R290 refrigerant
R290 refrigerant is a natural refrigerant that is increasingly being used in industrial air conditioning and commercial refrigeration. This refrigerant is a high-purity hydrocarbon gas, considered highly efficient with a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and does not deplete the ozone layer (Ozone Depletion Potential: ODP). Therefore, it is a more environmentally friendly alternative to chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs) and hydrofluorocarbon (HFCs) refrigerants.
Properties of R290
This refrigerant is a colorless, odorless, non-toxic, and non-corrosive gas, but it is flammable. Therefore, it should be used with safety precautions in mind.
- Chemical formula: C₃H₈
- Boiling point: -42.1 °C
- Density: 0.505 g/cm³
- Ozone depletion potential (ODP): 0
- Global warming potential (GWP): 3*
- Flammability limit: 2.2% – 9.5%**
- Toxicity: Non-toxic
- Corrosion: Non-corrosive
- Refrigerant safety classification: A3 (Non-toxic but flammable)
*Note: Compared to hydrofluorocarbon (HFCs) refrigerants such as R410A, which has a significantly higher GWP of 2,088.
Industrial Applications of R290
R290 refrigerant is primarily used as a refrigerant in refrigeration systems such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and commercial cold storage units. It can also be used in some large-scale refrigeration systems, depending on the manufacturer’s design. Applications include:
- Commercial Refrigerators and Cold
- Storage Units: Commonly found in convenience stores, shops, and supermarkets.
- Air Conditioners: Used as a refrigerant in both residential and industrial air conditioning systems, including portable air conditioning units.
- Vending Machines
Chillers: Used to cool water or other liquids. - Heat Pumps: Used for heat transfer.
Storage and Precautions
Since this refrigerant is flammable, the following safety precautions should be observed during use:
- Do not smoke or create sparks while working.
- Store in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from heat sources, sunlight, and sparks.
- Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while working.
- Use appropriate equipment for flammable gases and only perform tasks by qualified personnel.
- Watch for and regularly check for leaks.
- Do not mix with other refrigerants or use for unintended purposes.
Quality Products
Thai Engineering Gas Co., Ltd. (TEG) is a distributor of various gases and chemicals, including refrigerants and aerosol gases such as Isobutane (R600a), R290, R32, R134a, R152a, R404A, R410A, R1270, Dimethyl ether (DME), Helium, etc. These are high-quality products from reliable manufacturers, ensuring maximum confidence in your product usage.