Conference Year
2018
Keywords
polymers, compatibility, R1234yf, R1234zeE, elastomers
Abstract
Understanding the compatibility of system materials with R1234yf, R1234zeE and R134a is critical to long term operation of air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Today's regulatory climate of reporting and eliminating system leaks leaves very little margin of error when approving elastomeric materials to seal internal and external connections over the lifetime of the system. Thermoplastics and polymeric O-ring materials have been tested in accelerated conditions to determine volume change, strength change, extraction of plasticizers or dyes, and compatibility of the lubricant and refrigerant. Results and conclusions are presented in graphical and tabular format along with conclusions on polymeric types are suited continued development as long term system sealing and functional life.