We will develop a comparison between two refrigerant gases: R404A and its substitute, R407F.
- R407F is an excellent replacement for R404A in applications where the evaporator is above -10°C.
- If R407F is used at lower temperatures, the compressor’s discharge temperature will be very high, affecting its operation and the viscosity of its lubricant.
- Let’s start by explaining that both R404A and R407F are internally formed by a mixture of several gases, so both must always be charged in liquid phase.
- For example, R404A contains approximately 4% R134A, 44% R125, and 52% R-143A.
- Meanwhile, the refrigerant gas R407F is composed of the following gases: R-134A at 40%, R125 at 30.0%, and R-32 at 30%.
- The glide of R404A is very low and lower than that of R407F. Remember that glide is the temperature change of the gas as it changes phase in the evaporator and condenser.
- Both R404A and R407F do not deplete the ozone layer.
- R407F has a global warming potential of 1825, while R404A has a GWP of 3920. Precisely, this high GWP value condemns the use of R404A due to ecological restrictions.
- R407F is considered a refrigerant replacement for R404A in applications with high and medium temperatures in the evaporator.
- Replacing R404A with R407F does not require any modifications in the system, as long as the evaporator temperature does not go below -10°C.
- R407F is a perfect substitute, as it works similarly to R404A with POE type oil.
- R407F is compatible with the components and joints of an existing R404A installation.
- Both R404A and R407F are gases with a safety classification of A1 group L1, meaning they have low toxicity and are non-flammable.
- R407F has excellent performance and cooling capacity, very similar to R404A.
