R444A

R444A is a low-GWP refrigerant blend developed for refrigeration and air-conditioning applications where reduced environmental impact is required. It combines HFC and HFO refrigerant technology and has operating characteristics that can make it relevant for selected applications using lower-GWP refrigerants.

R444A is a blend of R32, R152a and R1234ze(E). It has zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and a very low Global Warming Potential compared with traditional refrigerants such as R134a.

R444A is classified as an A2L refrigerant, meaning lower toxicity and mild flammability. Correct equipment, handling procedures, technician training and workshop safety practices are therefore important when working with R444A.

Key Characteristics

• Refrigerant designation: R444A
• Refrigerant type: Zeotropic blend
• Components: R32 / R152a / R1234ze(E)
• Refrigerant families: HFC/HFO blend
• Safety classification: A2L – lower toxicity, mildly flammable
• Ozone Depletion Potential: 0
• Global Warming Potential: approximately 90 (AR4 basis)
• Significantly lower GWP than R134a
• Mildly flammable and requires appropriate A2L service procedures
• Automotive Applications

R444A may be considered for selected mobile air-conditioning applications where its use is technically suitable, legally permitted and approved for the specific system.

Potential applications can include:

• Passenger vehicles
• Light commercial vehicles
• Hybrid vehicles
• Electric vehicles
• Commercial and specialist vehicles
• Other mobile A/C applications

The suitability of R444A must always be evaluated according to system design, component compatibility, safety requirements and applicable regulations.

R1234yf to R444A Retrofit

For applications where conversion from R1234yf to R444A is being considered, the refrigerant should not simply be exchanged without a defined and validated retrofit procedure.

The complete A/C or heat-pump system should first be evaluated for refrigerant, lubricant, seal, hose and component compatibility. Applicable vehicle and component manufacturer requirements must also be considered.

A professional retrofit procedure may include:

• Recovering the existing R1234yf
• Recording the original refrigerant and lubricant quantities
• Inspecting the complete system
• Flushing the system where required by the approved retrofit procedure
• Checking lubricant compatibility and quantity
• Replacing service fittings, seals or other components where required
• Performing vacuum and leak testing
• Charging the specified quantity of R444A
• Applying the appropriate retrofit identification label
• Checking operating pressures and temperatures
• Verifying cooling capacity and overall system performance

The correct R444A charge quantity should be established through an approved retrofit procedure and should not automatically be assumed to be identical to the original R1234yf charge.

Service & Safety

Because R444A is classified as A2L, service equipment and workshop procedures should be suitable for mildly flammable refrigerants.

Correct refrigerant identification is particularly important. R444A should not be mixed with R1234yf or other refrigerants during recovery, recycling or charging.

As a refrigerant blend, R444A should also be handled and charged according to the refrigerant supplier’s instructions to maintain the intended composition.

Refrigerant should never be intentionally released into the atmosphere and should always be recovered using suitable professional equipment.

Low-GWP Refrigerant Technology

With a GWP substantially below that of R134a, R444A represents one of several refrigerant technologies being evaluated or used to reduce the environmental impact of air-conditioning and refrigeration systems.

For automotive applications, any use or retrofit should always comply with local regulations and the technical and safety requirements applicable to the specific vehicle and system.

Nunchi Climate Group provides technical training, retrofit solutions, A/C service equipment, tools and technical support for R444A and other current and future automotive refrigerants.