In: Chemistry
What are the differences between a CFC, HCFC, and an HFC? (Note: you should include more than their chemical make-up in your answer.)
Hi,
All the current refrigerants are classified in these three categories.
CFC refrigerants |
HCFC refrigerants |
HFC refrigerants |
The basic composition is Carbon, Fluorine, Oxygen |
The basic composition is Hydrogen, Carbon, Fluorine, Oxygen |
The basic composition is Hydrogen, Fluorine, Oxygen |
The CFC refrigerant is now totally banned from use or production within all countries covered by the Montreal Protocol |
The HCFC gases are to be banned from Virgin use from Jan 2010. The general phase out shall be complete by 2015 unless the dates are brought forward. |
The HFC gases are used extensively in everyday RAC systems. There is no current ban upon these gases but a responsible use and equipment inspection are mandatory under the "F gas" regulations. |
The CFC refrigerants such as the once popular R12 has the highest ozone depleting rating (1) and is also a green house gas |
The HCFC refrigerants such as the popular R22 has a potential to damage ozone (rating 0.05) and is also a green house gas |
The HFC refrigerants have no ozone depletion potential but do act as a green house gas. |
It is unlikely that many systems exist in operation with this refrigerant |
There are still many systems utilizing these refrigerants |
They are the currently used refrigerants. |