EPA Section 608 Universal Certification ExamCoreHard
Which of the following refrigerants is considered a very low-pressure refrigerant and requires specific recovery techniques due to its operating pressure below atmospheric pressure?
- AR-410A
- BR-123
- CR-134a
- DR-22
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. R-123
R-123 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant commonly used in low-pressure chillers. It operates at pressures below atmospheric pressure, meaning that air can leak INTO the system. This requires specific recovery techniques, such as heating the system, and special charging procedures.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. R-410A is a very high-pressure refrigerant.
- C. R-134a is a high-pressure refrigerant.
- D. R-22 is a medium-pressure refrigerant.
Very Low-Pressure Refrigerants
Refrigerants, such as R-123, that operate at pressures below atmospheric pressure, requiring specific handling procedures like heating the system for recovery and being vigilant about air and moisture ingress.
- Operate below atmospheric pressure.
- R-123 is a prime example.
- Air and moisture can leak IN.
- Requires heating for effective recovery.
- Subject to specific EPA regulations.
Memory trick: Low '123' means 'below' atmospheric 'pressure'.