9. REFRIGERANT R407C :
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING UNIT
9-1. Characteristics of new refrigerant R407C
9-1-1. What is new refrigerant R407C
R407C is a new refrigerant that contains three types of non-azeotropy-type mixed refrigerant which does
not adversely affect the Earth's ozone layer. Its refrigeration capacity and energy efficiency are about the
same level as the conventional refrigerant R22
9-1-2. Components (mixing proportions)
HFC32 (23%) / HFC125 (25%) / HFC134a (52%)
9-1-3. Characteristics
●
Less toxic, more chemically stable refrigerant.
●
Composition of refrigerant R407C changes whether it is in gaseous phase or liquid phase. Thus, when there is a
refrigerant leak the basic performance of the air conditioner may be degraded because of a change in
composition of the remaining refrigerant.
Therefore, do not add new refrigerant. Instead, recover the
remaining refrigerant with the refrigerant recovery unit. Then, after evacuation, totally recharge the specified
amount of refrigerant with the new refrigerant at its normal mixed composition state (liquid phase).
●
When refrigerant R407C is used, the composition will differ depending on whether it is in gaseous or liquid
phase, and the basic performance of the air conditioner will be degraded if it is charged while the refrigerant is in
gaseous state.
Thus, always charge the refrigerant while it is in the liquid phase.
●
Ether-type oil is used for the compressor oil for R407C-type units, which is
different from the mineral oil used for R22. Thus more attention to moisture
prevention and faster replacement work compared with conventional models are
required.
9-2. Checklist before servicing
●
Tubing precautions
Refrigerant R407C is more easily affected by dust or moisture compared with R22, thus be sure to temporarily
cover the ends of the tubing with caps or tape prior to installation.
●
No addition of compressor oil for R407C
No additional charge of compressor oil is permitted.
●
No use of refrigerant other than R407C
Never use a refrigerant other than R407C.
●
If refrigerant R407C is exposed to fire
Through welding, etc., toxic gas may be released when R407C refrigerant is exposed to fire. Therefore, be sure
to provide ample ventilation during installation work.
●
Caution in case of R407C leak
Check for possible leak points with the special leak detector for R407C. If a leak occurs inside the room,
immediately provide thorough ventilation.
CAUTION
42
