HC001 – What are Hydrocarbons?

Hydrocarbons are naturally occurring organic compounds found within crude oil. The three most commonly used are: –

• Iso-butane (R600a)

• Propane (R290)

• Propene (Propylene (R1270).

R600a, R290 and R1270 are all single refrigerants and can therefore be charged as a vapour.

Other HCs used in commercial systems like Care 30 and Care 50 are blends and have a high temperature glide.

These are Zeotropic blends and must be charged in the liquid phase.

• Care 30 = Propane + Iso Butane

• Care 50 = Propane + Ethane

Refrigerant grade HC’s are high purity substances specified by their R number, they are         un-stenched and only these should be used in HC systems

• Hydrocarbons are heavier than air and will accumulate at low levels initially, should they leak

• Hydrocarbons are not suitable for use within a halocarbon (HFC) system

They also have an issue with oil miscibility that can lead to foaming of the oil and the risk of reduced lubrication within the compressor