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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/epa-fractionation

What does 'fractionation' mean for a blend refrigerant?

Blend components leak out at different rates.

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  1. Components of the blend leak at different rates ✔
  2. The blend splits into two cylinders
  3. The oil separates from the refrigerant

Why: Refrigerant blends combine two or more chemicals. When a blend leaks, the components can escape at different rates, so what is left in the system no longer has the original mix.

Huh, didn't know that: EPA lists fractionation under substitute refrigerants and oils in its Core test topics.

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References

Answer: Components of the blend leak at different rates. Refrigerant blends combine two or more chemicals. When a blend leaks, the components can escape at different rates, so what is left in the system no longer has the original mix.

  1. Section 608 Technician Certification Test Topics, US EPA www.epa.gov/section608/section-608-technician-certification-test-topics
    Fractionation problem--tendency of different components of blends to leak at different rates
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Phaseout of Class II Ozone-Depleting Substances, US EPA www.epa.gov/ods-phaseout/phaseout-class-ii-ozone-depleting-substances
    Common refrigerant blends that contain HCFC-22 included R-401A, R-402A, R-408A
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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