We will explore the differences between R22 gas and R422 refrigerant. Let’s get started!
What’s the Difference Between R22 and R422 Gases Used in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration?
- First of all, it’s important to highlight that R22 and R422 are two completely different gases. In fact, R422 has been specifically designed to replace R22 due to the issues caused by R22 to the ozone layer, whereas R422 does not present this problem.
- R22 is a pure gas composed of a single component, while the refrigerants in the R422 family are formed by several components, such as refrigerant R125, refrigerant R134a, and isobutane gas R600.
- Furthermore, while R22 has only one variant, there are several types of refrigerant gases in the R422 family, such as R422A, R422B, R422C, R422D, and R422E.
- Although the gases in the R422 family have the same components, they vary in their proportions’ percentages.
- It’s important to note that R22 can be charged either in liquid or gaseous phase, while the gases in the R422 family must be charged only in liquid phase.
- Within the R422 family, the most recommended gas to replace R22 in air conditioning systems is R422D.
- Additionally, in lower-temperature applications, the R422A refrigerant is widely used as a substitute for R22.
- Both R22 and gases in the R422 family are non-flammable and non-toxic, classified as A1 in terms of safety and belong to group L1.
- These refrigerants are compatible with a variety of lubricants, including mineral oil MO, alkylbenzene oil AB, and polyol ester oil POE.
- However, gases in the R422 family generally have a high temperature glide, meaning their temperature changes during evaporation and condensation.
- In terms of cooling capacity, the R422 family tends to be slightly lower than that of R22, usually with less than a 5% difference.
- In some cases, using gases from the R422 family may require adjusting or regulating the expansion valve.
- A notable difference between R22 and the R422 family is that the discharge temperature at the compressor outlet is lower in R422 gases. This extends the lifespan of the oil and compressor.
- Refrigerants in the R422 family are also known by other names, such as Freon, MO 79, MO 49, MO 29, among others.
- However, not everything is perfect with the R422 family, as they have a relatively high global warming potential (GWP) due to the presence of component R125.
