Product Characteristics
Refrigerants used in motor vehicle air conditioning systems belong to the new generation of refrigerants based on chlorine-free, partially fluorinated hydrocarbons (H-FKW, R134a).
With regard to their physical properties, these are refrigerants which have been liquefied under pressure. They are subject to the regulations governing pressure containers and use is only to be made of approved and appropriately marked containers.
Compliance with specific conditions is required to ensure safe and proper use.
Handling Refrigerant
If refrigerant containers are opened, the contents may escape in liquid or vapor form. This process is intensified the higher the pressure in the container.
The pressure level is governed by two factors:
WARNING
Protective Eyewear
Put on protective goggles. They prevent refrigerant getting into the eyes, as this could cause severe injury from exposure to cold.
Protective Gloves and Clothing
Greases and oils dissolve readily in refrigerants. They would therefore destroy the protective layer of grease if allowed to come into contact with the skin. Degreased skin is however sensitive to the cold and germs.
Fluid Refrigerant and Skin Precaution
The refrigerant draws heat for evaporation from the surrounding area. Even if this is the skin. This may cause extremely low temperatures. Local frost bite may result (boiling point of R134a: -26.5 ºC (-15.7 ºF) at ambient pressure).
Refrigerant Vapor Precaution
If highly concentrated refrigerant vapor escapes, it mixes with the surrounding air and displaces the oxygen necessary for breathing.
Welding and Soldering on Refrigeration Systems
Before performing welding or soldering work on vehicles near A/C system components, extract the refrigerant and remove remnants by blowing them out with nitrogen.
The products of refrigerant decomposition due to the effect of heat are not only toxic, but may also have a highly corrosive effect on pipes and system components. They mainly take the form of hydrogen fluoride.
Pungent Odor
A pungent odor indicates that the products of decomposition mentioned above have already formed. Avoid inhaling these substances under all circumstances, as otherwise the respiratory system, lungs and other organs could be damaged.
First Aid
Also refer to → Chapter "Handling Pressure Containers"
Handling Pressure Containers
Secure containers to prevent them falling over!
Secure upright cylinders to stop them falling over and cylinders lying flat to stop them rolling away.
Do not throw containers!
If dropped, the containers could be so severely deformed that they rupture. The refrigerant evaporates immediately, liberating considerable force. Flying fragments of cylinders can cause severe injuries.
To protect the valves, cylinders are only to be transported with protective cap screwed on.
Valves may break off if cylinders are not properly transported.
Never store in the vicinity of radiators.
High temperatures may occur next to radiators. High temperatures are also accompanied by high pressures and the maximum permissible container pressure may be exceeded.
Not Warming Above 50 ºC (122 ºF)
To avoid possible risk, pressure container regulations specify that containers are not to be heated to in excess of 50 ºC (122 ºF).
Heating Warning
Do not heat with a naked flame under any circumstances. Localized overheating can cause structural changes in the container material, which then reduce its ability to withstand pressure. There is also a danger of refrigerant decomposition due to localized overheating.
Empty Containers
Empty refrigerant containers must always be sealed to prevent the ingress of moisture. Moisture causes steel containers to corrode. This weakens the containers walls. In addition, rust particles entering into refrigeration systems from containers will cause malfunctioning.
Extraction and Charging System Safety Regulations