R-143a
C₂H₃F₃R-143a (1,1,1-trifluoroethane, HFC-143a) is a hydrofluorocarbon primarily used as a component in refrigerant blends rather than as a standalone refrigerant. R-143a is a key component of R-404A (52%), R-507A (50%), and R-452A (30%), contributing to the thermodynamic properties of these low-temperature refrigerant blends. With a high GWP of 4,470, R-143a-containing blends are subject to stringent phase-down regulations. R-143a is classified as A2L due to mild flammability, though when blended with non-flammable components, the resulting mixtures are typically non-flammable. Understanding R-143a properties is important for technicians working with common commercial refrigeration blends and for leak detection system calibration.
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Key Information
Essential safety and exposure information for R-143a
Health Effects
May cause cardiac sensitization at high concentrations. Vapor can displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation in confined spaces.
Common Sources
- Component in R-404A
- R-507A blends
- commercial refrigeration systems
Exposure Limits
- WEEL
- 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA)
- No OSHA/NIOSH limit
- No OSHA/NIOSH limit
- Simple asphyxiant hazard
- Simple asphyxiant hazard
Regulatory Status
- EPA Classification
- HFC (non-ODS)
- ASHRAE Safety Group
- A2L (low toxicity, mildly flammable)
- GWP (AR5)
- 4,470
- ODP
- 0
- Primary Use
- Component in R-404A, R-507A, R-452A blends
- AIM Act
- Blends containing R-143a subject to phase-down
Detection Requirements
- Sensor Technology
- Infrared (NDIR)
- Detection Range
- 0-1,000 ppm as component, 0-5,000 ppm in blends
- Response Time
- <30 seconds (T90)
- Calibration Frequency
- Annual recommended
- Blend Detection
- Usually detected as part of R-404A, R-507A, or R-452A
Detection Solutions Coming Soon
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