Refrigerant compositions for refrigerant compressor systems

Abstract

The present invention discloses a composition comprising difluoromethane (R-32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (R-1234yf) and isobutane (R-600a). A refrigeration system is disclosed, comprising a sealed compressor and a refrigerant composition. The refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (R-1234yf) and isobutane (R-600a).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to refrigerant compositions for use in refrigerant compressors in vapor compression systems. Background Art

[0002] Refrigerants with very low global warming potential (GWP < 150) are needed to meet regulatory requirements for various applications and market segments. Several replacements have been developed to replace conventional high GWP refrigerants, such as R-404A. Many of the low GWP refrigerants proposed for this replacement (such as R-457A) exhibit higher discharge temperatures than the high GWP refrigerants (such as R 404A) they replace. This can limit the effectiveness of the compressor by reducing its operating envelope in vapor compression systems. This can be particularly important for hermetic compressors used in low or medium temperature refrigeration, as many of these models do not employ active discharge temperature control systems, such as liquid or vapor injection. If not regulated, the higher discharge temperatures generated in these applications could potentially shorten compressor life. Without the ability to actively reduce the discharge temperature, the use of these compressors may be limited to applications with higher evaporator temperatures and / or lower condensing temperatures. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In an exemplary embodiment, a composition comprising a refrigerant composition is provided. The refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (R-1234yf), and isobutane (R-600a).

[0004] In another exemplary embodiment, a refrigeration system is provided that includes a hermetic compressor and a refrigerant composition comprising difluoromethane (R-32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (R-1234yf), and isobutane (R-600a).

[0005] In another exemplary embodiment, a method is provided for replacing a first refrigerant composition comprising R-404A, R-457A, R-290, R-454C, or 507A with a second refrigerant composition comprising 70 to 84 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, 15 to 22 weight percent difluoromethane, and 1.0 to 10 weight percent isobutane, wherein the replacement is performed in a refrigeration system comprising a hermetic compressor.

[0006] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of operating a hermetic compressor as part of a refrigeration system is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving a refrigerant composition comprising difluoromethane (R-32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (R-1234yf), and isobutane from the hermetic compressor, and compressing the refrigerant composition from the hermetic compressor. The discharge temperature of the compressor is between 78.0° C. and 102.0° C.

[0007] Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of preferred embodiments illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system according to one embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] definition

[0011] Refrigerant is defined as a heat transfer fluid that undergoes a phase change from liquid to gas and back during a cycle used to transfer heat.

[0012] A refrigeration system is a system (or device) used to produce a heating or cooling effect in a specific space. Heat transfer or refrigeration systems can be mobile or stationary.

[0013] Examples of refrigeration systems are any type of refrigeration system and air conditioning system, including but not limited to stationary heat transfer systems, air conditioners, freezers, refrigerators, heat pumps, water chillers, flooded evaporator chillers, direct expansion chillers, walk-in coolers, mobile or transport refrigeration systems, mobile heat transfer systems, mobile air conditioning units, dehumidifiers, and combinations thereof.

[0014] Refrigeration capacity (also known as cooling capacity) is a term that defines the enthalpy change of the refrigerant in the evaporator per pound of circulating refrigerant, or the amount of heat removed by the refrigerant in the evaporator per unit volume of refrigerant vapor leaving the evaporator (volume capacity). Refrigeration capacity measures the ability of a refrigerant or heat transfer composition to produce refrigeration. Therefore, the higher the capacity, the more cooling is produced. The cooling rate refers to the amount of heat removed by the refrigerant in the evaporator per unit time.

[0015] The coefficient of performance (COP) is the amount of heat removed divided by the energy input required to operate the cycle. The higher the COP, the higher the energy efficiency. COP is positively correlated with the energy efficiency ratio (EER), a rating of the efficiency of a refrigeration or air conditioning unit at specific set internal and external temperatures.

[0016] Temperature glide (sometimes simply referred to as "glide") is the absolute value of the difference between the starting and ending temperatures of a refrigerant phase change process within a refrigerant system's components, excluding any subcooling or superheating. The term can be used to describe the condensation or evaporation of near-azeotropic or non-azeotropic compositions. When referring to the temperature glide of a refrigeration system, air conditioning system, or heat pump system, it is common to provide the average temperature glide, which is the average of the temperature glide in the evaporator and the temperature glide in the condenser.

[0017] The net cooling effect is the amount of heat absorbed per kilogram of refrigerant in the evaporator to produce usable cooling.

[0018] Mass flow rate is the amount of refrigerant (in kilograms) that circulates through a refrigeration system, heat pump system, or air conditioning system in a given period of time.

[0019] As used herein, the term "lubricant" means any material added to a composition or compressor (and in contact with any heat transfer composition used within any heat transfer system) that provides lubricity to the compressor to help prevent component seizure.

[0020] As used herein, a compatibilizer is a compound that improves the solubility of the hydrofluorocarbon of the disclosed composition in a heat transfer system lubricant. In some embodiments, the compatibilizer improves oil return in a compressor. In some embodiments, the composition is used with a system lubricant to reduce the viscosity of the oil-rich phase.

[0021] As used herein, oil return refers to the ability of a heat transfer composition to carry lubricant through a heat transfer system and return it to the compressor. In other words, during use, it is not uncommon for a portion of the compressor lubricant to be carried from the compressor to other parts of the system by the heat transfer composition. In such systems, if the lubricant is not effectively returned to the compressor, the compressor will eventually fail due to lack of lubricity.

[0022] As used herein, "ultraviolet" dyes are defined as UV fluorescent or phosphorescent compositions that absorb light in the ultraviolet or "near" ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Fluorescence produced by UV fluorescent dyes upon exposure to UV light that emits at least some radiation in the wavelength range of 10 nanometers to about 775 nanometers can be detected.

[0023] Flammability is a term used to refer to the ability of a composition to ignite a flame and / or propagate a flame. For refrigerants and other heat transfer compositions, the lower flammable limit ("LFL") refers to the minimum concentration of the heat transfer composition in air that will propagate a flame through a homogeneous mixture of the composition and air under the test conditions specified in ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) E681. The upper flammable limit ("UFL") refers to the maximum concentration of the heat transfer composition in air that will propagate a flame through a homogeneous mixture of the composition and air under the same test conditions. Determining whether a refrigerant compound or mixture is flammable or non-flammable is also done through testing under the conditions of ASTM-E681.

[0024] During a refrigerant leak, the lower boiling point components in the mixture may tend to leak. Therefore, the composition in the system and the vapor leakage may change during the leak period. Therefore, a non-flammable mixture can become flammable in the event of a leak. And in order to be classified as non-flammable by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Engineers), the refrigerant or heat transfer composition as formulated must be non-flammable, also under leak conditions. ASHRAE defines different flammability classifications. Class 1 refrigerants do not spread flames. Class 3 refrigerants have a higher flammability, and Class 2 refrigerants are said to be flammable. Class 2L refrigerants have a lower flammability, with a burning velocity of ≤10 cm / sec.

[0025] The Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a metric used to estimate the relative global warming contribution of emitting one kilogram of a particular greenhouse gas into the atmosphere, compared to emitting one kilogram of carbon dioxide. GWP can be calculated for different time horizons, showing the impact over the atmospheric lifetime of a given gas. A GWP over a 100-year time horizon is generally used as a reference value. For mixtures, a weighted average can be calculated based on the individual GWPs of each component.

[0026] Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) is a number that refers to the amount of ozone depletion caused by a substance. ODP is the ratio of a chemical's impact on ozone compared to the impact of a similar mass of CFC-11 (trichlorofluoromethane). Thus, the ODP of CFC-11 is defined as 1.0. Other CFCs and HCFCs have ODPs ranging from 0.01 to 1.0. HFCs have zero ODP because they do not contain chlorine or other ozone-depleting halogens.

[0027] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "includes," "has," or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a composition, process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such composition, process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0028] The transitional phrase "consisting of" excludes any unspecified elements, steps, or ingredients. If included in a claim, it would exclude protection for materials other than those recited, except for impurities typically associated therewith. When the phrase "consisting of" appears in a clause in the body of a claim, rather than immediately following the preamble, it limits only the elements recited in that clause; other elements are not excluded from the claim as a whole.

[0029] The transition phrase "consisting essentially of is used to define a composition, method, or apparatus that includes materials, steps, features, components, or elements in addition to those disclosed in the document, provided that those additionally included materials, steps, features, components, or elements do not significantly affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. The term "consisting essentially of occupies an intermediate position between "comprising" and "consisting of." Generally, the components of a refrigerant mixture and the refrigerant mixture itself may contain trace amounts (e.g., less than about 0.5% by weight collectively) of impurities and / or by-products (e.g., refrigerant components from the preparation of the refrigerant components or reused from other systems) that do not materially affect the novel and basic characteristics of the refrigerant mixture.

[0030] Where the applicant has defined an invention or a portion thereof using open-ended terms such as "comprising," it should be readily understood that (unless otherwise indicated) the specification should be interpreted as also describing such invention using the terms "consisting essentially of" or "consisting of."

[0031] In addition, the use of "a" or "an" to describe elements and components described herein is used. This is for convenience only and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. The description should be understood to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar to or equivalent to the methods and materials described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the embodiments of the disclosed compositions, suitable methods and materials are described below. Unless citing a specific paragraph, all publications, patent applications, patents and other references mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In the event of a conflict, this specification and the definitions included therein shall prevail. In addition, materials, methods and examples are exemplary only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0033] 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene may also be referred to as HFO-1234yf, HFC-1234yf, or R1234yf. HFO-1234yf may be prepared by methods known in the art, such as by dehydrofluorinating 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245eb) or 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245cb).

[0034] Difluoromethane (HFC-32 or R-32) is commercially available or can be prepared by methods known in the art, such as by dechlorofluorination of dichloromethane.

[0035] Isobutane (R-600a) is commercially available from a number of gas supply houses, or can be produced by any of a number of well-known methods.

[0036] Compositions and Systems

[0037] The present invention provides a low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant composition that exhibits low discharge temperature and high heat capacity. The refrigerant composition is suitable for use in a hermetic compressor used in refrigeration applications.

[0038] In another embodiment, a refrigeration system including a hermetic compressor is provided.

[0039] An embodiment of the refrigeration system 100 is shown in Figure 1 In. Figure 1 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the refrigeration system 100 includes a holding tank 110. The holding tank 110 contains a refrigerant composition and supplies the refrigerant composition to other components of the refrigeration system 100 during operation.

[0040] Refrigerant compositions can be selected from materials with low global warming potential (GWP). In some embodiments, refrigerant compositions show a GWP less than 180, less than 150 and / or less than 130. In some embodiments, refrigerant compositions can be selected to replace refrigerant compositions with high GWP. In some embodiments, refrigerant compositions can be selected to replace refrigerant compositions such as R-404A, R-290, R-454C, R-457A and R-507A. Compared with R-404A, replacement compositions advantageously provide similar or improved characteristics. Similar characteristics may include flammability, discharge temperature and heat transport capacity.

[0041] Suitable refrigerant compositions for replacing R-404A refrigerant may include difluoromethane (R-32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (R-1234yf), and isobutane (R-600a).In some embodiments, the refrigerant composition may be a non-azeotropic refrigerant composition.

[0042] In one embodiment, the refrigeration system 100 can be a direct expansion refrigeration system. During operation of the refrigeration system 100, the refrigerant composition circulates throughout the refrigeration system 100 as part of a heat transfer process. Figure 1 In an example of , the holding tank 110 is operably coupled to the evaporator 120 via an expansion device 125, such as an orifice tube, a capillary tube, a thermal expansion valve, or an electronic expansion valve. The expansion device 125 supplies the refrigerant composition to the evaporator 120. In some embodiments, the holding tank 110 is optional. In such embodiments, the refrigerant is provided directly to the evaporator 120 without a container. In one embodiment, the refrigerant composition is transported between the holding tank 110 and the evaporator 120 via the expansion device 125. In some embodiments, the evaporator 120 can be operated in a low temperature mode. For the purposes described herein, the low temperature evaporator operates between -40°C and -18°C. In some embodiments, the evaporator 120 can be operated in a medium temperature mode. For the purposes described herein, the medium temperature evaporator operates between -20°C and -5°C.

[0043] The evaporator 120 is operably connected to a compressor 140 via a suction line 135. The compressor 140 increases the pressure of the vapor refrigerant entering the compressor 140. In some embodiments, the compressor 140 may be a sealed compressor. In some embodiments, the sealed compressor is a rotary compressor, a scroll compressor, or a reciprocating compressor. In some embodiments, the sealed compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) sealed compressor. In some embodiments, the sealed compressor is a medium back pressure (MBP) sealed compressor. In another embodiment, the sealed compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) reciprocating compressor.

[0044] In one embodiment, the refrigerant composition is a non-azeotropic composition comprising difluoromethane (R-32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (R-1234yf) and isobutane (R-600a). In some embodiments, the discharge temperature of the hermetic compressor is between 78.0°C and 102.0°C, between 80.0°C and 100.0°C, between 81°C and 99.0°C, between 81°C and 97.0°C, between 81.0°C and 85.0°C, between 90°C and 97.0°C, and combinations thereof.

[0045] The compressor 140 is operatively connected to the condenser 160. The condenser 160 receives the pressurized vapor refrigerant and allows the pressurized vapor refrigerant to transfer heat to an external medium and condense into a liquid state.

[0046] The condenser 160 is operatively connected to the receiving tank 110. The liquid refrigerant returns to the receiving tank 110 and is again available to absorb heat by being supplied to the evaporator 120 again.

[0047] In compositions intended to replace conventional high GWP refrigerants, it is desirable that the replacement refrigerant composition exhibit a low GWP and similar or improved refrigerant properties compared to the refrigerant it replaces. In some embodiments, the refrigerant composition is intended to replace R-457A (a mixture containing 18 weight percent HFC-32, 70 weight percent HFO-1234yf, and 12 weight percent HFC-152a (1,1-difluoroethane)), R-454C (a mixture containing 21.5 weight percent HFC-32 and 78.5 weight percent HFO-1234yf), R-404A (a mixture of 44 weight percent HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane), 52 weight percent HFC-143a (1,1,1-trifluoroethane), and 4 weight percent HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane)), R-507A (a mixture containing 50 weight percent HFC-125 and 50 weight percent HFC-143a), or R-290 (propane).

[0048] In some embodiments, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 15 to 22 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 70 to 84 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 to 10 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In some embodiments, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 15 to 21.5 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 70 to 84 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 to 10 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In some embodiments, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 15 to 21 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 70 to 84 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 to 10 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In some embodiments, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 15 to 20 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 70 to 84 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 to 10 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In one embodiment, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 15 to 19 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 76 to 84 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 to 6.0 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In another embodiment, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 16 to 18 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 78 to 83 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 to 4.0 weight percent, or alternatively, 2.0 to 6.0 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.In another embodiment, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 17 wt% to 18 wt%, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 78 wt% to 81 wt%, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 wt% to 4.0 wt%, or alternatively, 3.0 wt% to 5.0 wt%, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

[0049] In one embodiment of the refrigerant composition, isobutane is present in an amount from about 1.0 wt% to about 3.3 wt%. In another embodiment, isobutane is present in an amount from about 2.0 wt% to 3.3 wt%.

[0050] In one embodiment, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 18 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 78 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 4.0 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In another embodiment, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 18 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 79 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 3.0 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In one other embodiment, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 18 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 80 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 2.0 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition. In another embodiment, the refrigerant composition comprises difluoromethane (R-32) in an amount of 18 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) in an amount of 81 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and isobutane (R-600a) in an amount of 1.0 wt %, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

[0051] In particular, any of the compositions in Table A may be used in refrigeration systems including a hermetic compressor.

[0052] Table A

[0053] HFC-32 HFO-1234yf Isobutane 18 72 10 18 73 9 18 74 8.0 18 75 7.0 18 76 6.0 18 77 5.0 18 78 4.0 18 79 3.0 18 80 2.0 18 81 1.0 20 75 5.0 19 76 5.0 18 77 5.0 17 78 5.0 16 79 5.0 15 80 5.0 21.5 73.5 5.0 21 74 5.0 20.5 74.5 5.0 21.5 73.6 4.9 21.5 73.7 4.8 21.5 73.8 4.7 21.5 73.9 4.6 21.5 74.0 4.5 21.5 74.1 4.4 21.5 74.2 4.3 21.5 74.3 4.2 21.5 74.4 4.1 21.5 74.5 4.0

[0054] Refrigerator composition can also comprise one or more optional non-refrigeration agent components, and these one or more optional non-refrigeration agent components are selected from lubricant, dyestuff (comprising UV dye), solubilizing agent, compatibilizer, stabilizing agent, tracer, antiwear agent, extreme pressure agent, corrosion inhibitor and oxidation inhibitor, metal surface energy reducer, metal surface deactivator, free radical scavenger, foam control agent, viscosity index improver, pour point depressant, detergent, viscosity modifier and their mixture.In some embodiments, optional non-refrigeration agent components can be referred to as additive.In fact, many of these optional non-refrigeration agent components are applicable to one or more in these classifications, and can have the quality that can make themselves realize one or more performance characteristics.

[0055] In order to facilitate operation and extend the service life of compressor 140, a lubricant may be included in the refrigerant composition. The solubility and miscibility of the lubricant and the refrigerant composition can improve the performance of the lubricant and extend the service life of compressor 140. In some embodiments, the lubricant may include mineral oil, alkylbenzene, polyol ester, polyalkylene glycol, polyvinyl ether, polycarbonate, perfluoropolyether, organosilicon, silicate, phosphate ester, paraffin, cycloparaffin, poly-alpha-olefin and their combination. In certain embodiments, the lubricant comprises polyol ester or polyvinyl ether. In one embodiment, the lubricant comprises polyol ester. In another embodiment, the lubricant comprises polyvinyl ether.

[0056] The optional non-refrigerant component used with the refrigerant composition can be a stabilizer selected from the group consisting of hindered phenols, thiophosphates, butylated triphenylthiophosphate, organic phosphates, or phosphites, aryl alkyl ethers, terpenes, terpenoids, epoxides, fluorinated epoxides, oxetanes, ascorbic acid, thiols, lactones, sulfides, amines, nitromethane, alkylsilanes, benzophenone derivatives, aryl sulfides, divinyl terephthalic acid, diphenyl terephthalic acid, ionic liquids, and mixtures thereof (meaning mixtures of any stabilizer disclosed in this paragraph).

[0057] The stabilizer may be selected from the group consisting of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT); tocopherol; hydroquinone; tert-butylhydroquinone; monothiophosphates; and dithiophosphates, sold under the trademark 63 is commercially available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals, Basel, Switzerland (hereinafter referred to as "Ciba"); dialkylthiophosphates, each sold under the trademark 353 and 350 is commercially available from Ciba; butylated triphenyl thiophosphate is sold under the trademark 232 is commercially available from Ciba; amine phosphate, sold under the trademark 349 is commercially available from Ciba; hindered phosphite, as 168 was commercially available from Ciba, and tris-(di-tert-butylphenyl) phosphite was commercially available from OPH is commercially available from Ciba; (di-n-octyl phosphite); and isodecyl diphenyl phosphite, sold under the trademark DDPP is commercially available from Ciba; trialkyl phosphates such as trimethyl phosphate, triethyl phosphate, tributyl phosphate, trioctyl phosphate, and tri(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate; triaryl phosphates including triphenyl phosphate, tricresyl phosphate, and trixylene phosphate; and mixed alkyl-aryl phosphates including isopropylphenyl phosphate (IPPP) and bis(tert-butylphenyl)phenyl phosphate (TBPP); butylated triphenyl phosphates such as those sold under the trademark (include 8784); tert-butylated triphenyl phosphate, such as those available under the trademark 620 those commercially available; isopropylated triphenyl phosphate, such as those sold under the trademark 220 and 110 those commercially available; anisole; 1,4-dimethoxybenzene; 1,4-diethoxybenzene; 1,3,5-trimethoxybenzene; myrcene, alloocimene, limonene (particularly d-limonene); retinal; pinene (α or β form); menthol; geraniol; farnesol; farnesene (α or β form); phytol; vitamin A; terpinene; delta-3-carene; terpinolene; phellandrene; fenchene; dimethicone amylene; carotenoids such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and xanthophylls such as zeaxanthin; retinoids such as heparin and isotretinoin; camphane; 1,2-propylene oxide; 1,2-butylene oxide; n-butyl glycidyl ether; trifluoromethyl oxirane; 1,1-bis(trifluoromethyl)oxirane; 3-ethyl-3-hydroxymethyl-oxetane such as OXT-101 (Toagosei Co., Ltd.); 3-ethyl-3-((phenoxy)methyl)-oxetane such as OXT-211 (Toagosei Co., Ltd.); 3-ethyl-3-((2-ethyl-hexyloxy)methyl)-oxetane such as OXT-212 (Toagosei Co., Ltd.); Co., Ltd); ascorbic acid; methanethiol (methyl mercaptan); ethanethiol (ethyl mercaptan); coenzyme A; dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA); citronellol ((R)-2-(4-methylcyclohex-3-enyl)isobutane-2-thiol); cysteine ​​((R)-2-amino-3-sulfonyl-propionic acid); lipoamide (1,2-dithiolane-3-pentanamide); 5,7-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-3-[2,3(or 3,4)-dimethylphenyl]-2(3H)-benzofuranone, sold under the trademark HP-136 was commercially available from Ciba; benzyl phenyl sulfide; diphenyl sulfide; diisopropylamine; distearyl 3,3′-thiodipropionate, sold under the trademark PS 802 (Ciba) was commercially available from Ciba; didodecyl 3,3′-thiopropionate was commercially available under the trademark PS 800 is commercially available from Ciba; di-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl) sebacate is commercially available under the trademark 770 is commercially available from Ciba; poly-(N-hydroxyethyl-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-hydroxy-piperidinyl succinate, sold under the trademark 622LD (Ciba) was commercially available from Ciba; methylbistallowamine; bistallowamine; phenol-α-naphthylamine; bis(dimethylamino)methylsilane (DMAMS); tris(trimethylsilyl)silane (TTMSS); vinyltriethoxysilane; vinyltrimethoxysilane; 2,5-difluorobenzophenone; 2',5'-dihydroxyacetophenone; 2-aminobenzophenone; 2-chlorobenzophenone; benzylphenyl sulfide; diphenyl sulfide; dibenzyl sulfide; ionic liquids; and mixtures and combinations thereof.

[0058] In particular, the optional non-refrigerant component may be a polymerization inhibitor. The polymerization inhibitor may include terpenes or terpenoids, butylated triphenyl thiophosphate, benzophenone and its derivatives, terephthalate esters, phenols, epoxides, and combinations of any of these types. The polymerization inhibitor may include, but is not limited to, myrcene, alloocimene, limonene (particularly d-limonene); retinal; pinene (α or β form); menthol; geraniol; farnesol; farnesene (α or β form); phytol; vitamin A; terpinene (α or β form); δ-3-carene; terpinolene; phellandrene; fenchene; dipentene; carotenoids such as lycopene, β-carotene, and xanthophylls such as zeaxanthin; retinoids such as heparin and isotretinoin; camphane, butylated triphenyl thiophosphate (produced by Ciba under the trademark 232 sold), divinyl terephthalate, diphenyl terephthalate, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), tocopherol, hydroquinone, 1,2-propylene oxide, 1,2-butylene oxide, butylphenyl glycidyl ether, pentylphenyl glycidyl ether, hexylphenyl glycidyl ether, heptylphenyl glycidyl ether, octylphenyl glycidyl ether, nonylphenyl glycidyl ether, decylphenyl glycidyl ether, methylphenyl glycidyl ether, 1,4-glycidylphenyl diether, 4-methoxyphenyl glycidyl ether, naphthyl glycidyl ether, 1,4-diglycidylnaphthyl diether, butylphenyl glycidyl ether, n-butyl glycidyl ether, isobutyl glycidyl ether, hexanediol diglycidyl ether, allyl glycidyl ether, polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether, trifluoromethyl oxirane, 1,1-bis(trifluoromethyl)oxirane, and combinations thereof.

[0059] The optional non-refrigerant component used together with the composition of the present invention can alternatively be a tracer. The tracer can be a single compound or two or more tracer compounds from the same class of compounds or from different classes of compounds. In some embodiments, the tracer is present in the composition at a total concentration of about 1 part per million parts by weight (ppm) to about 5000ppm based on the weight of the overall composition. In other embodiments, the tracer is present at a total concentration of about 10ppm to about 1000ppm. In other embodiments, the tracer is present at a total concentration of about 20ppm to about 500ppm. In other embodiments, the tracer is present at a total concentration of about 25ppm to about 500ppm. In other embodiments, the tracer is present at a total concentration of about 50ppm to about 500ppm. Alternatively, the tracer is present at a total concentration of about 100ppm to about 300ppm.

[0060] The tracer may be selected from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), deuterated hydrofluorocarbons, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), chlorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, fluoroethers, brominated compounds, iodinated compounds, alcohols, aldehydes and ketones, nitrous oxide, and combinations thereof. Alternatively, the tracer may be selected from the group consisting of trifluoromethane (HFC-23), 1,1,1,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234ze, cis or trans), 3,3,3-trifluoropropene (HFO-1243zf), 1,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropene (HFO-1225ye, E or Z isomer), dichlorodifluoromethane (CFC-12), dichloromonofluoromethane (HCFC-22), chloromethane (R-40), chlorofluoromethane (HCFC-31), fluoroethane (HFC-161), 1,1,1-trifluoroethane (HFC-143a ... ), chloropentafluoroethane (CFC-115), 1,2-dichloro-1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (CFC-114), 1,1-dichloro-1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (CFC-114a), 2-chloro-1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HCFC-124), pentafluoroethane (HFC-125), 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134), 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a), 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane (HFC-236fa), 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane ( HFC-227ea), 1,1,1,2,2,3,3-heptafluoropropane (HFC-227ea), 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245fa), 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245cb), 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245eb), 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoropropane (HFC-254cb), 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoropropane (HFC-254eb), 1,1,1-trifluoropropane (HFC-263fb), 1,1-difluoro-2-chloroethylene (HCFC-1 122), 2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethylene (CFC-1113), 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane (HFC-365mfc), 1,1,1,2,3,4,4,5,5,5-decafluoropentane (HFC-43-10mee), 1,1,1,2,2,3,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,7-tetradecafluoroheptane, hexafluorobutadiene, 3,3,3-trifluoropropyne, trifluoroiodomethane, deuterated hydrocarbons, deuterated hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, fluoroethers, brominated compounds, iodinated compounds, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, nitrous oxide (NO), and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the tracer is a blend containing two or more hydrofluorocarbons, or a combination of a hydrofluorocarbon and one or more perfluorocarbons.In other embodiments, the tracer is a blend of at least one CFC and at least one HCFC, HFC, or PFC.

[0061] Tracers can be added to the compositions of the present invention in predetermined amounts to allow for detection of any dilution, contamination, or other alterations to the composition. Additionally, tracers can allow for detection of products that infringe existing patents by distinguishing the patent owner's product from competing, infringing products. Furthermore, in one embodiment, tracer compounds can allow for detection of the manufacturing process by which a product is prepared.

[0062] In some embodiments, an optional surge tank or accumulator 150 may be inserted between the evaporator 120 and the compressor 140 to prevent liquid refrigerant and / or lubricant from entering the compressor 140. The surge tank 150, if present, may return any accumulated liquid to the evaporator 120.

[0063] In an alternative embodiment, the refrigeration system may be a flooded evaporator refrigeration system 200 . Figure 2 A flooded evaporator refrigeration system 200 is shown. Figure 2 In the example of , the elements of the system are the same as those described above for direct expansion refrigeration system 100, except that capillary tube 125 is absent and an optional pump 225 may be present to facilitate transfer of refrigerant from holding tank 110 to flooded evaporator 220. Surge tank 150, if present, may return any accumulated liquid to holding tank 110 to be provided again to evaporator 220. An expansion valve 270 is also included in the operable connection from condenser 160 to holding tank 110.

[0064] The performance of the refrigerant compositions of the present invention compared with R-457A, R-454C, R-404A and other refrigerants are given in Tables 1 to 6 below.

[0065] Example

[0066] Example 1

[0067] Refrigeration performance

[0068] The refrigeration performance of the compositions of the present invention was compared with that of R-404A (a mixture of 44 wt% HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane), 52 wt% HFC-143a (1,1,1-trifluoroethane), and 4 wt% HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane)), R-290 (propane), R-454C (a mixture containing 21.5 wt% HFC-32 and 78.5 wt% HFO-1234yf), R-457A (a mixture containing 18 wt% HFC-32, 70 wt% HFO-1234yf, and 12 wt% HFC-152a (1,1-difluoroethane)), and R-507A (a mixture containing 50 wt% HFC-125 and 50 wt% HFC-143a). Performance was measured under low and medium temperature refrigeration conditions.

[0069] Table 1

[0070] Characteristics of conventional refrigerants - low temperature refrigeration

[0071] (Average 40°C condenser, average -35°C evaporator, -15°C return gas temperature, 0.7 compressor efficiency, 0.1m3 / min compressor displacement, 1 ton cooling capacity)

[0072]

[0073] Table 2

[0074] Characteristics of conventional refrigerants - medium temperature refrigeration

[0075] (Average 40℃ condenser, average -7℃ evaporator, 18℃ return gas temperature, 0.7 compressor efficiency, 0.1m 3 / min compressor displacement, 1 ton of cooling capacity)

[0076]

[0077] Table 3

[0078] R-32 / R-1234YF / R-600A Combination - Low Temperature Refrigeration

[0079] (Average 40℃ condenser, average -35℃ evaporator, -15℃ return gas temperature, 0.7 compressor efficiency, 0.1m 3 / min compressor displacement, 1 ton of cooling capacity)

[0080]

[0081]

[0082]

[0083] Table 4

[0084] R-32 / R-1234YF / R-600A Combination - Medium Temperature Refrigeration

[0085] (Average 40℃ condenser, average -7℃ evaporator, 18℃ return gas temperature, 0.7 compressor efficiency, 0.1m 3 / min compressor displacement, 1 ton of cooling capacity)

[0086]

[0087]

[0088]

[0089] The results show that the compositions of the present invention exhibit lower compressor discharge temperatures than R-454C and R-457A. They also have comparable or higher capacity and energy efficiency (COP) than existing refrigerants, and in particular R-457A.

[0090] Example 2

[0091] Flammability Classification: Vapor Leak Analysis and Flammability Testing

[0092] Certain compositions of the present invention were evaluated under vapor leak conditions as described in ASHRAE Standard 34-2019, "Design and Safety Classification of Refrigerants," to determine whether they met ASHRAE Class 2L (less flammable) or Class 2 (flammable) requirements. Per the standard, a nominal formulation is developed and then representative manufacturing tolerances are assigned because the exact formulation is not manufactured in commercial practice. The manufacturing tolerances selected for this analysis were as follows: ±2 wt% for R-32, ±2 wt% for R-1234yf, and +0 / -0.5 wt% for R-600a, or ±1 wt% for R-32, ±1 wt% for R-1234yf, and +0 / -0.5 wt% for R-600a. The worst case flammability formulations (WCFs) were selected, which in these cases represent the highest burn velocity (S) that can be produced based on manufacturing tolerances. u) formulation. The WCF was then subjected to refrigerant vapor leakage modeling using NIST RefLeak 6.0 under worst-case conditions for several ASHRAE Standard 34 leak scenarios to determine the worst-case flammability classification (WCFF), where the highest concentrations of the higher burning velocity components (R-600a and R-32) were observed in either the refrigerant liquid or vapor phase. For the compositions of the present invention, the WCFF was determined to occur during the "leakage under storage / transport" condition. When the cylinder was filled to 90% full at a temperature of 54.4°C, and when the pressure in the cylinder was close to atmospheric pressure, the WCFF was found to be in the vapor phase at a bubble point temperature of +10°C. The WCFF compositions were then tested using a vertical tube burning velocity apparatus. Compositions that produced a burning velocity of ≤10 cm / s were expected to fall into the A2L safety group, while compositions that produced a burning velocity of >10 cm / s were expected to fall into the A2 safety group. The results are shown in Table 5.

[0093] Table 5

[0094] Flammability results

[0095]

[0096] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, various modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present invention without departing from the substantive scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed as the best contemplated mode of carrying out the present invention, but that the present invention encompasses all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0097] Additional Implementation Plans

[0098] Embodiment A1 : A composition comprising a refrigerant consisting essentially of about 15 wt% to 22 wt% difluoromethane, about 70 wt% to 84 wt% 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 1.0 wt% to 10 wt% isobutane.

[0099] Embodiment A2. The composition of Embodiment A1, wherein the refrigerant consists essentially of about 15 wt% to 21.5 wt% difluoromethane, about 70 wt% to 84 wt% 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 1.0 wt% to 10 wt% isobutane.

[0100] Embodiment A3. The composition of Embodiment A1 or A2, wherein the refrigerant consists essentially of about 15 wt% to 21 wt% difluoromethane, about 70 wt% to 84 wt% 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 1.0 wt% to 10 wt% isobutane.

[0101] Embodiment A4: The composition of any of Embodiments A1 to A3, wherein the refrigerant consists essentially of about 15 wt% to 20 wt% difluoromethane, about 70 wt% to 84 wt% 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 1.0 wt% to 10 wt% isobutane.

[0102] Embodiment A5. The composition of any of Embodiments A1 or A4, wherein the refrigerant comprises about 15 to 19 weight percent difluoromethane, about 76 to 84 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 1.0 to 6.0 weight percent isobutane.

[0103] Embodiment A6: A composition according to any of Embodiments A1 or A5, wherein the refrigerant consists essentially of about 18 wt% to 21.5 wt% difluoromethane, about 76 wt% to 84 wt% 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 1.0 wt% to 5.0 wt% isobutane.

[0104] Embodiment A7. The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A5, wherein the refrigerant consists essentially of about 17 to 18 weight percent difluoromethane, about 78 to 81 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 1.0 to 4.0 weight percent isobutane.

[0105] Embodiment A8: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A7, wherein the isobutane is present in an amount from 3.0 wt% to 5.0 wt% based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

[0106] Embodiment A9: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A8, wherein the isobutane is present in an amount from 4.0 wt% to 5.0 wt% based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

[0107] Embodiment A10. The composition of any of Embodiments A1 to A9, wherein the refrigerant composition consists essentially of about 20 wt% to 22 wt% difluoromethane, about 73 wt% to about 76 wt% 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 4.0 wt% to 5.0 wt% isobutane.

[0108] Embodiment A11. The composition of any of Embodiments A1 to A10, wherein the refrigerant composition consists essentially of about 21.5 weight percent difluoromethane, about 73 weight percent to about 75 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and about 4.0 weight percent to 5.0 weight percent isobutane.

[0109] Embodiment A12: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A11, wherein the difluoromethane (R-32) is present in an amount of 18 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, the 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) is present in an amount of 80 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and the isobutane is present in an amount of 2.0 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

[0110] Embodiment A13. The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A11, wherein the difluoromethane (R-32) is present in an amount of 17 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, the 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf) is present in an amount of 81 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition, and the isobutane is present in an amount of 2.0 weight percent, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

[0111] Embodiment A14: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A13, further comprising a non-refrigerant compound in an amount from 0.01 wt% to 49 wt%, based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

[0112] Embodiment A15: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A14, wherein the non-refrigerant compound comprises a lubricant selected from the group consisting of mineral oils, alkylbenzenes, polyol esters, polyalkylene glycols, polyethylene ethers, polycarbonates, perfluoropolyethers, silicones, silicates, phosphates, paraffins, cycloalkanes, poly-alpha-olefins, and combinations thereof.

[0113] Embodiment A16: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A15, wherein the non-refrigerant compound comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of dyes (including UV dyes), solubilizers, compatibilizers, stabilizers, tracers, antiwear agents, extreme pressure agents, corrosion and oxidation inhibitors, metal surface energy reducers, metal surface deactivators, free radical scavengers, foam control agents, viscosity index improvers, pour point depressants, detergents, viscosity modifiers, and mixtures thereof.

[0114] Embodiment A17: A composition according to any of Embodiments A1 to A16, wherein the non-refrigerant compound comprises at least one stabilizer selected from the group consisting of hindered phenols, thiophosphates, butylated triphenylthiophosphate, organic phosphates, or phosphites, aryl alkyl ethers, terpenes, terpenoids, epoxides, fluorinated epoxides, oxetanes, ascorbic acid, thiols, lactones, sulfides, amines, nitromethane, alkyl silanes, benzophenone derivatives, aryl sulfides, divinyl terephthalic acid, diphenyl terephthalic acid, ionic liquids, and mixtures thereof.

[0115] Embodiment A18: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A17, wherein the refrigerant composition has a flame spread of less than 10 cm / s.

[0116] Embodiment A19: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A18, wherein the refrigerant would be classified by ASHRAE as 2L flammability.

[0117] Embodiment A20: The composition of any one of Embodiments A1 to A19 wherein the isobutane is present in an amount from about 2.0% to 3.3% by weight.

[0118] Embodiment B1: A refrigeration system, comprising:

[0119] sealed compressors;

[0120] and a refrigerant composition;

[0121] wherein the refrigerant composition comprises the composition according to any one of embodiments A1 to A20.

[0122] Embodiment B2: The refrigeration system of Embodiment B1, wherein the hermetic compressor is a rotary, scroll, or reciprocating compressor.

[0123] Embodiment B3: The refrigeration system of Embodiment B1 or B2, wherein the hermetic compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) or medium back pressure (MBP) hermetic compressor.

[0124] Embodiment B4: The refrigeration system of any one of Embodiments B1 to B3, wherein the hermetic compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) reciprocating compressor.

[0125] Embodiment B5: The refrigeration system of any one of Embodiments B1 to B4, further comprising an evaporator, wherein the average evaporator temperature is less than -5°C.

[0126] Embodiment B6: The refrigeration system of any one of Embodiments B1 to B5, wherein the compressor discharge temperature is lower than that of R-457A.

[0127] Embodiment B7: The refrigeration system of any of Embodiments B1 to B5, wherein the compressor discharge temperature is lower than the compressor discharge temperature of R-454C.

[0128] Embodiment C1: A method of replacing a first refrigerant composition comprising R-404A, R-457A, R-290, or R-454C with a second refrigerant composition comprising a composition according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A20, wherein the replacement is performed in a refrigeration system isobutane comprising a hermetic compressor.

[0129] Embodiment C2: The method of Embodiment C1, wherein the hermetic compressor is a rotary, scroll, or reciprocating compressor.

[0130] Embodiment C3: The method of Embodiment C1 or C2, wherein the hermetic compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) or medium back pressure (MBP) hermetic compressor.

[0131] Embodiment C4: The method of any one of Embodiments C1 to C3, wherein the hermetic compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) reciprocating compressor.

[0132] Embodiment C5: The method of any one of Embodiments C1 to C4, wherein the compressor discharge temperature is lower than that of R-457A.

[0133] Embodiment C6: The method of any one of Embodiments C1 to C4, wherein the compressor discharge temperature is lower than the compressor discharge temperature of R-454C.

[0134] Embodiment D1: A method of operating a hermetic compressor as part of a refrigeration system, the method comprising the steps of:

[0135] receiving a refrigerant composition comprising a composition according to any one of Embodiments A1 to A20 from a hermetic compressor;

[0136] compressing the refrigerant composition by a sealed compressor;

[0137] The discharge temperature of the compressor is between 80.0°C and 100.0°C.

[0138] Embodiment D2: The method of embodiment D1, wherein the hermetic compressor is a rotary, scroll, or reciprocating compressor.

[0139] Embodiment D3: The method of any one of Embodiments D1 or D2, wherein the hermetic compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) or medium back pressure (MBP) hermetic compressor.

[0140] Embodiment D4: The method of any one of Embodiments D1 to D3, wherein the hermetic compressor is a low back pressure (LBP) reciprocating compressor.

[0141] Embodiment D5: The method of any one of Embodiments D1 to D4, wherein the hermetic compressor receives the refrigerant composition from an evaporator having an average evaporator temperature between -40°C and -5°C.

[0142] Embodiment D6: The method of any one of Embodiments D1 to D5, wherein the hermetic compressor receives the refrigerant composition from an evaporator having an average evaporator temperature between -40°C and -18°C.

[0143] Embodiment D7: The method of any one of Embodiments D1 to D6, wherein the hermetic compressor receives the refrigerant composition from an evaporator having an average evaporator temperature between -20°C and -5°C.

Claims

1. A composition comprising a refrigerant consisting of 15 to 19 weight % of difluoromethane, 76 to 84 weight % of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and 1.0 to 6 weight % of isobutane.

2. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the refrigerant consists of 16 to 18 weight percent difluoromethane, 78 to 83 weight percent 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and 1.0 to 4.0 weight percent isobutane; or The refrigerant consists of 17 to 18 wt% of difluoromethane, 78 to 81 wt% of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene, and 1.0 to 4.0 wt% of isobutane.

3. The composition of claim 1, further comprising a non-refrigerant compound in an amount of 0.01 wt% to 49 wt% based on the weight of the composition.

4. The composition of claim 3, wherein the non-refrigerant compound comprises a lubricant selected from the group consisting of mineral oil, alkylbenzenes, polyol esters, polyalkylene glycols, polyethylene ethers, polycarbonates, perfluoropolyethers, silicones, silicates, phosphates, paraffins, cycloalkanes, poly-alpha-olefins, and combinations thereof.

5. A refrigeration system, comprising: sealed compressors; and a refrigerant composition; The refrigerant composition comprises the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The refrigeration system of claim 5, further comprising a non-refrigerant compound in an amount of 0.01 wt% to 49 wt% based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

7. The refrigeration system of claim 6, wherein the non-refrigerant compound comprises a lubricant selected from the group consisting of mineral oil, alkylbenzenes, polyol esters, polyalkylene glycols, polyethylene ethers, polycarbonates, perfluoropolyethers, silicones, silicates, phosphate esters, paraffins, cycloalkanes, polyalphaolefins, and combinations thereof.

8. A method of replacing a first refrigerant composition comprising R-404A, R-457A, R-290 or R-454C with a second refrigerant composition comprising a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the replacement is carried out in a refrigeration system comprising a hermetic compressor.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the second refrigerant composition further comprises a non-refrigerant compound in an amount of 0.01 wt% to 50 wt% based on the weight of the refrigerant composition.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the non-refrigerant compound comprises a lubricant selected from the group consisting of mineral oil, alkylbenzenes, polyol esters, polyalkylene glycols, polyethylene ethers, polycarbonates, perfluoropolyethers, silicones, silicates, phosphates, paraffins, cycloalkanes, polyalphaolefins, and combinations thereof.

11. A method of operating a hermetic compressor as part of a refrigeration system, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a refrigerant composition comprising the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 2 by a hermetic compressor; compressing the refrigerant composition by the sealed compressor; The discharge temperature of the sealed compressor is between 80.0°C and 100.0°C.

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