What is the difference between r134a and hfc134a?
2 Answers
Here are the differences between r134a and hfc134a: 1. Chemical aspects: R134a has the molecular formula CHF2CHF2 (tetrafluoroethane), a molecular weight of 102.03, a boiling point of -26.26°C, a critical temperature of 101.1°C, and a critical pressure of 4067 kPa; HFC134a has the molecular formula CH2FCF3 (tetrachloroethane), a molecular weight of 102.03, a boiling point of -26.1°C, a critical temperature of 101.1°C, and a critical pressure of 4010 kPa. 2. Substance aspects: R134a and HFC134a are two different substances, but their physical properties are basically the same and they can be used interchangeably. Both R134a and HFC134a have an ODP value of zero. Their low toxicity makes them a very effective and safe alternative to replace CFC-12 used in the refrigeration industry. R134a and HFC134a are mainly used in automotive air conditioning, household appliances, small fixed refrigeration equipment, medium-temperature refrigeration in supermarkets, and commercial and industrial refrigeration machines.
R134a and HFC-134a actually refer to the same refrigerant, just like a nickname and a formal name, with no substantial difference. I remember that in automotive air conditioning systems, they are both hydrofluorocarbon substances used to cool the air inside the car, with exactly the same function. Many people get confused by the different names, but in fact, R134a is the customary term in the industry, while HFC-134a is more formal, indicating its chemical properties. This stuff became mainstream after the 1990s, replacing the harmful R12 refrigerant. Nowadays, if your car's AC isn't cooling properly, you need to check this and make sure you're refilling with a genuine product. However, current environmental regulations are pushing for a transition to newer, greener refrigerants like R1234yf. In short, don't get hung up on the name; the key is to check your car's manual and choose the right compatible product.
