What Is R404A Refrigerant?

R404A is a hydrofluorocarbon mix of three refrigerants designed to serve as a replacement for the R22 and R502 chlorofluorocarbon refrigerants, which will be phased out of use by 2020. It is most often used as the working fluid of standard refrigerators.

Composition

• Cameo Chemicals website states R404A is a mixture of CF3CHF2 (R125, 44 percent by mass); CF3CH3 (R143A, 52 percent); and CH2FCF3 (R134A, 4 percent). The gas is colorless and odorless, and a container of it may erupt violently when exposed to extreme heat.

Classification

• This refrigerant blend's trade name is R404A. It's American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers number is 404A. The compound is listed as a zoetrope of near-azeotropic proportions.

Health Hazards

• Burns or frostbite may occur if skin is exposed to the gas. Since the gas is heavier than air, the gas spreads along the ground and may cause asphyxia. If ignited, toxic gases may be produced.