For procurement managers and R&D professionals in the chemical and refrigeration industries, a thorough understanding of product specifications is non-negotiable. Refrigerant Gas R134A is a prime example where precise specifications dictate performance, safety, and regulatory compliance. When you decide to buy R134A, especially from international suppliers, having a checklist of key specifications ensures you are sourcing the right product. This guide outlines the essential specifications for R134A, focusing on what buyers should look for from manufacturers and suppliers, particularly in China.

Key Specifications for Refrigerant Gas R134A

When evaluating R134A, consider these critical parameters:

  • CAS Number: The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry number is a unique identifier for chemical substances. For R134A, the CAS number is 811-97-2. This number is crucial for accurate identification and regulatory tracking.
  • Chemical Formula: The chemical formula for R134A is CH2FCF3. This indicates its composition as a fluorinated hydrocarbon.
  • Purity: This is arguably the most critical specification. Industrial-grade R134A should have a purity of at least 99.99%. Higher purity minimizes contaminants like moisture, acids, and non-condensable gases, which are detrimental to refrigeration system components and performance. Always request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to verify purity.
  • Appearance and Odor: R134A is characterized as Colorless and Clear, with an Odorless profile. Any deviation from this description can indicate contamination.
  • Boiling Point: The boiling point at standard atmospheric pressure is -26.1°C. This property is fundamental to how the refrigerant functions in the refrigeration cycle.
  • Critical Temperature and Pressure: Critical Temperature is 101.1°C, and Critical Pressure is 4.07 MPa. These parameters are important for engineers designing or analyzing refrigeration systems.
  • Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP): ODP for R134A is 0, meaning it does not deplete the ozone layer. Its GWP (AR4) is 1,430. While this is lower than older refrigerants, it is a consideration for environmental regulations and future sustainability strategies.
  • Acidity and Moisture Content: These should be extremely low. Typical specifications are Acidity ≤ 0.0001% and Moisture ≤ 0.0010%. High levels indicate potential for system corrosion and damage.
  • Evaporated Residue: This refers to the amount of non-volatile material left after evaporation. A low percentage, such as ≤ 0.01%, is desirable.

Sourcing Best Practices for R134A Buyers

When you plan to buy R134A from a Chinese manufacturer or supplier:

  • Verify Credentials: Ensure the supplier is reputable and has international trade experience. Look for certifications and audits.
  • Request Detailed Specifications: Ask for comprehensive product data sheets and CoAs for every batch.
  • Compare R134A Pricing: Obtain quotes from multiple sources, considering bulk purchase discounts.
  • Clarify Packaging: Confirm the available packaging formats (e.g., disposable cylinders, ISO tanks) and ensure they meet your operational needs.

By diligently reviewing these specifications and partnering with reliable Chinese suppliers, procurement professionals can ensure they acquire high-quality R134A that guarantees the performance and longevity of their refrigeration and cooling systems.