TREA

COMPOSITION CONTAINING REFRIGERANT, USE OF SAID COMPOSITION, REFRIGERATOR HAVING SAID COMPOSITION, AND METHOD FOR OPERATING SAID REFRIGERATOR

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Information

  • Patent Application
  • 20230002659
  • Publication Number
    20230002659
  • Date Filed
    August 12, 2022
    2 years ago
  • Date Published
    January 05, 2023
    a year ago
Information
Abstract
An object is to provide a mixed refrigerant having three types of performance, i.e., a refrigerating capacity that is equivalent to that of R410A, a sufficiently low GWP, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard. Provided is a composition comprising a refrigerant, the refrigerant comprising trans-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(E)), difluoromethane (R32), and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene (R1234yf), wherein when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments AC, CF, FD, and DA that connect the following 4 points: point A (71.1, 0.0, 28.9), point C (36.5, 18.2, 45.3), point F (47.6, 18.3, 34.1), and point D (72.0, 0.0, 28.0), or on these line segments; the line segment AC is represented by coordinates (0.0181y2−2.2288y+71.096, y, −0.0181y2+1.2288y+28.904); the line segment FD is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−1.7y+72, y, −0.02y2+0.7y+28); and the line segments CF and DA are straight lines.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a composition comprising a refrigerant, use of the composition, a refrigerating machine having the composition, and a method for operating the refrigerating machine.


BACKGROUND ART

R410A is currently used as an air conditioning refrigerant for home air conditioners etc. R410A is a two-component mixed refrigerant of difluoromethane (CH2F2: HFC-32 or R32) and pentafluoroethane (C2HF5: HFC-125 or R125), and is a pseudo-azeotropic composition.


However, the global warming potential (GWP) of R410A is 2088. Due to growing concerns about global warming, R32, which has a GWP of 675, has been increasingly used.


For this reason, various low-GWP mixed refrigerants that can replace R410A have been proposed (PTL 1).


CITATION LIST
Patent Literature

PTL 1: WO2015/186557


SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem

The present inventors performed independent examination, and conceived of the idea that no prior art had developed refrigerant compositions having three types of performance; i.e., a refrigerating capacity (also referred to as “cooling capacity” or “capacity”) that is equivalent to that of R410A, a sufficiently low GWP, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the standard of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). An object of the present disclosure is to solve this unique problem.


Solution to Problem

Item 1.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising trans-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(E)), difluoromethane(R32), and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene (R1234yf),


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments IJ, JN, NE, and EI that connect the following 4 points:


      point I (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),


      point J (48.5, 18.3, 33.2),


      point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and


      point E (58.3, 0.0, 41.7)


      or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment EI;
    • the line segment IJ is represented by coordinates (0.0236y2−1.7616y+72.0, y, −0.0236y2+0.7616y+28.0);
    • the line segment NE is represented by coordinates (0.012y2−1.9003y+58.3, y, −0.012y2+0.9003y+41.7); and
    • the line segments JN and EI are straight lines.


Item 2.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments MM′, M′N, NV, VG, and GM that connect the following 5 points:


      point M (52.6, 0.0, 47.4),


      point M′ (39.2, 5.0, 55.8),


      point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1),


      point V (11.0, 18.1, 70.9), and


      point G (39.6, 0.0, 60.4),


      or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment GM);
    • the line segment MM′ is represented by coordinates (0.132y2−3.34y+52.6, y, -0.132y2+2.34y+47.4);
    • the line segment M′N is represented by coordinates (0.0596y2−2.2541y+48.98, y, -0.0596y2+1.2541y+51.02);
    • the line segment VG is represented by coordinates (0.0123y2−1.8033y+39.6, y, -0.0123y2+0.8033y+60.4); and the line segments NV and GM are straight lines.


Item 3.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and


R1234yf,


wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32 and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ON, NU, and UO that connect the following 3 points:


      point O (22.6, 36.8, 40.6),


      point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and


      point U (3.9, 36.7, 59.4),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment ON is represented by coordinates (0.0072y2−0.6701y+37.512, y, −0.0072y2−0.3299y+62.488);
    • the line segment NU is represented by coordinates (0.0083y2−1.7403y+56.635, y, −0.0083y2+0.7403y+43.365); and
    • the line segment UO is a straight line.


Item 4.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments QR, RT, TL, LK, and KQ that connect the following 5 points:


      point Q (44.6, 23.0, 32.4),


      point R (25.5, 36.8, 37.7),


      point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),


      point L (28.9, 51.7, 19.4), and


      point K (35.6, 36.8, 27.6),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment QR is represented by coordinates (0.0099y2−1.975y+84.765, y, −0.0099y2+0.975y+15.235);
    • the line segment RT is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874);
    • the line segment LK is represented by coordinates (0.0049y2−0.8842y+61.488, y, −0.0049y2−0.1158y+38.512);
    • the line segment KQ is represented by coordinates (0.0095y2−1.2222y+67.676, y, −0.0095y2+0.2222y+32.324); and
    • the line segment TL is a straight line.


Item 5.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments PS, ST, and TP that connect the following 3 points:


      point P (20.5, 51.7, 27.8),


      point S (21.9, 39.7, 38.4), and


      point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment PS is represented by coordinates (0.0064y2−0.7103y+40.1, y, −0.0064y2−0.2897y+59.9);
    • the line segment ST is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874); and
    • the line segment TP is a straight line.


Item 6.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ac, cf, fd, and da that connect the following 4 points:


      point a (71.1, 0.0, 28.9),


      point c (36.5, 18.2, 45.3),


      point f (47.6, 18.3, 34.1), and


      point d (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment ac is represented by coordinates (0.0181y2−2.2288y+71.096, y, −0.0181y2+1.2288y+28.904);
    • the line segment fd is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−1.7y+72, y, −0.02y2+0.7y+28); and
    • the line segments cf and da are straight lines.


Item 7.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ab, be, ed, and da that connect the following 4 points:


      point a (71.1, 0.0, 28.9),


      point b (42.6, 14.5, 42.9),


      point e (51.4, 14.6, 34.0), and


      point d (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment ab is represented by coordinates (0.0181y2−2.2288y+71.096, y, −0.0181y2+1.2288y+28.904);
    • the line segment ed is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−1.7y+72, y, −0.02y2+0.7y+28); and
    • the line segments be and da are straight lines.


Item 8.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments gi, ij, and jg that connect the following 3 points:


      point g (77.5, 6.9, 15.6),


      point i (55.1, 18.3, 26.6), and


      point j (77.5. 18.4, 4.1),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment gi is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−2.4583y+93.396, y, −0.02y2+1.4583y+6.604); and
    • the line segments ij and jg are straight lines.


Item 9.


A composition comprising a refrigerant,

    • the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,


      wherein
    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments gh, hi, and kg that connect the following 3 points:


      point g (77.5, 6.9, 15.6),


      point h (61.8, 14.6, 23.6), and


      point k (77.5, 14.6, 7.9),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment gh is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−2.4583y+93.396, y, −0.02y2+1.4583y+6.604); and
    • the line segments hk and kg are straight lines.


Item 10.


The composition according to any one of Items 1 to 9, for use as a working fluid for a refrigerating machine, wherein the composition further comprises a refrigeration oil.


Item 11.


The composition according to any one of Items 1 to 10, for use as an alternative refrigerant for R410A.


Item 12.


Use of the composition according to any one of Items 1 to 10 as an alternative refrigerant for R410A.


Item 13.


A refrigerating machine comprising the composition according to any one of Items 1 to 10 as a working fluid.


Item 14.


A method for operating a refrigerating machine, comprising the step of circulating the composition according to any one of Items 1 to 10 as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine.


ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

The refrigerant according to the present disclosure has three types of performance; i.e., a refrigerating capacity that is equivalent to that of R410A, a sufficiently low GWP, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard.





BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING


FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an apparatus used in measuring a burning velocity.



FIG. 2 is a view showing points A to C, E, G, and I to W; and line segments that connect points A to C, E, G, and I to W in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass %.





DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The present inventors conducted intensive studies to solve the above problem, and consequently found that a mixed refrigerant comprising trans-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(E)), difluoromethane (HFC-32 or R32), and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene (HFO-1234yf or R1234yf) has the properties described above.


The present disclosure has been completed as a result of further research based on this finding. The present disclosure includes the following embodiments.


Definition of Terms

In the present specification, the term “refrigerant” includes at least compounds that are specified in ISO 817 (International Organization for Standardization), and that are given a refrigerant number (ASHRAE number) representing the type of refrigerant with “R” at the beginning; and further includes refrigerants that have properties equivalent to those of such refrigerants, even though a refrigerant number is not yet given. Refrigerants are broadly divided into fluorocarbon compounds and non-fluorocarbon compounds in terms of the structure of the compounds. Fluorocarbon compounds include chlorofluorocarbons (CFC), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC), and hydrofluorocarbons (HFC). Non-fluorocarbon compounds include propane (R290), propylene (R1270), butane (R600), isobutane (R600a), carbon dioxide (R744), ammonia (R717), and the like.


In the present specification, the phrase “composition comprising a refrigerant” at least includes (1) a refrigerant itself (including a mixture of refrigerants), (2) a composition that further comprises other components and that can be mixed with at least a refrigeration oil to obtain a working fluid for a refrigerating machine, and (3) a working fluid for a refrigerating machine containing a refrigeration oil. In the present specification, of these three embodiments, the composition (2) is referred to as a “refrigerant composition” so as to distinguish it from a refrigerant itself (including a mixture of refrigerants). Further, the working fluid for a refrigerating machine (3) is referred to as a “refrigeration oil-containing working fluid” so as to distinguish it from the “refrigerant composition.”


In the present specification, when the term “alternative” is used in a context in which the first refrigerant is replaced with the second refrigerant, the first type of “alternative” means that equipment designed for operation using the first refrigerant can be operated using the second refrigerant under optimum conditions, optionally with changes of only a few parts (at least one of the following: refrigeration oil, gasket, packing, expansion valve, dryer, and other parts) and equipment adjustment. In other words, this type of alternative means that the same equipment is operated with an alternative refrigerant. Embodiments of this type of “alternative” include “drop-in alternative,” “nearly drop-in alternative,” and “retrofit,” in the order in which the extent of changes and adjustment necessary for replacing the first refrigerant with the second refrigerant is smaller.


The term “alternative” also includes a second type of “alternative,” which means that equipment designed for operation using the second refrigerant is operated for the same use as the existing use with the first refrigerant by using the second refrigerant. This type of alternative means that the same use is achieved with an alternative refrigerant.


In the present specification, the term “refrigerating machine” refers to machines in general that draw heat from an object or space to make its temperature lower than the temperature of ambient air, and maintain a low temperature. In other words, refrigerating machines refer to conversion machines that gain energy from the outside to do work, and that perform energy conversion, in order to transfer heat from where the temperature is lower to where the temperature is higher.


In the present specification, a refrigerant having a “WCF lower flammability” means that the most flammable composition (worst case of formulation for flammability: WCF) has a burning velocity of 10 cm/s or less according to the US ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2013. Further, in the present specification, a refrigerant having “ASHRAE lower flammability” means that the burning velocity of WCF is less than 10 cm/s, that the most flammable fraction composition (worst case of fractionation for flammability: WCFF), which is specified by performing a leakage test during storage, shipping, or use based on ANSI/ASHRAE 34-2013 using WCF, has a burning velocity of 10 cm/s or less, and that flammability classification according to the US ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2013 is determined to be classified as “Class 2L.”


1. Refrigerant

1.1 Refrigerant Component


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is a mixed refrigerant comprising trans-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(E)), difluoromethane (R32), and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene (R1234yf).


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure has various properties that are desirable as an R410A-alternative refrigerant; i.e., a refrigerating capacity equivalent to that of R410A, a sufficiently low GWP, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments IJ, JN, NE, and EI that connect the following 4 points:


      point I (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),


      point J (48.5, 18.3, 33.2),


      point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and


      point E (58.3, 0.0, 41.7),


      or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment EI);
    • the line segment IJ is represented by coordinates (0.0236y2−1.7616y+72.0, y, −0.0236y2+0.7616y+28.0);
    • the line segment NE is represented by coordinates (0.012y2−1.9003y+58.3, y, −0.012y2+0.9003y+41.7); and
    • the line segments JN and EI are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments MM′, M′N, NV, VG, and GM that connect the following 5 points:


      point M (52.6, 0.0, 47.4),


      point M′ (39.2, 5.0, 55.8),


      point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1),


      point V (11.0, 18.1, 70.9), and


      point G (39.6, 0.0, 60.4),


      or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment GM);
    • the line segment MM′ is represented by coordinates (0.132y2−3.34y+52.6, y, −0.132y2+2.34y+47.4);
    • the line segment M′N is represented by coordinates (0.0596y2−2.2541y+48.98, y, −0.0596y2+1.2541y+51.02);
    • the line segment VG is represented by coordinates (0.0123y2−1.8033y+39.6, y, −0.0123y2+0.8033y+60.4); and
    • the line segments NV and GM are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 70% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ON, NU, and UO that connect the following 3 points:


      point O (22.6, 36.8, 40.6),


      point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and


      point U (3.9, 36.7, 59.4),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment ON is represented by coordinates (0.0072y2−0.6701y+37.512, y, −0.0072y2−0.3299y+62.488);
    • the line segment NU is represented by coordinates (0.0083y2−1.7403y+56.635, y, −0.0083y2+0.7403y+43.365); and
    • the line segment UO is a straight line. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 250 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments QR, RT, TL, LK, and KQ that connect the following 5 points:


      point Q (44.6, 23.0, 32.4),


      point R (25.5, 36.8, 37.7),


      point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),


      point L (28.9, 51.7, 19.4), and


      point K (35.6, 36.8, 27.6),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment QR is represented by coordinates (0.0099y2−1.975y+84.765, y, −0.0099y2+0.975y+15.235);
    • the line segment RT is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874);
    • the line segment LK is represented by coordinates (0.0049y2−0.8842y+61.488, y, −0.0049y2−0.1158y+38.512);
    • the line segment KQ is represented by coordinates (0.0095y2−1.2222y+67.676, y, −0.0095y2+0.2222y+32.324); and
    • the line segment TL is a straight line. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments PS, ST, and TP that connect the following 3 points:


      point P (20.5, 51.7, 27.8),


      point S (21.9, 39.7, 38.4), and


      point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment PS is represented by coordinates (0.0064y2−0.7103y+40.1, y, −0.0064y2−0.2897y+59.9);
    • the line segment ST is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874); and
    • the line segment TP is a straight line. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ac, cf, fd, and da that connect the following 4 points:


      point a (71.1, 0.0, 28.9),


      point c (36.5, 18.2, 45.3),


      point f (47.6, 18.3, 34.1), and


      point d (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment ac is represented by coordinates (0.0181y2−2.2288y+71.096, y, −0.0181y2+1.2288y+28.904);
    • the line segment fd is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−1.7y+72, y, −0.02y2+0.7y+28); and
    • the line segments cf and da are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 85% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ab, be, ed, and da that connect the following 4 points:


      point a (71.1, 0.0, 28.9),


      point b (42.6, 14.5, 42.9),


      point e (51.4, 14.6, 34.0), and


      point d (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment ab is represented by coordinates (0.0181y2−2.2288y+71.096, y, −0.0181y2+1.2288y+28.904);
    • the line segment ed is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−1.7y+72, y, −0.02y2+0.7y+28); and
    • the line segments be and da are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 85% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 100 or less, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments gi, ij, and jg that connect the following 3 points:


      point g (77.5, 6.9, 15.6),


      point i (55.1, 18.3, 26.6), and


      point j (77.5. 18.4, 4.1),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment gi is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−2.4583y+93.396, y, −0.02y2+1.4583y+6.604); and
    • the line segments ij and jg are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 95% or more relative to R410A and a GWP of 100 or less, undergoes fewer or no changes such as polymerization or decomposition, and also has excellent stability.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein

    • when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments gh, hk, and kg that connect the following 3 points:


      point g (77.5, 6.9, 15.6),


      point h (61.8, 14.6, 23.6), and


      point k (77.5, 14.6, 7.9),


      or on these line segments;
    • the line segment gh is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−2.4583y+93.396, y, −0.02y2+1.4583y+6.604); and
    • the line segments hk and kg are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 95% or more relative to R410A and a GWP of 100 or less, undergoes fewer or no changes such as polymerization or decomposition, and also has excellent stability.


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure may further comprise other additional refrigerants in addition to HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf, as long as the above properties and effects are not impaired. In this respect, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure preferably comprises HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf in a total amount of 99.5 mass % or more, more preferably 99.75 mass % or more, and still more preferably 99.9 mass % or more based on the entire refrigerant.


Such additional refrigerants are not limited, and can be selected from a wide range of refrigerants. The mixed refrigerant may comprise a single additional refrigerant, or two or more additional refrigerants.


1.2. Use


The refrigerant according to the present disclosure can be preferably used as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine.


The composition according to the present disclosure is suitable for use as an alternative refrigerant for R410A.


2. Refrigerant Composition

The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure comprises at least the refrigerant according to the present disclosure, and can be used for the same use as the refrigerant according to the present disclosure. Moreover, the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure can be further mixed with at least a refrigeration oil to thereby obtain a working fluid for a refrigerating machine.


The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure further comprises at least one other component in addition to the refrigerant according to the present disclosure. The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise at least one of the following other components, if necessary. As described above, when the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure is used as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine, it is generally used as a mixture with at least a refrigeration oil. Therefore, it is preferable that the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure does not substantially comprise a refrigeration oil. Specifically, in the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure, the content of the refrigeration oil based on the entire refrigerant composition is preferably 0 to 1 mass %, and more preferably 0 to 0.1 mass %.


2.1. Water


The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may contain a small amount of water. The water content of the refrigerant composition is preferably 0.1 mass % or less based on the entire refrigerant. A small amount of water contained in the refrigerant composition stabilizes double bonds in the molecules of unsaturated fluorocarbon compounds that can be present in the refrigerant, and makes it less likely that the unsaturated fluorocarbon compounds will be oxidized, thus increasing the stability of the refrigerant composition.


2.2. Tracer A tracer is added to the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure at a detectable concentration such that when the refrigerant composition has been diluted, contaminated, or undergone other changes, the tracer can trace the changes.


The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single tracer, or two or more tracers.


The tracer is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used tracers. It is preferable that a compound that cannot be an impurity inevitably mixed into the refrigerant according to the present disclosure is selected as the tracer.


Examples of tracers include hydrofluorocarbons, hydrochlorofluorocarbons, chlorofluorocarbons, hydrochlorocarbons, fluorocarbons, deuterated hydrocarbons, deuterated hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, fluoroethers, brominated compounds, iodinated compounds, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and nitrous oxide (N2O). The tracer is particularly preferably a hydrofluorocarbon, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon, a chlorofluorocarbon, a fluorocarbon, a hydrochlorocarbon, a fluorocarbon, or a fluoroether.


Specifically, the following compounds are preferable as the tracer.


FC-14 (tetrafluoromethane, CF4)


HCC-40 (chloromethane, CH3Cl)


HFC-23 (trifluoromethane, CHF3)


HFC-41 (fluoromethane, CH3Cl)


HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane, CF3CHF2)


HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, CF3CH2F)


HFC-134 (1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, CHF2CHF2)


HFC-143a (1,1,1-trifluoroethane, CF3CH3)


HFC-143 (1,1,2-trifluoroethane, CHF2CH2F)


HFC-152a (1,1-difluoroethane, CHF2CH3)


HFC-152 (1,2-difluoroethane, CH2FCH2F)


HFC-161 (fluoroethane, CH3CH2F)


HFC-245fa (1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane, CF3CH2CHF2)


HFC-236fa (1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane, CF3CH2CF3)


HFC-236ea (1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane, CF3CHFCHF2)


HFC-227ea (1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane, CF3CHFCF3)


HCFC-22 (chlorodifluoromethane, CHClF2)


HCFC-31 (chlorofluoromethane, CH2ClF)


CFC-1113 (chlorotrifluoroethylene, CF2=CClF)


HFE-125 (trifluoromethyl-difluoromethyl ether, CF3OCHF2)


HFE-134a (trifluoromethyl-fluoromethyl ether, CF3OCH2F)


HFE-143a (trifluoromethyl-methyl ether, CF3OCH3)


HFE-227ea (trifluoromethyl-tetrafluoroethyl ether, CF3OCHFCF3)


HFE-236fa (trifluoromethyl-trifluoroethyl ether, CF3OCH2CF3)


The tracer compound can be present in the refrigerant composition at a total concentration of about 10 parts per million by weight (ppm) to about 1000 ppm. The tracer compound is preferably present in the refrigerant composition at a total concentration of about 30 ppm to about 500 ppm, and most preferably about 50 ppm to about 300 ppm.


2.3. Ultraviolet Fluorescent Dye


The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single ultraviolet fluorescent dye, or two or more ultraviolet fluorescent dyes.


The ultraviolet fluorescent dye is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used ultraviolet fluorescent dyes.


Examples of ultraviolet fluorescent dyes include naphthalimide, coumarin, anthracene, phenanthrene, xanthene, thioxanthene, naphthoxanthene, fluorescein, and derivatives thereof. The ultraviolet fluorescent dye is particularly preferably either naphthalimide or coumarin, or both.


2.4. Stabilizer


The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single stabilizer, or two or more stabilizers.


The stabilizer is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used stabilizers.


Examples of stabilizers include nitro compounds, ethers, and amines.


Examples of nitro compounds include aliphatic nitro compounds, such as nitromethane and nitroethane; and aromatic nitro compounds, such as nitro benzene and nitro styrene.


Examples of ethers include 1,4-dioxane.


Examples of amines include 2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropylamine and diphenylamine.


Examples of stabilizers also include butylhydroxyxylene and benzotriazole.


The content of the stabilizer is not limited. Generally, the content of the stabilizer is preferably 0.01 to 5 mass %, and more preferably 0.05 to 2 mass %, based on the entire refrigerant.


2.5. Polymerization Inhibitor


The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single polymerization inhibitor, or two or more polymerization inhibitors.


The polymerization inhibitor is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used polymerization inhibitors.


Examples of polymerization inhibitors include 4-methoxy-1-naphthol, hydroquinone, hydroquinone methyl ether, dimethyl-t-butylphenol, 2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-cresol, and benzotriazole.


The content of the polymerization inhibitor is not limited. Generally, the content of the polymerization inhibitor is preferably 0.01 to 5 mass %, and more preferably 0.05 to 2 mass %, based on the entire refrigerant.


3. Refrigeration Oil-Containing Working Fluid

The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure comprises at least the refrigerant or refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure and a refrigeration oil, for use as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine. Specifically, the refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure is obtained by mixing a refrigeration oil used in a compressor of a refrigerating machine with the refrigerant or the refrigerant composition. The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid generally comprises 10 to 50 mass % of refrigeration oil.


3.1. Refrigeration Oil


The composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single refrigeration oil, or two or more refrigeration oils.


The refrigeration oil is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used refrigeration oils. In this case, refrigeration oils that are superior in the action of increasing the miscibility with the mixture and the stability of the mixture, for example, are suitably selected as necessary.


The base oil of the refrigeration oil is preferably, for example, at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyalkylene glycols (PAG), polyol esters (POE), and polyvinyl ethers (PVE).


The refrigeration oil may further contain additives in addition to the base oil. The additive may be at least one member selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, extreme-pressure agents, acid scavengers, oxygen scavengers, copper deactivators, rust inhibitors, oil agents, and antifoaming agents.


A refrigeration oil with a kinematic viscosity of 5 to 400 cSt at 40° C. is preferable from the standpoint of lubrication.


The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure may further optionally contain at least one additive. Examples of additives include compatibilizing agents described below.


3.2. Compatibilizing Agent


The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure may comprise a single compatibilizing agent, or two or more compatibilizing agents.


The compatibilizing agent is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used compatibilizing agents.


Examples of compatibilizing agents include polyoxyalkylene glycol ethers, amides, nitriles, ketones, chlorocarbons, esters, lactones, aryl ethers, fluoroethers, and 1,1,1-trifluoroalkanes. The compatibilizing agent is particularly preferably a polyoxyalkylene glycol ether.


4. Method for Operating Refrigerating Machine

The method for operating a refrigerating machine according to the present disclosure is a method for operating a refrigerating machine using the refrigerant according to the present disclosure.


Specifically, the method for operating a refrigerating machine according to the present disclosure comprises the step of circulating the refrigerant according to the present disclosure in a refrigerating machine.


The embodiments are described above; however, it will be understood that various changes in forms and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims.


EXAMPLES

The present disclosure is described in more detail below with reference to Examples. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the Examples.


The composition of each mixed refrigerant of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf was defined as WCF. A leak simulation was performed using the NIST Standard Reference Database REFLEAK Version 4.0 under the conditions of Equipment, Storage, Shipping, Leak, and Recharge according to the ASHRAE Standard 34-2013. The most flammable fraction was defined as WCFF.


A burning velocity test was performed using the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in the following manner. First, the mixed refrigerants used had a purity of 99.5% or more, and were degassed by repeating a cycle of freezing, pumping, and thawing until no traces of air were observed on the vacuum gauge. The burning velocity was measured by the closed method. The initial temperature was ambient temperature. Ignition was performed by generating an electric spark between the electrodes in the center of a sample cell. The duration of the discharge was 1.0 to 9.9 ms, and the ignition energy was typically about 0.1 to 1.0 J. The spread of the flame was visualized using schlieren photographs. A cylindrical container (inner diameter: 155 mm, length: 198 mm) equipped with two light transmission acrylic windows was used as the sample cell, and a xenon lamp was used as the light source. Schlieren images of the flame were recorded by a high-speed digital video camera at a frame rate of 600 fps and stored on a PC. Tables 1 to 3 show the results.

















TABLE 1









Comparative









Example 13

Example 12

Example 14

Example 16















Item
Unit
I
Example 11
J
Example 13
K
Example 15
L



















WCF
HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
72
57.2
48.5
41.2
35.6
32
28.9



R32
Mass %
0
10
18.3
27.6
36.8
44.2
51.7



R1234yf
Mass %
28
32.8
33.2
31.2
27.6
23.8
19.4















Burning Velocity (WCF)
cm/s
10
10
10
10
10
10
10




















TABLE 2









Comparative





Example 14

Example 19











Item
Unit
M
Example 18
W















WCF
HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
52.6
39.2
32.4



R32
Mass %
0.0
5.0
10.0



R1234yf
Mass %
47.4
55.8
57.6










Leak condition that
Storage,
Storage,
Storage,


results in WCFF
Shipping, −40° C.,
Shipping, −40° C.,
Shipping, −40° C.,



0% release, on the
0% release, on the
0% release, on the



gas phase side
gas phase side
gas phase side












WCF
HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
72.0
57.8
48.7



R32
Mass %
0.0
9.5
17.9



R1234yf
Mass %
28.0
32.7
33.4











Burning Velocity (WCF)
cm/s
8 or less
8 or less
8 or less


Burning Velocity (WCFF)
cm/s
10
10
10  













Example 21












Item
Unit
Example 20
N
Example 22















WCF
HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
29.3
27.7
24.6



R32
Mass %
14.5
18.2
27.6



R1234yf
Mass %
56.2
54.1
47.8










Leak condition that
Storage,
Storage,
Storage,


results in WCFF
Shipping, −40° C.,
Shipping, −40° C.,
Shipping, −40° C.,



0% release, on the
0% release, on the
0% release, on the



gas phase side
gas phase side
gas phase side












WCF
HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
43.6
40.6
34.9



R32
Mass %
24.2
28.7
38.1



R1234yf
Mass %
32.2
30.7
27.0











Burning Velocity (WCF)
cm/s
8 or less
8 or less
8 or less


Burning Velocity (WCFF)
cm/s
10  
10  
10  




















TABLE 3









Example 23

Example 25











Item
Unit
O
Example 24
P















WCF
HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
22.6
21.2
20.5



HFO-1123
Mass %
36.8
44.2
51.7



R1234yf
Mass %
40.6
34.6
27.8










Leak condition that results in WCFF
Storage,
Storage,
Storage,



Shipping, −40° C.,
Shipping, −40° C.,
Shipping, −40° C.,



0% release, on
0% release, on
0% release, on



the gas phase side
the gas phase side
the gas phase side












WCFF
HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
31.4
29.2
27.1



HFO-1123
Mass %
45.7
51.1
56.4



R1234yf
Mass %
23.0
19.7
16.5











Burning Velocity (WCF)
cm/s
8 or less
8 or less
8 or less


Burning Velocity (WCFF)
cm/s
10  
10  
10  









The results indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in the ternary composition diagram shown in FIG. 2 in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are on the line segment that connects point I, point J, point K, and point L, or below these line segments, the refrigerant has a WCF lower flammability.


The results also indicate that when coordinates (x,y,z) in the ternary composition diagram shown in FIG. 2 are on the line segments that connect point M, point M′, point W, point J, point N, and point P, or below these line segments, the refrigerant has an ASHRAE lower flammability.


Mixed refrigerants were prepared by mixing HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf in amounts (mass %) shown in Tables 4 to 32 based on the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf. The coefficient of performance (COP) ratio and the refrigerating capacity ratio relative to R410 of the mixed refrigerants shown in Tables 4 to 32 were determined. The conditions for calculation were as described below.


Evaporating temperature: 5° C.


Condensation temperature: 45° C.


Degree of superheating: 5 K


Degree of subcooling: 5 K


Compressor efficiency: 70%


Tables 4 to 32 show these values together with the GWP of each mixed refrigerant.

















TABLE 4








Comparative
Comparative
Comparative
Comparative
Comparative
Comparative




Comparative
Example 2
Example 3
Example 4
Example 5
Example 6
Example 7


Item
Unit
Example 1
A
B
A′
B′
A″
B″























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
R410A
81.6
0.0
63.1
0.0
48.2
0.0


R32
Mass %

18.4
18.1
36.9
36.7
51.8
51.5


R1234yf
Mass %

0.0
81.9
0.0
63.3
0.0
48.5


GWP
—
2088
125
125
250
250
350
350


COP Ratio
% (relative
100
98.7
103.6
98.7
102.3
99.2
102.2



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
100
105.3
62.5
109.9
77.5
112.1
87.3


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio
























TABLE 5







Comparative

Comparative








Example 8
Comparative
Example 10

Example 2

Example 4


Item
Unit
C
Example 9
C′
Example 1
R
Example 3
T























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
85.5
66.1
52.1
37.8
25.5
16.6
8.6


R32
Mass %
0.0
10.0
18.2
27.6
36.8
44.2
51.6


R1234yf
Mass %
14.5
23.9
29.7
34.6
37.7
39.2
39.8


GWP
—
1
69
125
188
250
300
350


COP Ratio
% (relative
99.8
99.3
99.3
99.6
100.2
100.8
101.4



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
92.5
92.5
92.5
92.5
92.5
92.5
92.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 6







Comparative




Comparative






Example 11

Example 6

Example 8
Example 12

Example 10


Item
Unit
E
Example 5
N
Example 7
U
G
Example 9
V
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
58.3
40.5
27.7
14.9
3.9
39.6
22.8
11.0


R32
Mass %
0.0
10.0
18.2
27.6
36.7
0.0
10.0
18.1


R1234yf
Mass %
41.7
49.5
54.1
57.5
59.4
60.4
67.2
70.9


GWP
—
2
70
125
189
250
3
70
125


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.3
100.3
100.7
101.2
101.9
101.4
101.8
102.3



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
80.0
80.0
80.0
80.0
80.0
70.0
70.0
70.0


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 7







Comparative











Example 13

Example 12

Example 14

Example 16
Example 17


Item
Unit
I
Example 11
J
Example 13
K
Example 15
L
Q
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
72.0
57.2
48.5
41.2
35.6
32.0
28.9
44.6


R32
Mass %
0.0
10.0
18.3
27.6
36.8
44.2
51.7
23.0


R1234yf
Mass %
28.0
32.8
33.2
31.2
27.6
23.8
19.4
32.4


GWP
—
2
69
125
188
250
300
350
157


COP Ratio
% (relative
99.9
99.5
99.4
99.5
99.6
99.8
100.1
99.4



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
86.6
88.4
90.9
94.2
97.7
100.5
103.3
92.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio























TABLE 8







Comparative









Example 14

Example 19

Example 21


Item
Unit
M
Example 18
W
Example 20
N
Example 22






















HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
52.6
39.2
32.4
29.3
27.7
24.5


R32
Mass %
0.0
5.0
10.0
14.5
18.2
27.6


R1234yf
Mass %
47.4
55.8
57.6
56.2
54.1
47.9


GWP
—
2
36
70
100
125
188


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.5
100.9
100.9
100.8
100.7
100.4



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
77.1
74.8
75.6
77.8
80.0
85.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio





















TABLE 9







Example 23

Example 25
Example 26


Item
Unit
O
Example 24
P
S




















HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
22.6
21.2
20.5
21.9


R32
Mass %
36.8
44.2
51.7
39.7


R1234yf
Mass %
40.6
34.6
27.8
38.4


GWP
—
250
300
350
270


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.4
100.5
100.6
100.4



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
91.0
95.0
99.1
92.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 10







Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.


Comp.
Comp.


Item
Unit
Ex. 15
Ex. 16
Ex. 17
Ex. 18
Example 27
Example 28
Ex. 19
Ex. 20
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
70.0
80.0


R32
Mass %
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0


R1234yf
Mass %
85.0
75.0
65.0
55.0
45.0
35.0
25.0
15.0


GWP
—
37
37
37
36
36
36
35
35


COP Ratio
% (relative
103.4
102.6
101.6
100.8
100.2
99.8
99.6
99.4



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
56.4
63.3
69.5
75.2
80.5
85.4
90.1
94.4


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 11







Comp.
Comp.

Comp.

Comp.
Comp.
Comp.


Item
Unit
Ex. 21
Ex. 22
Example 29
Ex. 23
Example 30
Ex. 24
Ex. 25
Ex. 26
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
70.0
80.0


R32
Mass %
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0


R1234yf
Mass %
80.0
70.0
60.0
50.0
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0


GWP
—
71
71
70
70
70
69
69
69


COP Ratio
% (relative
103.1
102.1
101.1
100.4
99.8
99.5
99.2
99.1



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
61.8
68.3
74.3
79.7
84.9
89.7
94.2
98.4


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 12







Comp.

Comp.


Comp.
Comp.
Comp.


Item
Unit
Ex. 27
Example 31
Ex. 28
Example 32
Example 33
Ex. 29
Ex. 30
Ex. 31
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
70.0
80.0


R32
Mass %
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0


R1234yf
Mass %
75.0
65.0
55.0
45.0
35.0
25.0
15.0
5.0


GWP
—
104
104
104
103
103
103
103
102


COP Ratio
%(relative
102.7
101.6
100.7
100.0
99.5
99.2
99.0
98.9



to R410A)


Refrigerating
%(relative
66.6
72.9
78.6
84.0
89.0
93.7
98.1
102.2


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 13







Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.


Item
Unit
Ex. 32
Ex. 33
Ex. 34
Ex. 35
Ex. 36
Ex. 37
Ex. 38
Ex. 39
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
70.0
10.0


R32
Mass %
20.0
20.0
20.0
20.0
20.0
20.0
20.0
25.0


R1234yf
Mass %
70.0
60.0
50.0
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0
65.0


GWP
—
138
138
137
137
137
136
136
171


COP Ratio
% (relative
102.3
101.2
100.4
99.7
99.3
99.0
98.8
101.9



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
71.0
77.1
82.7
88.0
92.9
97.5
101.7
75.0


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 14








Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.



Item
Unit
Example 34
Ex. 40
Ex. 41
Ex. 42
Ex. 43
Ex. 44
Ex. 45
Example 35
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
70.0
10.0
20.0


R32
Mass %
25.0
25.0
25.0
25.0
25.0
25.0
30.0
30.0


R1234yf
Mass %
55.0
45.0
35.0
25.0
15.0
5.0
60.0
50.0


GWP
—
171
171
171
170
170
170
205
205


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.9
100.1
99.6
99.2
98.9
98.7
101.6
100.7



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
81.0
86.6
91.7
96.5
101.0
105.2
78.9
84.8


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 15







Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.



Comp.


Item
Unit
Ex. 46
Ex. 47
Ex. 48
Ex. 49
Example 36
Example 37
Example 38
Ex. 50
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0


R32
Mass %
30.0
30.0
30.0
30.0
35.0
35.0
35.0
35.0


R1234yf
Mass %
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0
55.0
45.0
35.0
25.0


GWP
—
204
204
204
204
239
238
238
238


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.0
99.5
99.1
98.8
101.4
100.6
99.9
99.4



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
90.2
95.3
100.0
104.4
82.5
88.3
93.7
98.6


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 16







Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.

Comp.
Comp.
Comp.


Item
Unit
Ex. 51
Ex. 52
Ex. 53
Ex. 54
Example 39
Ex. 55
Ex. 56
Ex. 57
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
50.0
60.0
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
10.0


R32
Mass %
35.0
35.0
40.0
40.0
40.0
40.0
40.0
45.0


R1234yf
Mass %
15.0
5.0
50.0
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0
45.0


GWP
—
237
237
272
272
272
271
271
306


COP Ratio
% (relative
99.0
98.8
101.3
100.6
99.9
99.4
99.0
101.3



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
103.2
107.5
86.0
91.7
96.9
101.8
106.3
89.3


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 17







Example
Example
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Example
Comp.
Comp.


Item
Unit
40
41
Ex. 58
Ex. 59
Ex. 60
42
Ex. 61
Ex. 62
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0


R32
Mass %
45.0
45.0
45.0
45.0
50.0
50.0
50.0
50.0


R1234yf
Mass %
35.0
25.0
15.0
5.0
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0


GWP
—
305
305
305
304
339
339
339
338


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.6
100.0
99.5
99.1
101.3
100.6
100.0
99.5



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
94.9
100.0
104.7
109.2
92.4
97.8
102.9
107.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 18







Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Comp.
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
Ex. 63
Ex. 64
Ex. 65
Ex. 66
43
44
45
46
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
56.0
59.0
62.0
65.0


R32
Mass %
55.0
55.0
55.0
55.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0


R1234yf
Mass %
35.0
25.0
15.0
5.0
41.0
38.0
35.0
32.0


GWP
—
373
372
372
372
22
22
22
22


COP Ratio
% (relative
101.4
100.7
100.1
99.6
100.1
100.0
99.9
99.8



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
95.3
100.6
105.6
110.2
81.7
83.2
84.6
86.0


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 19







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
49.0
52.0
55.0
58.0
61.0
43.0
46.0
49.0


R32
Mass %
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
9.0
9.0
9.0


R1234yf
Mass %
45.0
42.0
39.0
36.0
33.0
48.0
45.0
42.0


GWP
—
43
43
43
43
42
63
63
63


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.2
100.0
99.9
99.8
90.7
100.3
100.1
99.9



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
80.9
82.4
83.9
85.4
86.8
80.4
82.0
83.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 20







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
52.0
55.0
58.0
38.0
41.0
44.0
47.0
50.0


R32
Mass %
9.0
9.0
9.0
12.0
12.0
12.0
12.0
12.0


R1234yf
Mass %
39.0
36.0
33.0
50.0
47.0
44.0
41.0
38.0


GWP
—
63
63
63
83
83
83
83
83


COP Ratio
% (relative
99.8
99.7
99.6
100.3
100.1
100.0
99.8
99.7



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
85.0
86.5
87.9
80.4
82.0
83.5
85.1
86.6


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 21







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
53.0
33.0
36.0
39.0
42.0
45.0
48.0
51.0


R32
Mass %
12.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0


R1234yf
Mass %
35.0
52.0
49.0
46.0
43.0
40.0
37.0
34.0


GWP
—
83
104
104
103
103
103
103
103


COP Ratio
% (relative
99.6
100.5
100.3
100.1
99.9
99.7
99.6
99.5



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
88.0
80.3
81.9
83.5
85.0
86.5
88.0
89.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 22







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
29.0
32.0
35.0
38.0
41.0
44.0
47.0
36.0


R32
Mass %
18.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
3.0


R1234yf
Mass %
51.0
50.0
47.0
44.0
41.0
38.0
35.0
61.0


GWP
—
124
124
124
124
124
123
123
23


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.6
100.3
100.1
99.9
99.8
99.8
99.5
101.3



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
80.6
82.2
83.8
85.4
86.9
88.4
89.9
71.0


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 23







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
39.0
42.0
30.0
33.0
36.0
26.0
29.0
32.0


R32
Mass %
3.0
3.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
9.0
9.0
9.0


R1234yf
Mass %
58.0
55.0
64.0
61.0
58.0
65.0
62.0
59.0


GWP
—
23
23
43
43
43
64
64
63


COP Ratio
% (relative
101.1
100.9
101.5
101.3
101.0
101.6
101.3
101.1



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
72.7
74.4
70.5
72.2
73.9
71.0
72.8
74.5


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 24







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
21.0
24.0
27.0
30.0
16.0
19.0
22.0
25.0


R32
Mass %
12.0
12.0
12.0
12.0
15.0
15.0
15.0
15.0


R1234yf
Mass %
67.0
64.0
61.0
58.0
69.0
66.0
63.0
60.0


GWP
—
84
84
84
84
104
104
104
104


COP Ratio
% (relative
101.8
101.5
101.2
101.0
102.1
101.8
101.4
101.2



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
70.8
72.6
74.3
76.0
70.4
72.3
74.0
75.8


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 25







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
28.0
12.0
15.0
18.0
21.0
24.0
27.0
25.0


R32
Mass %
15.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
18.0
21.0


R1234yf
Mass %
57.0
70.0
67.0
64.0
61.0
58.0
55.0
54.0


GWP
—
104
124
124
124
124
124
124
144


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.9
102.2
101.9
101.6
101.3
101.0
100.7
100.7



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
77.5
70.5
72.4
74.2
76.0
77.7
79.4
80.7


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 26







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
21.0
24.0
17.0
20.0
23.0
13.0
16.0
19.0


R32
Mass %
24.0
24.0
27.0
27.0
27.0
30.0
30.0
30.0


R1234yf
Mass %
65.0
52.0
56.0
53.0
50.0
57.0
54.0
51.0


GWP
—
164
164
185
185
184
205
205
205


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.9
100.6
101.1
100.8
100.6
101.3
101.0
100.8



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
80.8
82.5
80.8
82.5
84.2
80.7
82.5
84.2


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 27







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
22.0
9.0
12.0
15.0
18.0
21.0
8.0
12.0


R32
Mass %
30.0
33.0
33.0
33.0
33.0
33.0
36.0
36.0


R1234yf
Mass %
48.0
58.0
55.0
52.0
49.0
46.0
56.0
52.0


GWP
—
205
225
225
225
225
225
245
245


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.5
101.6
101.3
101.0
100.8
100.5
101.6
101.2



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
85.9
80.5
82.3
84.1
85.8
87.5
82.0
84.4


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 28







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
15.0
18.0
21.0
42.0
39.0
34.0
37.0
30.0


R32
Mass %
36.0
36.0
36.0
25.0
28.0
31.0
31.0
34.0


R1234yf
Mass %
49.0
46.0
43.0
33.0
33.0
35.0
32.0
36.0


GWP
—
245
245
245
170
191
211
211
231


COP Ratio
% (relative
101.0
100.7
100.5
99.5
99.5
99.8
99.6
99.9



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
86.2
87.9
89.6
92.7
93.4
93.0
94.5
93.0


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 29







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
33.0
36.0
24.0
27.0
30.0
33.0
23.0
26.0


R32
Mass %
34.0
34.0
37.0
37.0
37.0
37.0
40.0
40.0


R1234yf
Mass %
33.0
30.0
39.0
36.0
33.0
30.0
37.0
34.0


GWP
—
231
231
252
251
251
251
272
272


COP Ratio
% (relative
99.8
99.6
100.3
100.1
99.9
99.3
100.4
100.2



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
94.5
96.0
91.9
93.4
95.0
96.5
93.3
94.9


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 30







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
29.0
32.0
19.0
22.0
25.0
28.0
31.0
18.0


R32
Mass %
40.0
40.0
43.0
43.0
43.0
43.0
43.0
46.0


R1234yf
Mass %
31.0
28.0
38.0
35.0
32.0
29.0
26.0
36.0


GWP
—
272
271
292
292
292
292
292
312


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.0
99.8
100.6
100.4
100.2
100.1
99.9
100.7



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
96.4
97.9
93.1
94.7
96.2
97.8
99.3
94.4


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio

























TABLE 31







Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example
Example


Item
Unit
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
























HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
21.0
23.0
26.0
29.0
13.0
16.0
19.0
22.0


R32
Mass %
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
49.0
49.0
49.0
49.0


R1234yf
Mass %
33.0
31.0
28.0
25.0
38.0
35.0
32.0
29.0


GWP
—
312
312
312
312
332
332
332
332


COP Ratio
% (relative
100.5
100.4
100.2
100.0
101.1
100.9
100.7
100.5



to R410A)


Refrigerating
% (relative
96.0
97.0
98.6
100.1
93.5
95.1
96.7
98.3


Capacity
to R410A)


Ratio





















TABLE 32







Item
Unit
Example 151
Example 152





















HFO-1132 (E)
Mass %
25.0
28.0



R32
Mass %
49.0
49.0



R1234yf
Mass %
26.0
23.0



GWP
—
332
332



COP Ratio
% (relative
100.3
100.1




to R410A)



Refrigerating
% (relative
99.8
101.3



Capacity
to R410A)



Ratio










The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments IJ, JN, NE, and EI that connect the following 4 points:


point I (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),


point J (48.5, 18.3, 33.2),


point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and


point E (58.3, 0.0, 41.7),


or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment EI),

    • the line segment IJ is represented by coordinates (0.0236y2−1.7616y+72.0, y, −0.0236y2+0.7616y+28.0),
    • the line segment NE is represented by coordinates (0.012y2−1.9003y+58.3, y, −0.012y2+0.9003y+41.7), and
    • the line segments JN and EI are straight lines, the refrigerant has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.


The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments MM′, M′N, NV, VG, and GM that connect the following 5 points:


point M (52.6, 0.0, 47.4),


point M′ (39.2, 5.0, 55.8),


point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1),


point V (11.0, 18.1, 70.9), and


point G (39.6, 0.0, 60.4),


or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment GM),

    • the line segment MM′ is represented by coordinates (0.132y2−3.34y+52.6, y, −0.132y2+2.34y+47.4),
    • the line segment M′N is represented by coordinates (0.0596y2−2.2541y+48.98, y, −0.0596y2+1.2541y+51.02),
    • the line segment VG is represented by coordinates (0.0123y2−1.8033y+39.6, y, −0.0123y2+0.8033y+60.4), and
    • the line segments NV and GM are straight lines, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 70% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.


The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ON, NU, and UO that connect the following 3 points:


point O (22.6, 36.8, 40.6),


point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and


point U (3.9, 36.7, 59.4),


or on these line segments,

    • the line segment ON is represented by coordinates (0.0072y2−0.6701y+37.512, y, −0.0072y2−0.3299y+62.488),
    • the line segment NU is represented by coordinates (0.0083y2−1.7403y+56.635, y, −0.0083y2+0.7403y+43.365), and
    • the line segment UO is a straight line, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 250 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.


The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments QR, RT, TL, LK, and KQ that connect the following 5 points:


point Q (44.6, 23.0, 32.4),


point R (25.5, 36.8, 37.7),


point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),


point L (28.9, 51.7, 19.4), and


point K (35.6, 36.8, 27.6),


or on these line segments,

    • the line segment QR is represented by coordinates (0.0099y2−1.975y+84.765, y, −0.0099y2+0.975y+15.235),
    • the line segment RT is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874),
    • the line segment LK is represented by coordinates (0.0049y2−0.8842y+61.488, y, −0.0049y2−0.1158y+38.512),
    • the line segment KQ is represented by coordinates (0.0095y2−1.2222y+67.676, y, −0.0095y2+0.2222y+32.324), and
    • the line segment TL is a straight line, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.


The results further indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments PS, ST, and TP that connect the following 3 points:


point P (20.5, 51.7, 27.8),


point S (21.9, 39.7, 38.4), and


point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),


or on these line segments,

    • the line segment PS is represented by coordinates (0.0064y2−0.7103y+40.1, y, −0.0064y2−0.2897y+59.9),
    • the line segment ST is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874), and
    • the line segment TP is a straight line, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.


DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCE NUMERALS


1: Sample cell

2: High-speed camera

3: Xenon lamp

4: Collimating lens

5: Collimating lens

6: Ring filter

Claims
  • 1. (canceled)
  • 2. A composition comprising a refrigerant, the refrigerant comprising HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,
  • 3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the line segments MM′ and M′N are defined as illustrated in FIG. 2 of the drawings.
  • 4-7. (canceled)
  • 8. The composition according to claim 2, for use as a working fluid for a refrigerating machine, wherein the composition further comprises a refrigeration oil.
  • 9. The composition according to claim 2, for use as an alternative refrigerant for R410A.
  • 10. Use of the composition according to claim 2 as an alternative refrigerant for R410A.
  • 11. A refrigerating machine comprising the composition according to claim 2 as a working fluid.
  • 12. A method for operating a refrigerating machine, comprising the step of circulating the composition according to claim 2 as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine.
Priority Claims (1)
Number Date Country Kind
2017-242187 Dec 2017 JP national
Divisions (1)
Number Date Country
Parent 16913639 Jun 2020 US
Child 17887125 US
Continuation in Parts (1)
Number Date Country
Parent 16955683 Jun 2020 US
Child 16913639 US