There has been an increased focus being placed on the environmental impact of vehicles in the automotive industry. The effect of refrigerants is driving the demand for a more sustainable refrigeration solution that provides expert cooling performance with a less significant impact on the environment. With this in mind, we at Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic would like to discuss the R1234yf refrigerant solution.
R1234yf Auto AC Refrigerant Replaces R134a
To limit the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of MAC refrigerant gases used in new car models, certified after January 2013, to 150GWP from January 2011, the EU Mobile Air-Conditioning systems (MACs) Directive was put in place in 2006. The requirement for the market to use more environmentally friendly methods of refrigeration, alongside new automotive air conditioning requirements put in place by the Society of Automotive Engineers is under the revision to the directive. As the next-generation solution and readily available replacement for the widely used R134a gas, the R1234yf refrigerant was developed. With minimal systematic and logistical amendments, the gases are relatively interchangeable being that the R1234yf system uses a similar system of materials, like hoses, pipes, and sealing rings, as the R134a system. The gas is more flammable than its predecessor however, though the R1234yf has significant environmental benefits and requires limited technical developments. Additional safeguards in handling, transportation, and servicing are implemented by the automotive industry.
R134a to R1234yf Adapter
To match the new valves and fittings, this new generation coolant requires a unique cap and seal configuration. To meet the specifications of R1234yf, there are certified experts providing a range of valve caps and plug solutions. With the proper solutions, the stability of the refrigerant in assured as well as preventing environmentally damaging leakage. All new passenger vehicles must convert to the new air-conditioning refrigerant in their systems, although the new gas is still being phased in, there has been a ban put in place on the use of R134a in all new vehicles design since January 1 2017. As we see a steady the demands for R1234yf refrigerant, there will be a need for these modifications.
Low Global Warming Potential (GWP)
Containing fluorine and hydrogen 134a is a hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant that is also impacting the environment. When it comes to the harmful effects on the gasses contributing to global warming is where the difference of the two is significantly different. With a lower Global Warming Potential, the 1234YF is better for the environment, which is a greenhouse gas that is as harmful as carbon dioxide. By the mid 2020’s, EPA in the United States followed suit ordering a full transition whereas the European Union required all vehicle manufacturers to replace 134a with 1234YF as mentioned. With full conversion in 2018, General Motors began introducing vehicles to the market utilizing this new system in 2013. In 2017, Honda, Chrysler, and Subaru models followed and by 2025, it is anticipated that all vehicles will contain 1234YF. As long as there is a demand for repair of older vehicles 134a will continue production, though it is being phased out.
Auto Air Conditioning Services & More in Dallas, Texas (Just Minutes Away from Addison, Balch Springs, Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Coppell, DeSoto, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Ferris, Garland, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mesquite, Ovilla, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Seagoville, Sunnyvale & Wylie, TX)
No matter which refrigerant your vehicle requires to ensure cool air conditioning, you can count on Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic for sufficient air conditioning repairs and other related services!
