Forane® 404A Refrigerant

Technical Specifications:

Forane® 404A is a zero ozone depletion blend of HFC refrigerants R-125, R-143a, and R-134a. It closely matches the properties of R-502, making it useful for a variety of medium- and low-temperature refrigeration applications.

Leading refrigeration compressor and system manufacturers have approved Forane® 404A for use in new equipment, including food display and storage cases, cold storage rooms, ice machines, and industrial refrigeration.

Forane® 404A can also be used to retrofit many existing R-502 systems. However, it is not intended as a direct "drop-in" service fluid.

Refrigerants used in the past were either single-component products or azeotropic blends that behaved as a single component. For the most part, having a small glide like Forane® 404A will perform the same as an azeotrope like R-502. But keep in mind that:

The temperature glide of Forane® 404A is less than 1.5° F (less than 1°C). This glide is usually not noticeable for all applications compared to normal temperature changes due to pressure drops. Because of Forane® 404A's low glide characteristics it is often suitable for flooded evaporator technology.

Forane® 404A will not significantly change in composition due to fractionation. However, there will be a slight difference in composition in the vapor phase, which is in equilibrium with liquid, such as in a cylinder. Always charge Forane® 404A as a liquid from the cylinder into equipment or systems.

Using Forane® 404A in New Equipment

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Performance -- In new installations, sizing and selecting compressors and other system components for use with Forane® 404A is the same as the process for R-502. Compressor capacity, line sizes, etc., will be chosen properly to fit the needs of the job.

Lubrication -- Forane® 404A requires a polyolester (POE) lubricant to ensure complete miscibility between oil and refrigerant. Miscibility is important for oil return to the compressor, especially in larger systems with long runs of piping. Manufacturers

supply equipment with the proper lubricant already charged, or provide specific recommendations on the type of brand of lubricant to be installed in the field.

Material Compatibility -- New compressors are constructed with materials that are compatible with Forane® 404A. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding materials used in parts already installed in the field.

Retrofitting Systems with Forane 404A

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Forane® 404A can be used in the retrofit of many existing R-502 installations, with the following considerations:

Lubrication -- Forane® 404A is not miscible with existing lubricants used in R-502 systems. Replace the mineral or alkylbenzene oil with a polyolester (POE) lubricant to a residual mineral oil level of less than 5%.

Systems Materials -- Check our retrofit literature and obtain recommendations from equipment manufacturers regarding compatibility of materials with Forane® 404A. Replace any materials not acceptable for use. Obtain procedures, material specifications, and other recommendations from equipment, component, and lubricant manufacturers.
Pressure Relief -- Due to operating pressures associated with Forane® 404A, consult the OEM product retrofit requirements for pressure relief modifications and/or requirements. In most cases no modification is needed.

Note:

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Some original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) may have different lubricant, safety, or retrofit requirements. Consult OEM guidelines for details.

Deliveries

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Forane® 404A can be delivered in bulk (18T) (Isocontainer or tank-truck or rail car) or in ton-tank (0.9T), or in pallet of 40 or 100 cylinders (13.6 kg each cylinder)