Guidelines For The Utilization Of Guidelines For The Utilization Of

Guidelines For The Utilization Of Guidelines For The Utilization Of - Tecumseh Page 4

for R134a and R404A should apply to R600a and R290 compressors as well. In general, keeping the

return gas cool without flooding liquid refrigerant back to the compressor is beneficial in limiting compressor

discharge and motor temperatures to acceptable levels.

Refrigerant quantity:

The refrigerant quantity will depend on the system components. In general, 40 to

50% less R600a or R290 will be needed compared to R134a or R404A.

IV.

SYSTEM PROCESSING

Evacuation

The evacuation levels for R600a or R290 systems should be the same as for HCFC systems

(minimum of 200 microns at the system and pulled from both the low and high pressure sides of

the system). If care is not taken to prevent moisture from entering the system components prior

to assembly, evacuation could be expected to take longer to achieve acceptable limits of system

moisture and non-condensables.

Leak Testing

Use equipment that is designed for R600a or R290 detection by its manufacturer. Consult these

manufacturers for their recommendations on their equipment.

Refrigerant Charging

In general, materials found in refrigerant charging equipment such as charging boards, valves,

and hoses, which are compatible with HCFC’s should be compatible with R600a or R290. Consult

your equipment and component manufacturer for their specific recommendations. Proper care

must be exercised in the selection and use of charging equipment due to the flammable nature of

R600a and R290.

R600a and R290 can be charged in either the liquid or vapor state, since they are pure fluids. If

refrigerant charging is done in the liquid state, it should be done into the liquid line. Vapor charging

can be done into the suction line. (The preferred method of charging any refrigerant is to charge

liquid into the liquid line.) CAUTION: Always break the vacuum with refrigerant vapor or liquid

before applying power to the compressor.

RETROFITTING

Since special safety considerations must be applied in the design of equipment using hydrocarbon

refrigerants, such as R600a and R290, Tecumseh does not approve of, endorse, nor recommend retrofitting

existing systems with R600a and R290.

Ann Arbor, MI 48108

REV 11/08

Guidelines For The Utilization Of Guidelines For The Utilization Of - Tecumseh Page 4