The document discusses safety precautions for handling hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. It outlines key characteristics of HFCs like being heavier than air and odorless. It emphasizes storing HFC cylinders in dry, well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, and not overfilling cylinders beyond 75% capacity. The document also notes that polyolester (POE) oils used with HFCs can cause skin irritation, so gloves should be worn when handling refrigerant oils and components.
The document discusses safety precautions for handling hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. It outlines key characteristics of HFCs like being heavier than air and odorless. It emphasizes storing HFC cylinders in dry, well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, and not overfilling cylinders beyond 75% capacity. The document also notes that polyolester (POE) oils used with HFCs can cause skin irritation, so gloves should be worn when handling refrigerant oils and components.
The document discusses safety precautions for handling hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. It outlines key characteristics of HFCs like being heavier than air and odorless. It emphasizes storing HFC cylinders in dry, well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, and not overfilling cylinders beyond 75% capacity. The document also notes that polyolester (POE) oils used with HFCs can cause skin irritation, so gloves should be worn when handling refrigerant oils and components.
The document discusses safety precautions for handling hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. It outlines key characteristics of HFCs like being heavier than air and odorless. It emphasizes storing HFC cylinders in dry, well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, and not overfilling cylinders beyond 75% capacity. The document also notes that polyolester (POE) oils used with HFCs can cause skin irritation, so gloves should be worn when handling refrigerant oils and components.
Handling of HFCs Refrigerants Training Material Reference
Handling of HFCs refrigerants – 2012.ppt
Target Group
Trainers and Technicians
Duration of the Session
20 minutes
Purpose of the Session
To make the participants aware of critical characteristics of HFC based refrigerants, precautions
to be taken for handling and storage of HFC cylinders, CANS and general safety issues.
Terminal Performance Objectives
At the end of the session, the participants should know:
(a) Important characteristics of HFCs
(b) General safety issues.
(c) Precautions to be taken for handling and storage of HFC cylinders
(d) Do not overfill cylinders or change valves.
(e) Handling related issues arising out of the usage of Polyester oils.
Key Message being delivered through this Session
With increased usage of alternative refrigerants, particularly HFCs and HFC based blends
in the forthcoming period, there will be a growing need to handle and store cylinders filled
with HFCs and HFC based blends. Along with the HFCs and HFC based blends, the PoE
oil handling will also increase. Proper safety precautions must be taken to ensure that no
mishaps occur due to faulty handling or storage of the refrigerant and lubricant.
Tools & Equipments (if any) required for the session
None. 3 Handling of HFCs Refrigerants Handling of HFCs and HFC based blends
This is the title slide and discussion can be made on pure HFCs like R134a and blends like R407C, R410A, R404A to start with this slide.
HFC Handling Precautions
Following points need to be emphasized for safe handling of HFCs
a) HFCs are heavier than air, so it displace air and there is no smell in HFCs. b) HFCs get collected in lower portions like in the bottom of the appliances (Chest Coolers) and basement of the building trenches, etc. c) HFCs do not support life; one may suffocate if high concentration of HFCs is inhaled. Storage of Cylinder / Can
HFC cylinders should be stored in dry, well ventilated areas, out of direct sunlight. Make sure there are no sources of direct heat near the storage. It must be well explained here that no flame or torch must be ignited near to the cylinder as it is shown in picture. The best part is to work in a well ventilated area.
Cylinder Valve
Never modify the cylinder and cylinder valves as they are designed as per the specifications. It is advised never to refill disposable cylinders, as these are not designed for refilling. 3 Safety: Decomposition Handling of HFCs and HFC based blends
HFCs decompose on heating and form hydrofluoric acid. It is therefore advised that appliances should not be heated by flame, electrical heating element and smoke, etc. and the work area must be well ventilated. While charging if the cylinder becomes cold or some frost comes outside the cylinder then do not heat the same with flame but put the same cylinder in hot water of 40 degree C and then charge the refrigerant. In case of any decomposition ventilate the work area and advise not to smoke. Safety - Do not overfill cylinder
The technicians must be advised in this slide not to refill the cylinder more than 75% of the volume at the temperature of 21°C as the temperature is directly proportional to the space covered by refrigerant. Even at temperature of 21°C and 85% filled cylinder can get explosion at the same volume but at a temperature of 54°C. 3 Handling of HFCs and HFC based blends
Safely - POE Oils
POE, PAG and POA oils are used with HFCs. The oils cause skin problems. It is advised to wear gloves when handling oil / components. One must take special precautions in handling burnt-out systems, as burn-out of compressors results in formation of undesirable gases and specifically acids. It is better to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while handling burnt out systems and even working with mineral oils. Evaluation Questions 1. What are safety issues with HFCs?
2. How should HFC cylinders be stored?
3. Why should the cylinder not to filled above 75%?
4. What are the precautions to be taken in handling of POE oil?
