Excellent cooling properties of Hydrocarbons
Kryon® 600a (Isobutane) is a Hydrocarbon (HC) classified as alkane. Hydrocarbons are refrigerants consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. These elements are already present in the atmosphere by nature, so they do not constitute a risk for the environment.
Kryon® 600a, like other hydrocarbons, is a flammable gas and there are safety issues related to its use. But the use of high efficient hydrocarbon refrigerant Kryon® 600a results in reduced refrigerant charge thanks to its thermodynamic properties. This extremely low refrigerant charge (a few grams) makes Kryon® 600a completely safe and high-performing.
Moreover the gas requires the use of mineral oils in the compressor of refrigeration units, and that avoids moisture problems related to the use of synthetic lubricants.
Application:
Kryon® 600a is used in commercial refrigeration: serve-over and self service counters, cold rooms, ice-maker machines, vending machines and refrigerated warehouses.
Kryon® 600a is also used in domestic refrigeration: freezers and domestic refrigerators.
Performance:
- The absence of ozone depletion potential of hydrocarbons allowed Kryon® 600a to be used increasingly not only as working fluid in refrigeration systems, but also as gas for the production of insulating foams for refrigerating machines.
- Kryon® 600a needs a reduced refrigerant charge in the systems because of its thermodynamic properties. And this results in a very low flammability hazard
Recommended Lubricants:
A distinctive feature of applications with hydrocarbon refrigerants, such as R290 and R600a, is the high solubility of the refrigerant in the lubricating oil. This strong dissolution can lead to significant dilution of the lubricant, reducing the thickness of the lubricating film under certain operating conditions. This may result in increased wear and a shorter compressor life. For this reason, it is essential to choose a lubricant with a higher initial viscosity, specifically formulated for applications with hydrocarbon refrigerants. The Kryonlube HC PAG series consists of synthetic PAG-based oils designed to offer low solubility with hydrocarbon refrigerants, helping to maintain an adequate lubricating film thickness and protect the compressor over time.
