R-1234yf is fairly similar to R-134a with a few key differences. R-1234yf has a global warming potential (GWP) 300 times lower than R-134a. When spilled, R-1234yf evaporates quickly which prevents the product from entering drains, unlike R-134a. If an average car leaks out the refrigerant one time into the atmosphere, it equals 80 gallons of equivalent emissions. If you need to clean up a spill, make sure you use low-sparking hand tools and explosion-proof electrical equipment.
R-1234yf Refrigerant
R-1234yf has been designated as MILDLY flammable. This simply means that it could ignite if it comes in contact with an open flame. It is important to note that it does have a low burning velocity and low heat or combustion. It has a very low-pressure rise and the flame is very slow-moving (less than 10cm/sec.) Compared to other liquids/chemicals/gases in a shop, it is an EXTREMELY slow-moving flame.
It has low volume in a vehicle and low impact flammability. By comparison, it has the significantly lowest flammability impact of the following common automotive fluids: gasoline, diesel, engine oil, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid.
The pressure/temperature curves for R-1234yf and R-134a are very similar. The curves run together nearly throughout the curve, only slightly breaking paths at around 250 psig/150 degrees and above. SouthPOINTE Radiator offers a variety of commercial truck services. From radiator repair to DPF cleaning, we can help!
If you have questions about the cooling system or heating system in your truck, contact the experts at SouthPOINTE Radiator today!