20 refrigerants with the original refrigerant it replaces, there will be no harm to the system or its components.  However, in the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) strictly prohibits deliberately mixing refrigerants and will assess fines and penalties to address the violation.  Furthermore, the Pressure/Temperature (P/T) Chart for either refrigerant will also become inaccurate.

2- What are the implications of the new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rulemaking on Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) allocation holders in the US, and how will it impact the availability and pricing of HFC refrigerants?

Starting January 2022, all U.S. manufacturers, importers, and allocation holders will be subject to strict HFC refrigerant supply restrictions, per the new EPA rules. Ongoing restrictions will impose allocation limits that must be strictly adhered to, without any exceptions. The production and importation of refrigerants in the U.S. will be limited, leading to shortages in 2022. Refrigerant Prices are forecasted to rise due to a 30% lower allocation by the EPA from 2024 to 2029.

3- How do the new RS refrigerants differ from traditional Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) refrigerants like R410a and R404a in terms of their environmental impact and resilience to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) HFC allocation restrictions?

All RS refrigerants are developed and formulated to replace high Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants in existing systems (R22, R32, R410A, R134A, R404A, R507). ComStar’s new RS refrigerants are blends of Hydrofluorocarbons/Hydrofluro-olefins HFC/HFO, so they will be less affected by the EPA’s HFC allocation restrictions. Refrigerants with a lower GWP can be imported or produced more efficiently compared to high-GWP HFC refrigerants, allowing ComStar to supply customers more adeptly.

RS-53 (470A)

Click for Answers.

  1. What is RS-53 (R470A)?
  2. Yes, but what does RS-53 (R470A) contain?
  3. Can RS-53 (R470A) be used with the same lubricant when replacing R41OA?
  4. Is RS-53 (R470A) non-flammable and non-toxic?
  5. Is RS-53 (R470A) approved by compressor manufacturers?
  6. Does RS-53 (R470A) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?
  7. Is RS-53 (R470A) on the SNAP (Significant New Alternative Policy program) list in the USA?
  8. Does RS-53 (R470A) have an ASI–IRAE number & what is its classification?
  9. How does the pressure rating ofRS-53 (R470A) compare with R410A?
  10. How does the capacity ofRS-53 (R470A) compare to R410A?
  11. How does the discharge temperature of RS-53 (R470A) compare to R410A? The predicted discharge temperature is too high.
  12. What are the flammability characteristics ofRS-53 (R470A)?
  13. What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion of RS-53 (R470A)?
  14. Are there any special precautions with RS-53 (R470A)?
  15. Is RS-53 (R470A) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R410A?
  16. Can RS-53 (R470A) be recovered and recycled?
  17. What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R410A to RS-53 (R470A)?
  18. How does RS-53 (R470A) compare in price with R410A?
  19. What is the main advantage ofRS-53 (R470A)?
  20. Is RS-53 (R470A) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R410A?
  21. What is the specification for RS-53 (R470A)?
  22. What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-53 (R470A)?
  23. What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-53 (R470A)?
  24. What would be the effect of a large release of RS-53 (R470A)?
  25. Is RS-53 (R470A) suitable for use with new equipment?

RS-20 (480A)

Click for Answers.

  1. What is RS-20 (R480A)?
  2. Yes, but what does RS-20 (R480A) contain?
  3. Can RS-20 (R480A) be used with the same lubricant when replacing R134a?
  4. Is RS-20 (R480A) non-flammable and non-toxic?
  5. Is RS-20 (R480A) approved by compressor manufacturers?
  6. Does RS-20 (R480A) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?
  7. Is RS-20 (R480A) on the SNAP (Significant New Alternative Policy program) list in the USA?
  8. Does RS-20 (R480A) have an ASHRAE number & what is its classification?
  9. How does the pressure rating of RS-20 (R480A) compare with R134a?
  10. How does the capacity of RS-20 (R480A) compare to R134a?
  11. How does the discharge temperature of RS-20 (R480A) compare to R134a?
  12. What are the flammability characteristics of RS-20 (R480A)?
  13. What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion of RS-20 (R480A)?
  14. Are there any special precautions with RS-20 (R480A)?
  15. Is RS-20 (R480A) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R134a?
  16. Can RS-20 (R480A) be recovered and recycled?
  17. What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R134a to RS-20 (R480A)?
  18. In systems operating with R134a, what if any adjustments need to be made to electronic expansion valves when using RS-20 (R480A)?
  19. How does RS-20 (R480A) compare in price with R134a?
  21. Is RS-20 (R480A) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R134a?
  22. What is the specification for RS-20 (R480A)?
  23. What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-20 (R480A)?
  24. What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-20 (R480A)?
  25. What would be the effect of a large release of RS-20 (R480A)?
  26. Is RS-20 (R480A)  suitable for use with new equipment?

RS-51 (470B)

Click for Answers.

  1. What is RS-51 (R470B)?
  2. What is the Global Warming Potential of RS-51 (R470B) ?
  3. Yes, but what does RS-51 (R470B) contain?
  4. Does RS-51 (R470B) have an ASHRAE number & what is its classification?
  5. Is RS-51 (R470B) subject to a phase out programme under any regulations as is the case with CFCs and HCFCs?
  6. Can RS-51 (R470B) be used with the same lubricant when replacing R404A and R507?
  7. Is RS-51 (R470B) non-flammable and non-toxic?
  8. Is RS-51 (R470B) approved by compressor manufacturers?
  9. What trials have been can-ied out on RS-51 (R470B) and what are the results?
  10. Does RS-51 (R470B) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?
  11. Does the RS-51 (R470B) disposable cylinder have a dip tube?
  12. How does the pressure rating of RS-51 (R470B) compare with R404A and R507?
  13. How does the capacity of RS-51 (R470B) compare to R404A and R507?
  14. How does the temperature rating of RS-51 (R470B) compare to R404A and R507?
  15. What are the flammability characteristics of RS-51 (R470B) ?
  16. What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion of RS-51 (R470B) ?
  17. Are there any special precautions with RS-51 (R470B)?
  18. Is RS-51 (R470B) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R404A and R507?
  19. Can RS-51 (R470B) be recovered and recycled?
  20. What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R404A or R507 to RS-51 (R470B)?
  21. How does RS-51 (R470B) compare in price with R404A and R507?
  22. What is the main advantage of RS-51 (R470B) ?
  23. Is RS-51 (R470B) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R404A and R507?
  24. What is the specification for RS-51 (R470B) ?
  25. What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-51 (R470B) ?
  26. What is the flash point, flammability explosion limits and auto-ignition temperature for RS-51 (R470B) ?
  27. What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-51 (R470B) ?
  28. What would be the effect of a large release of RS-51 (R470B) ?
  29. Is RS-51 (R470B) available in both returnable and disposable cylinders?
  30. Is RS-51 (R470B) suitable for use with new equipment?
  31. Why is the discharge temperature lower than that predicted by computer models such as Refprop?
  32. Does RS-51 (R470B) have a temperature glide?

RS-44b (R453A) Low GWP R22 Replacement

Click for Answers.

  1. What is RS-44b (R453A)?
  2. Yes, but what does RS-44b (R453A) contain?
  3. Is RS-44b (R453A) subject to a phase out programme under any regulations as is the case with CFCs and HCFCs?
  4. Can RS-44b (R453A) be used with mineral and alkylbenzene lubricants?
  5. What is the temperature glide of RS-44b (R453A)?
  6. Is RS-44b (R453A) non flammable and non toxic?
  7. Is RS-44b (R453A) approved by compressor manufacturers?
  8. What is the compression ratio of RS-44b (R453A)?
  9. Can RS-44b (R453A) be used to top up a system containing R22?
  10. Is RS-44b (R453A) as efficient as R22?
  11. What trials have been carried out on RS-44b (R453A) and what are the results?
  12. Does RS-44b (R453A) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?
  13. Does the RS-44b (R453A) disposable cylinder have a dip tube?
  14. Is RS-44b (R453A) on the SNAP (Significant New Alternative Policy programme) list in the USA?
  15. Has RS-44b (R453A) got an ASHRAE number?
  16. How does the pressure rating of RS-44b (R453A) compare with R22?
  17. How does the capacity of RS-44b (R453A) compare to R22?
  18. How does the temperature rating of RS-44b (R453A) compare to R22?
  19. What are the flammability characteristics ofRS-44b (R453A)?
  20. What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion of RS-44b (R453A)?
  21. Are there any special precautions with RS-44b (R453A)?
  22. Is RS-44b (R453A) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R22?
  23. Can RS-44b (R453A) be recovered and recycled?
  24. What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R22 to RS-44b (R453A)?
  25. How does RS-44b (R453A) compare in price with R407C and other alternatives?
  26. What is the main advantage ofRS-44b (R453A)?
  27. Is RS-44b (R453A) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R22?
  28. How does the Coefficient of Performance (COP) of RS-44b (R453A) compare with R22?
  29. What is the specification for RS-44b (R453A)?
  30. What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-44b (R453A)?
  31. What is the flash point, flammability explosion limits and auto-ignition temperature for RS-44b (R453A)?
  32. What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-44b (R453A)?
  33. What would be the effect of a large release of RS-44b (R453A)?
  34. Is RS-44b (R453A) available in both returnable and disposable cylinders:
  35. Can RS-44b (R453A) be used in systems designed to replace R22 and initially charged with a hydrocarbon?
  36. Can RS-44b (R453A) be added to systems containing R22 without materially affecting the perfon•nance of the whole system?

RS-53 (R470A)

  1. Q: What is RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: RS-53 (R470A) is a non-ozone depleting low GWP replacement for R41OA.

  2. Q: Yes, but what does RS-53 (R470A) contain?

    A: RS-53 (R470A) is a blend of R125, C02, R32, R227ea, RI34a, R1234ze.

  3. Q: Can RS-53 (R470A) be used with the same lubricant when replacing R41OA?

    A: Yes. RS-53 (R470A) is fully compatible with synthetic lubricants such as polyol ester (POE) which are commonly used with R41OA.

  4. Q: Is RS-53 (R470A) non-flammable and non-toxic?

    A: RS-53 (R470A) is both non-flammable and non-toxic.

  5. Q: Is RS-53 (R470A) approved by compressor manufacturers?

    A: The individual components which comprise RS-53 (R470A) are widely used in compressors produced by major manufacturers.

  6. Q: Does RS-53 (R470A) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?

    A: Because RS-53 (R470A) is a blend, the recommendation is to charge it into the system in the liquid form. However, if the entire contents of the cylinder are being charged, then vapor charging is acceptable.

  7. Q: Is RS-53 (R470A) on the SNAP (Significant New Alternative Policy program) list in the USA?

    A: An application will be made to EPA to be listed on SNAP.

  8. Q: Does RS-53 (R470A) have an ASI–IRAE number & what is its classification?

    A: Yes, ASHRAE number for RS-53 (R470A) is R470A and has a safety classification of Al, i.e. low toxicity & non-flammable under all conditions of fractionation.

  9. Q: How does the pressure rating ofRS-53 (R470A) compare with R410A?

    A: The discharge pressure ofRS-53 (R470A) is similar to R410A.

  10. Q: How does the capacity ofRS-53 (R470A) compare to R410A?

    A: The capacity ofRS-53 (R470A) is similar to R410A.

  11. Q: How does the discharge temperature of RS-53 (R470A) compare to R410A? The predicted discharge temperature is too high.

    A: The discharge temperature of RS-53 (R470A) is similar to R410A.

  12. Q: What are the flammability characteristics of RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: RS-53 (R470A) is non-flammable as defined in the ASHRAE EN 681-09 test, and hence does not have a flash point or explosion limits. The auto-ignition temperature ofRS-53 (R470A) has not been determined but is expected to be greater than 7500C.

  13. Q: What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion of RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: The decomposition products resulting from subjecting RS-53 (R470A) to a high temperature source are similar to those when R410A is exposed to fire.. The decomposition products in each case are irritating and toxic, and breathing apparatus should be worn where a possibility to exposure exists.

  14. Q: Are there any special precautions with RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: There are no specific precautions which must be taken with RS-53 (R470A). As with all refrigerants, common sense and good housekeeping is always recommended.

  15. Q: Is RS-53 (R470A) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R410A?

    A: Yes. RS-53 (R470A) is compatible with all materials commonly used in systems that were designed and charged with R41OA. Magnesium and zinc alloys should be avoided.

  16. Q: Can RS-53 (R470A) be recovered and recycled?

    A: Yes. RS-53 (R470A) can be recovered and re-used after a cleaning process.

  17. Q: What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R410A to RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: Use the same type of lubricant which will be polyol-ester, replace the filter/drier and charge the same quantity ofRS-53 (R470A) as manufacturer’s recommended charge for R41OA after fully evacuating.

  18. Q: How does RS-53 (R470A) compare in price with R410A?

    A: RS-53 (R470A) is competitive in price with R410A.

  19. Q: What is the main advantage of RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: RS-53 (R470A) has a considerably lower Global Warming Potential less than one half that of R410A.

  20. Q: Is RS-53 (R470A) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R410A?

    A: Yes, there is no necessity change any seals, hoses etc., when replacing R410A and with RS-53 (R470A).

  21. Q: What is the specification for RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: RS-53 (R470A) complies with the refrigerant specification AHRI 700 for fluorocarbon refrigerants.

  22. Q: What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: As is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants, high exposure to RS-53 (R470A) may produce anesthetic effects. Very high exposures may cause an abnormal heart rhythm and prove suddenly fatal as is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants.

  23. Q: What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: Leak detectors used with HFCs are suitable for use with RS-53 (R470A).

  24. Q: What would be the effect of a large release of RS-53 (R470A)?

    A: In common with other refrigerants of this type, the area should be immediately evacuated. The vapor may concentrate at floor level and in poorly ventilated areas may be slow to disperse. Forced ventilation should be provided before entering such areas.

  25. Q: Is RS-53 (R470A) suitable for use with new equipment?

    A: Yes. RS-53 (R470A) can be used in new equipment & has the major advantage of being nonflammable.

RS-20 (R480A)

  1. Q: What is RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: RS-20 (R480A) is a non-ozone depleting low GWP replacement for R134a.

  2. Q: Yes, but what does RS-20 (R480A) contain?

    A: RS-20 (R480A) is a blend of carbon dioxide, R1234ze & R227ea

  3. Q: Can RS-20 (R480A) be used with the same lubricant when replacing R134a?

    A: Yes. RS-20 (R480A) is fully compatible with synthetic lubricants such as polyol ester (POE) and Polyalkylene Glycol. PAG oil is commonly used in mobile air conditioning.

  4. Q: Is RS-20 (R480A) non-flammable and non-toxic?

    A: RS-20 (R480A) is both non-flammable and non-toxic.

  5. Q: Is RS-20 (R480A) approved by compressor manufacturers?

    A: The individual components which comprise RS-20 (R480A) are widely used in compressors produced by major manufacturers.

  6. Q: Does RS-20 (R480A) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?

    A: Because RS-20 (R480A) is a blend, the recommendation is to charge it into the system in the liquid form. However, if the entire contents of the cylinder are being charged, then vapor charging is acceptable.

  7. Q: Is RS-20 (R480A) on the SNAP (Significant New Alternative Policy program) list in the USA?

    A: An application has been be made to EPA to be listed on SNAP.

  8. Q: Does RS-20 (R480A) have an ASHRAE number & what is its classification?

    A: RS-20 (R480A) has been given an ASHRAE number of R480A and awarded a safety classification of A1, i.e. low toxicity & non-flammable under all conditions of fractionation.

  9. Q: How does the pressure rating of RS-20 (R480A) compare with R134a?

    A: The discharge pressure of RS-20 (R480A) is similar to R134a.

  10. Q: How does the capacity of RS-20 (R480A) compare to R134a?

    A: The capacity of RS-20 (R480A) is similar to R134a.

  11. Q: How does the discharge temperature of RS-20 (R480A) compare to R134a?

    A: The discharge temperature of RS-20 (R480A) is similar to R134a.

  12. Q: What are the flammability characteristics of RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: RS-20 (R480A) is non-flammable as defined in the ASHRAE EN 681-09 test, and hence does not have a flash point or explosion limits.

  13. Q: What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion of RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: The decomposition products resulting from subjecting RS-20 (R480A) to a high temperature source are similar to those when R134aA are exposed to fire. The decomposition products in each case are irritating and toxic, and breathing apparatus should be worn where a possibility to exposure exists.

  14. Q: Are there any special precautions with RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: There are no specific precautions which must be taken with RS-20 (R480A). As with all refrigerants, common sense and good housekeeping is always recommended.

  15. Q: Is RS-20 (R480A) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R134a?

    A: Yes. RS-20 (R480A) is compatible with all materials commonly used in systems that were designed and charged with R134a. Magnesium and zinc alloys should be avoided.

  16. Q: Can RS-20 (R480A) be recovered and recycled?

    A: Yes. RS-20 (R480A) can be recovered and re-used after a cleaning process

  17. Q: What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R134a to RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: Use the same type of lubricant which will be Polyalkylene Glycol (particularly in mobile air conditioning) or polyolester, replace the filter/drier. Charge the system with similar amount as for R134a.

  18. Q: In systems operating with R134a, what if any adjustments need to be made to electronic expansion valves when using RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: There is no need to make any adjustment to the electronic expansive device operating with R134a

  19. Q: How does RS-20 (R480A) compare in price with R134a?

    A: RS-20 (R480A) is competitive in price with R134a.

  20. Q: In systems operating with R134a, what if any adjustments need to be made to manual TXV or electronic expansion valves when using RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: There is no need to make any adjustment to a manual or electronic expansive device operating with R134a. This applied to both automotive and commercial A/C systems.

  21. Q: Is RS-20 (R480A) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R134a?

    A: Yes, there is no necessity change any seals, hoses etc when replacing R134a and with RS20 (R480A).

  22. Q: What is the specification for RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: RS-20 (R480A) complies with the refrigerant specification AHRI 700 for fluorocarbon refrigerants.

  23. Q: What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: As is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants, high exposure to RS-20 (R480A) may produce anaesthetic effects. Very high exposures may cause an abnormal heart rhythm and prove suddenly fatal as is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants.

  24. Q: What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: Leak detectors used with HFCs are suitable for use with RS-20 (R480A).

  25. Q: What would be the effect of a large release of RS-20 (R480A)?

    A: In common with other refrigerants of this type, the area should be immediately evacuated. The vapor may concentrate at floor level and in poorly ventilated areas may be slow to disperse. Forced ventilation should be provided before entering such areas.

  26. Q: Is RS-20 (R480A) suitable for use with new equipment?

    A: Yes. RS-20 (R480A) can be used in new equipment & has the major advantage of being nonflammable.

RS-51 (R470B)

  1. Q: What is RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) is a non-ozone depleting, very low GWP replacement for R404A and R507.

  2. Q: What is the Global Warming Potential of RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: The GWP of RS-51 (R470B) is 717.

  3. Q: Yes, but what does RS-51 (R470B) contain?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) is a blend ofR125, C02, R1234ze, R227ea, R32, R134a.

  4. Q: Does RS-51 (R470B) have an ASHRAE number & what is its classification?

    A: Yes, ASHRAE number for RS-51 (R470B) is R470B and has a safety classification of Al, i.e. low toxicity & non-flammable under all conditions of fractionation.

  5. Q: Is RS-51 (R470B) subject to a phase out program under any regulations as is the case with CFCs and HCFCs?

    A: No. None of the components of RS-51 (R470B) is subject to a phase out schedule under the Montreal Protocol or any regulations.

  6. Q: Can RS-51 (R470B) be used with the same lubricant when replacing R404A and R507?

    A: Yes. RS-51 (R470B) is fully compatible with synthetic lubricants such as polyol ester (POE) which are commonly used with R404A and R507.

  7. 7.Q: Is RS-51 (R470B) non-flammable and non-toxic?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) is both non-flammable and non-toxic.

  8. Q: Is RS-51 (R470B) approved by compressor manufacturers?

    A: The individual components which comprise RS-51 (R470B) are widely used in compressors produced by major manufacturers.

  9. Q: What trials have been carried out on RS-51 (R470B) and what are the results?

    A: Trials have been carried out which show that RS-51 (R470B) has a similar performance to R404A including energy efficiency and cooling capacity.

  10. Q: Does RS-51 (R470B) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?

    A: Because RS-51 (R470B) is a blend, the recommendation is to charge it into the system in the liquid form. However, if the entire contents of the cylinder are being charged, then vapor charging is acceptable.

  11. Q: Does the RS-51 (R470B) disposable cylinder have a dip tube?

    A: No. The disposable should be inverted to discharge RS-51 (R470B) in the liquid form.

  12. Q: How does the pressure rating of RS-51 (R470B) compare with R404A and R507?

    A: Similar to R404A and R507

  13. Q: How does the capacity of RS-51 (R470B) compare to R404A and R507?

    A: Similar to R404A and R507.

  14. Q: How does the temperature rating of RS-51 (R470B) compare to R404A and R507?

    A: The discharge temperature of RS-51 (R470B) is similar to R404A.

  15. Q: What are the flammability characteristics of RS-51 (R470B) ?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) is non-flammable at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, and has the same classification as R22, RI 34a, R404A, R409A (FX56), R507 (AZ-SO) etc.

  16. Q: What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion of RS-51 (R470B) ?

    A: The decomposition products resulting from subjecting RS-51 (R470B) to a high temperature source are similar to those when R404A and R507 are exposed to fire conditions. The decomposition products in each case are irritating and toxic, and breathing apparatus should be worn where a possibility to exposure exists.

  17. Q: Are there any special precautions with RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: There are no specific precautions which must be taken with RS-51 (R470B). As with all refrigerants, common sense and good housekeeping is always recommended.

  18. Q: Is RS-51 (R470B) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R404A and R507?

    A: Yes. RS-51 (R470B) is compatible with all materials commonly used in systems that were designed and charged with R404A and R507. Magnesium and zinc alloys should be avoided.

  19. Q: Can RS-51 (R470B) be recovered and recycled?

    A: Yes. RS-51 (R470B) can be recovered and re-used after a cleaning process such as reclamation.

  20. Q: What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R404A or R507 to RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: Use the same type of lubricant which will be polyolester, replace the filter/drier and charge 10% less quantity of RS-51 (R470B) as the original charge for R404A or R507 after fully evacuating. For optimum performance it is recommended to replace the expansion device with a valve commonly used with RI34a.

  21. Q: How does RS-51 (R470B) compare in price with R404A and R507?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) is competitive in price with R404A and R507.

  22. Q: What is the main advantage of RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) has a Global Warming Potential which is less than a quarter that of R404A and R507 which results in a lower carbon footprint. RS-51 (R470B) also has a GWP which is 45% less than R448A or R449A.

  23. Q: Is RS-51 (R470B) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R404A and R507?

    A: Yes, there is no necessity change any seals, hoses etc when replacing R404A and R507 with RS-51 (R470B).

  24. Q: What is the specification for RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) complies with the refrigerant specification AHI 700 for fluorocarbon refrigerants.

  25. Q: What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: As is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants, high exposure to RS-51 (R470B) may produce anaesthetic effects. Very high exposures may cause an abnormal heart rhythm and prove suddenly fatal as is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants.

  26. Q: What is the flash point, flammability explosion limits and auto-ignition temperature for RS-51 (R470B)?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) is non-flammable as defined in the ASHRAE EN 681-09 test, and hence does not have a flash point or explosion limits. The auto-ignition temperature of RS-51 (R470B) has not been determined but is expected to be greater than 7500C.

  27. Q: What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-51 (R470B) ?

    A: Leak detectors used with HFCs are suitable for use with RS-51 (R470B).

  28. Q: What would be the effect of a large release of RS-51 (R470B) ?

    A: In common with other refrigerants of this type, the area should be immediately evacuated. The vapor may concentrate at floor level and in poorly ventilated areas may be slow to disperse. Forced ventilation should be provided before entering such areas.

  29. Q: Is RS-51 (R470B) available in both returnable and disposable cylinders?

    A: Yes.

  30. Q: Is RS-51 (R470B) suitable for use with new equipment?

    A: RS-51 (R470B) is targeted to replace R404A and R507 in new equipment in order to take advantage of its considerably lower global warming than R404A and R507.

  31. Q: Why is the discharge temperature lower than that predicted by computer models such as Refprop?

    A: Computer models including Cycle D do not reflect the actual practical discharge temperature of RS-51 (R470B) which has been found in practice to be similar to R404A, R448A, R449A & other blends.

  32. Q: Does RS-51 (R470B) have a temperature glide?

    A: Owing to a pressure drop in the evaporator, the glide is reduced to approx. 4K.

RS-44b (R453A) Our low GWP R22 Replacement

  1. Q: What is RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) is a non ozone depleting Drop-in replacement for R22 in most applications.

  2. Q: Yes, but what does RS-44b (R453A) contain?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) is a blend of R 125, R32, R134a, R227ea, butane, & isopentane.

  3. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) subject to a phase out programme under any regulations as is the case with CFCs and HCFCs?

    A: No. None of the components of RS-44b (R453A) is subject to a phase out schedule under the Montreal protocol or any regulations.

  4. Q: Can RS-44b (R453A) be used with mineral and alkylbenzene lubricants?

    A: Yes. There is no need to change to a synthetic polyol ester (POE) oil with RS-44b (R453A) which operates satisfactorily with traditional lubricants.

  5. Q: What is the temperature glide of RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: 4.20C

  6. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) non flammable and non toxic?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) is both non flammable and non toxic.

  7. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) approved by compressor manufacturers?

    A: The individual components which comprise RS-44b (R453A) are widely used in compressors produced by major manufacturers.

  8. Q: What is the compression ratio ofRS-44b (R453A)?

    A: High compression ratios can result in increased energy expenditure and the potential for compressor damage. RS-44b (R453A) has a compression ratio which matches R22 across the range of applications where R22 is commonly found

  9. Q: Can RS-44b (R453A) be used to top up a system containing R22?

    A: it is not recommended that RS-44b (R453A) is mixed with R22. No azeotropic mixtures are formed so that there will not be higher pressures by topping up a R22 system with R22.

  10. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) as efficient as R22?

    A: Tests show that RS-44b (R453A) has a higher Coefficient of Perfonnance than R22 and henCe is considered to be more energy efficient than R22.

  11. Q: What trials have been carried out on RS-44b (R453A) and what are the results?

    A: RS-45 has shown comparable results to R22 in systems where an expansion device is present. RS-45 is particularly effective at low temperatures. The results show good oil return to the compressor.

  12. Q: Does RS-44b (R453A) need to be charged in the liquid or gaseous form?

    A: Because RS-44b (R453A) is a blend, the recommendation is to charge it into the system in the liquid fonn. However, if the entire contents of the cylinder are being charged, then vapour charging is acceptable.

  13. Q: Does the RS-44b (R453A) disposable cylinder have a dip tube?

    A: No. The disposable should be inverted to discharge RS-44b (R453A) in the liquid fonn.

  14. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) on the SNAP (Significant New Alternative Policy programme) list in the USA?

    A: Yes, RS-44b (R453A) is on EPA’s SNAP list for sale in the USA.

  15. Q: Has RS-44b (R453A) got an ASHRAE number?

    A: Yes. RS-44b (R453A) has been designated a refrigerant number ofR453A by the ASHRAE & a safety classification of Al, namely low toxicity & non flammable under all conditions of fractionation.

  16. Q: How does the pressure rating of RS-44b (R453A) compare with R22?

    A: The discharge pressure ofRS-44b (R453A) is about half a bar higher than R22.

  17. Q: How does the capacity ofRS-44b (R453A) compare to R22?

    A: The capacity ofRS-44b (R453A) matches R22 from high to low temperatures across the temperature range where R22 is commonly found.

  18. Q: How does the temperature rating ofRS-44b (R453A) compare to R22?

    A: The discharge temperatures of RS-44b (R453A) are lower than R22.

  19. Q: What are the flammability characteristics ofRS-44b (R453A)?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) is non flammable as formulated.

  20. Q: What are the decomposition products resulting from the combustion ofRS-44b (R453A)?

    A: The decomposition products resulting from subjecting RS-44b (R453A) to a high temperature source are similar to those when R22 is exposed to fire conditions. The decomposition products in each case are irritating and toxic, and breathing apparatus should be worn where a possibility to exposure exists.

  21. Q: Are there any special precautions with RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: There are no specific precautions which must be taken with RS-44b (R453A). As with all refrigerants, common sense and good housekeeping is always recommended. Because the use of hygroscopic synthetic POE lubricants are avoided with RS-44b (R453A), scrupulous attention to preventing moisture contamination is not necessary, although the ingress of moisture should be avoided at all times.

  22. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) compatible with refrigeration and air conditioning systems designed for R22?

    A: Yes. RS-44b (R453A) is compatible with all materials commonly used in systems that were designed and charged with R22. As in the case ofR22, magnesium and zinc alloys should be avoided.

  23. Q: Can RS-44b (R453A) be recovered and recycled?

    A: Yes. RS-44b (R453A) can be recovered and re-used after a cleaning process such as reclamation.

  24. Q: What technical guidance do you advise when changing from R22 to RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: The procedure for converting from R22 to RS-44b (R453A) is straightfonvard. Use the same type of lubricant, replace the filter/drier and charge the same quantity of RS-44b (R453A) as the original R22 charge after fully evacuating.

  25. Q: How does RS-44b (R453A) compare in price with R407C and other alternatives?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) is competitive in price with other R22 alternatives.

  26. Q: What is the main advantage ofRS-44b (R453A)?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) has a lower GWP than most replacements for R22. RS-44b (R453A) is a suitable replacement for R22 across the range of temperatures where R22 is commonly found at high and low temperatures. RS-44b (R453A) can be used to replace R22 without the need to change the original mineral oil in the system. There is, therefore, no necessity to retrofit to a synthetic lubricant such as POE.

  27. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) compatible with hoses, seals, gaskets and O-rings commonly used with R22?

    A: Yes. Because the original mineral oil is being used and not a synthetic lubricant, elastomers and plastics used with R22 are compatible with RS-44b (R453A).

  28. Q: How does the Coefficient of Performance (COP) of RS-44b (R453A) compare with R22?

    A: Tests show that RS-44b (R453A) provides a higher COP than R22 depending upon the application and equipment.

  29. Q: What is the specification for RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) complies with the refrigerant specification AHRI 700 — 2014 for fluorocarbon refrigerants.

  30. Q: What is the effect of high exposure by inhalation of RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: As is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants, high exposure to RS-44b (R453A) may produce anaesthetic effects. Very high exposures may cause an abnormal heart rhythm and prove suddenly fatal as is the case with all CFC, HCFC and HFC based refrigerants.

  31. Q: What is the flash point, flammability explosion limits and auto-ignition temperature for RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) is non flammable as formulated and does not have a flash point or explosion limits. The auto-ignition temperature of RS-44b (R453A) has not been determined but is expected to be greater than 7500C.

  32. Q: What types of leak detectors should be used with RS-44b (R453A)?

    A: Leak detectors used with HFCs are suitable for use with RS-44b (R453A).

  33. Q: What would be the effect of a large release ofRS-44b (R453A)?

    A: In common with other refrigerants of this type, the area should be immediately evacuated. The vapour may concentrate at floor level and in poorly ventilated areas may be slow to disperse. Forced ventilation should be provided before entering such areas.

  34. Q: Is RS-44b (R453A) available in both returnable and disposable cylinders:

    A: Yes.

  35. Q: Can RS-44b (R453A) be used in systems designed to replace R22 and initially charged with a hydrocarbon?

    A: Although no development work has been can•ied out on hydrocarbon systems designed to replace R22, we believe that RS-44b (R453A) would be suitable but an increased refrigerant charge would be required.

  36. Q: Can RS-44b (R453A) be added to systems containing R22 without materially affecting the perfon•nance of the whole system?

    A: RS-44b (R453A) does not form an azeofropic mixture with R22 so that adding RS-44b (R453A) to R22 in a system will not generate any higher pressures.