[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 227 (Monday, November 25, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 64765-64772]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-25412]
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 82
[EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118; FRL-10002-51-OAR]
RIN 2060-AG12
Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Determination 35 for
Significant New Alternatives Policy Program
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Determination of acceptability.
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SUMMARY: This determination of acceptability expands the list of
acceptable substitutes pursuant to the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency's (EPA) Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program. This
action lists as acceptable additional substitutes for use in the
refrigeration and air conditioning sector.
DATES: This determination is applicable on November 25, 2019.
ADDRESSES: The EPA established a docket for this action under Docket ID
No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 (continuation of Air Docket A-91-42). All
electronic documents in the docket are listed in the index at
www.regulations.gov. Although listed in the index, some information is
not publicly available, i.e., Confidential Business Information (CBI)
or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute.
Publicly available docket materials are available either electronically
at www.regulations.gov or in hard copy at the EPA Air Docket (Nos. A-
91-42 and EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118), EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), William J.
Clinton West, Room 3334, 1301 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
20460. The Public Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number
for the Public Reading Room is (202) 566-1744, and the telephone number
for the Air Docket is (202) 566-1742.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gerald Wozniak by telephone at (202)
343-9624, by email at [email protected], or by mail at U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Mail Code 6205T, 1200 Pennsylvania
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460. Overnight or courier deliveries should
be sent to the office location at 1201 Constitution Avenue NW,
Washington, DC 20004.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
[[Page 64766]]
Table of Contents
I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes: Refrigeration and Air
Conditioning
A. R-1224yd(Z)
B. R-407H
C. R-448A
D. R-449A
E. R-449B
F. R-453A
II. Clarification of Refrigerated Transport--Refrigerated Trucks and
Trailers End-Use Category
Appendix A: Summary of Decisions for New Acceptable Substitutes
I. Listing of New Acceptable Substitutes: Refrigeration and Air
Conditioning
This action list as acceptable additional substitutes for use in
several end-uses in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector.
R-1224yd(Z) in centrifugal and positive displacement
chillers and industrial process refrigeration (new and retrofit);
R-407H in multiple refrigeration and air conditioning end-
uses;
R-448A in ice skating rinks (new equipment);
R-449A in ice skating rinks (new equipment);
R-449B in ice skating rinks (new equipment); and
R-453A in refrigerated transport (new and retrofit).
EPA's review of certain substitutes listed in this document is
pending for other uses. Listing in the end-uses and applications in
this document does not prejudge EPA's listings of these substitutes for
other end-uses. The substitutes being added through this document to
the acceptable lists for specific end-uses have a similar or lower risk
than other substitutes already listed as acceptable in those end-uses.
However, certain substitutes may have a higher overall risk than
certain other substitutes already listed as acceptable or acceptable
subject to restrictions. In such cases, those already-listed
alternatives have not yet prove feasible in those specific end-uses.
For additional information on SNAP, visit the SNAP portion of EPA's
Ozone Layer Protection website at: www.epa.gov/snap. Copies of the full
lists of acceptable substitutes for ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in
all industrial sectors are available at www.epa.gov/snap/substitutes-sector. For more information on the Agency's process for administering
the SNAP program or criteria for evaluation of substitutes, refer to
the initial SNAP rulemaking published March 18, 1994 (59 FR 13044),
codified at 40 CFR part 82, subpart G. SNAP decisions and the
appropriate Federal Register citations are found at: www.epa.gov/snap/snap-regulations. Substitutes listed as unacceptable; acceptable,
subject to narrowed use limits; or acceptable, subject to use
conditions are also listed in the appendices to 40 CFR part 82, subpart
G.
The sections below discuss each substitute listing in detail.
Appendix A contains tables summarizing each listing decision in this
action. The statements in the ``Further Information'' column in the
tables provide additional information but these are not legally binding
under section 612 of the Clean Air Act (CAA). Although you are not
required to follow recommendations in the ``Further Information''
column of the table to use a substitute consistent with section 612 of
the CAA, some of these statements may refer to obligations that are
enforceable or binding under federal or state programs other than the
SNAP program. The identification of other enforceable or binding
requirements should not be construed as a comprehensive list of such
obligations. In many instances, the information simply refers to
standard operating practices in existing industry standards and/or
building codes. When using these substitutes in the identified end-use,
EPA strongly encourages you to apply the information in the ``Further
Information'' column. Many of these recommendations, if adopted, would
not require significant changes to existing operating practices.
You can find submissions to EPA for the substitutes listed in this
document, as well as other materials supporting the decisions in this
action, in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 at www.regulations.gov.
A. R-1224yd(Z)
EPA's decision: EPA finds R-1224yd(Z) acceptable as a substitute
for use in:
Centrifugal chillers (new and retrofit equipment)
Positive displacement chillers (new and retrofit equipment)
Industrial process refrigeration (new and retrofit equipment)
R-1224yd(Z), marketed under the trade name AMOLEATM yd,
is also known as (Z)-1-chloro-2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene or HCFO-
1224yd(Z) (Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number [CAS Reg. No.]
111512-60-8).
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Materials for
Notice 35 Listing of R-1224yd(Z) in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.
SNAP Submission Received May 12, 2017.'' EPA performed assessments to
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. These
assessments are available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118:
``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Centrifugal and Positive
Displacement Chillers. Substitute: R-1224yd(Z)''
``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Industrial Process
Refrigeration. Substitute: R-1224yd(Z)''
Environmental information: The submitter indicates that according
to the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
(AIST) of Japan R-1224yd(Z) has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of
approximately 0.00012 and a 100-year integrated global warming
potential (GWP) \1\ of about 1.\2\ R-1224yd(Z) is a very short-lived
substance with an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 20 days.\3\ The
ODP of R-1224yd(Z) is significantly less than the ODPs for the ODS
subject to the phase out of production and consumption under
regulations issued under sections 601-607 of the CAA and consistent
with Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.
Under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) defining volatile organic
compounds (VOC) for the purpose of addressing the development of state
implementation plans (SIPs) to attain and maintain the National Ambient
Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), R-1224yd(Z) would be considered a VOC.
That definition provides that ``any compound of carbon'' which
``participates in atmospheric photochemical reactions'' is considered a
VOC unless expressly excluded in that provision based on a
determination of ``negligible photochemical reactivity.'' Knowingly
venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is limited by the venting
prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified at 40 CFR
82.154(a)(1). This substitute is subject to a Toxic Substance Control
Act (TSCA) section 5(e) Consent Order and any subsequent TSCA section
5(a)(2) Significant New Use Rule (SNUR).
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\1\ Unless otherwise stated, all GWPs in this document are 100-
year values from: IPCC, 2007: Climate Change 2007: The Physical
Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth
Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
[Solomon, S., Qin, D., Manning, M., Chen, Z., Marquis, M., Averyt,
K. B., Tignor M., and Miller, H. L. (eds.)]. Cambridge University
Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA. This
document is accessible at www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/ar4/wg1/
en/contents.html.
\2\ AIST
\3\ AIST
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[[Page 64767]]
Flammability information: R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. The substitute could
cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a confined space.
These potential health effects are common to many refrigerants.
The Workplace Environmental Exposure Limit (WEEL) committee of the
Occupational Alliance for Risk Science (OARS) recommends a WEEL for the
workplace of 1,000 ppm on an eight-hour time-weighted average (8-hr
TWA) for R-1224yd(Z). EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet
the WEEL and address potential health risks by following requirements
and recommendations in the manufacturer's safety data sheet (SDS), in
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 15, and other safety precautions common to
the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in these end-uses: R-1224yd(Z) has
an ODP of 0.00012, comparable to or less than other listed substitutes
in these end-uses, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.\4\
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\4\ Unless otherwise stated, all ODPs in this document are from
EPA's regulations at appendix A to subpart A of 40 CFR part 82.
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For centrifugal and positive displacement chillers, R-1224yd(Z)'s
GWP of about 1 is comparable to or lower than that of other acceptable
substitutes such as, for new chillers, ammonia absorption, carbon
dioxide (CO2), and hydrofluoroolefin (HFO)-1336mzz(Z), and
for new and retrofit chillers, R-450A and R-513A, with GWPs ranging
from 0 to 630.
For industrial process refrigeration, R-1224yd(Z)'s GWP of about 1
is comparable to or lower than that of other acceptable substitutes
such as, for new equipment, ammonia absorption, and for new and
retrofit equipment, CO2, R-450A, R-513A and
hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-23, with GWPs ranging from 0 to 14,800.
Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the
same end-uses. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with
the OARS WEEL, ASHRAE 15, and other industry standards, recommendations
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
EPA finds R-1224yd(Z) acceptable in the end-uses listed above
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health
risk than other available substitutes in the centrifugal and positive
displacement chillers and industrial process refrigeration end-uses.
B. R-407H
EPA's decision: EPA finds R-407H acceptable as a substitute for use
in:
Retail food refrigeration--supermarket systems (new and
retrofit equipment)
Retail food refrigeration--refrigerated food processing and
dispensing equipment (new and retrofit equipment)
Refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers \5\
(new and retrofit equipment)
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\5\ See Section II for clarification of this end-use.
R-407H, marketed under the trade name D407, is a weighted blend of
52.5 percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane
(CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2); 32.5 percent HFC-32, which is also known as
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); and 15 percent HFC-125, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6).
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for
Notice 33 Listing of R-407H in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. SNAP
Submission Received January 26, 2017.'' EPA performed assessments to
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. These
assessments are available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118:
``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Retail Food Refrigeration
Substitute: R-407H''
``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Refrigerated Transport
Substitute: R-407H''
EPA previously listed R-407H as an acceptable refrigerant in retail
food refrigeration--remote condensing units (July 21, 2017, 82 FR
33809).
Environmental information: R-407H has an ODP of zero. Its
components, HFC-134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125, have GWPs of 1,430; 675; and
3,500, respectively. If these values are weighted by mass percentage,
then R-407H has a GWP of about 1,500. The components of R-407H are
excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR
51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain
NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is limited
by the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified
at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
Flammability information: R-407H, as formulated and even
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many
refrigerants.
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has established
WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125,
the components of R-407H. The manufacturer of R-407H recommends an
acceptable exposure limit (AEL) of 1,000 ppm on an 8-hr TWA for the
blend. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet each of the AIHA
WEELs and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential health risks by
following requirements and recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS,
in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common to the refrigeration
and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in these end-uses: R-407H has an
ODP of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes
in these end-uses, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
R-407H's GWP of 1,500 is lower than or comparable to that of
acceptable substitutes for retail food refrigeration--refrigerated food
processing and dispensing equipment (new and retrofit), such as a
number of HFC blends with GWPs in the range of 1,500 to 1,700. The GWP
of R-407H is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for
retail food refrigeration--refrigerated food processing and dispensing
equipment (new and retrofit), including CO2, R-450A, and R-
513A with GWPs ranging from one to 630.
R-407H's GWP of 1,500 is lower than or comparable to that of
acceptable substitutes for retail food refrigeration--supermarket
systems (new and retrofit), such as a number of HFC blends with GWPs in
the range of 1,500 to 2,630. The GWP of R-407H is higher than the GWPs
of other acceptable substitutes for retail food refrigeration--
supermarket systems (new and retrofit), including
[[Page 64768]]
CO2, R-450A, and R-513A with GWPs ranging from one to 630.
R-407H's GWP of 1,500 is lower than or comparable to that of
acceptable substitutes for refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks
and trailers such as R-404A, R-507A, and a number of HFC refrigerant
blends with GWPs in the range of 1,500 to 3,990. R-407H's GWP is higher
than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for refrigerated
transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers, including ammonia
absorption, CO2, R-450A, and R-513A with GWPs ranging from
zero to 630. Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower
than flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in
the same end-uses. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent
with the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards,
recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions
common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
EPA finds R-407H acceptable in the end-uses listed above because it
does not pose greater overall environmental and human health risk than
other available substitutes in the same end-uses.
C. R-448A
EPA's decision: EPA finds R-448A acceptable as a substitute for use
in:
Ice skating rinks (new equipment)
R-448A, marketed under the trade name Solstice[supreg] N-40, is a
weighted blend of 26 percent HFC-32, which is also known as
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); 26 percent HFC-125, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); 21
percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2); 20 percent HFO-1234yf, which is also known as
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No 754-12-1); and seven percent
HFO-1234ze(E), which is also known as trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-
ene (CAS Reg. No. 29118-24-9).You may find the redacted submission in
Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 at www.regulations.gov under the name,
``Supporting Documentation for Notice 30 Listing of R-448A (N-40) in
Certain Refrigeration and Air Conditioning End-Uses Submission Received
May 29, 2014.'' EPA performed an assessment to examine the health and
environmental risks of this substitute. This assessment is available in
Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Ice Skating
Rinks (New Equipment) Substitute: R-448A.''
EPA previously listed R-448A as an acceptable refrigerant in a
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including
retrofit use in ice skating rinks (e.g., July 16, 2015, 80 FR 42053;
October 11, 2016, 81 FR 70029; July 21, 2017, 82 FR 33809; October 4,
2018, 83 FR 50026).
Environmental information: R-448A has an ODP of zero. Its
components, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, HFO-1234yf, and HFO-1234ze(E)
have GWPs of 675; 3,500; 1,430; one to four; 6 7 and one to
six; \8\ respectively. If these values are weighted by mass percentage,
then R-448A has a GWP of about 1,390. The components of R-448A are
excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR
51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain
the NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is
limited by the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA,
codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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\6\ Hodnebrog [Oslash]., Etminan, M., Fuglestvedt, J.S.,
Marston, G., Myhre, G., Nielsen, C.J., Shine, K.P., Wallington,
T.J.: Global Warming Potentials and Radiative Efficiencies of
Halocarbons and Related Compounds: A Comprehensive Review, Reviews
of Geophysics, 51, 300-378, doi:10.1002/rog.20013, 2013
\7\ Nielsen, O. J., Javadi, M. S., Sulbaek Andersen, M. P.,
Hurley, M. D., Wallington, T. J., Singh, R. Atmospheric chemistry of
CF3CF=CH2: Kinetics and mechanisms of gas-
phase reactions with Cl atoms, OH radicals, and O3.
Chemical Physics Letters 439, 18-22, 2007.
\8\ Hodnebrog et al., 2013 and Atmospheric chemistry of trans-
CF3CH=CHF: products and mechanisms of hydroxyl radical and chlorine
atom initiated oxidation'', M.S. Javadi, R. S[oslash]ndergaard, O.J.
Nielsen, M.D., Hurley, and T.J. Wellington, Atmospheric Chemistry
and Physics Discussions 8, 1069-1088, 2008.
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Flammability information: R-448A, as formulated and even
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many
refrigerants.
The AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf; and 800 ppm for HFO-
1234ze(E), the components of R-448A. The manufacturer of R-448A
recommends an AEL of 890 ppm on an 8-hr TWA for the blend. EPA
anticipates that users will be able to meet the AIHA WEELs and
manufacturer's AEL and address potential health risks by following
requirements and recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE
15, and other safety precautions common to the refrigeration and air
conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-448A has an ODP
of zero, comparable to or lower than other listed substitutes in this
end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
R-448A's GWP of 1,390 is lower than or comparable to that of
acceptable substitutes for ice skating rinks (new), such as HFC-134a,
R-407C, and R-507A, with GWPs ranging from 1,430 to 3,990. R-448A's GWP
is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for ice skating
rinks (new), including ammonia absorption, CO2, R-450A, and
R-513A with GWPs ranging from zero to 630.
Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the
same end-use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
EPA finds R-448A acceptable in the ice skating rinks (new) end-use
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health
risk than other available substitutes in this end-use.
D. R-449A
EPA's decision: EPA finds R-449A acceptable as a substitute for use
in:
Ice skating rinks (new equipment)
R-449A, marketed under the trade name Opteon[supreg] XP 40, is a
weighted blend of 24.3 percent HFC-32, which is also known as
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); 24.7 percent HFC-125, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); 25.7
percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2); and 25.3 percent HFO-1234yf, which is also known as
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No. 754-12-1).
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for
Notice 30 Listing of R-449A (XP40) in Certain Refrigeration and Air
Conditioning End-Uses. SNAP Submission Received August 6, 2014.'' EPA
performed an assessment to examine the health and environmental risks
of this substitute. This assessment is available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-
[[Page 64769]]
2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on Substitutes in Ice Skating Rinks (New
Equipment) Substitute: R-449A.''
EPA previously listed R-449A as an acceptable refrigerant in a
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including
retrofit use in ice skating rinks (e.g., July 16, 2015, 80 FR 42053;
October 11, 2016, 81 FR 70029; July 21, 2017, 82 FR 33809; October 4,
2018, 83 FR 50026).
Environmental information: R-449A has an ODP of zero. Its
components, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, and HFO-1234yf, have GWPs of
675; 3,500; 1,430; and one to four,\9\ respectively. If these values
are weighted by mass percentage, then R-449A has a GWP of about 1,400.
The components of R-449A are excluded from the definition of VOC under
CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing
this refrigerant blend is limited by the venting prohibition under
section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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\9\ Hodnebrog et al., 2013 and Nielsen et al., 2007. Op. cit.
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Flammability information: R-449A, as formulated and even
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many
refrigerants.
The AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a and 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf, the components of
R-449A. The manufacturer of R-449A recommends an AEL of 830 ppm on an
8-hr TWA for the blend. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet
each of the AIHA WEELs and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the
manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common
to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-449A has an ODP
of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes in
this end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
R-449A's GWP of 1,400 is lower than or comparable to that of
acceptable substitutes for ice skating rinks (new), such as HFC-134a,
R-407C, and R-507A with GWPs ranging from 1,430 to 3,990. R-449A's GWP
is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for ice skating
rinks (new), including ammonia absorption, CO2, R-450A, and
R-513A with GWPs ranging from zero to 630.
Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the
same end-use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
EPA finds R-449A acceptable in the ice skating rinks (new) end-use
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health
risk than other available substitutes in the same end-use.
E. R-449B
EPA's decision: EPA finds R-449B acceptable as a substitute for use
in:
Ice skating rinks (new equipment)
R-449B, marketed under the trade name Forane[supreg] 449B, is a
weighted blend of 25.2 percent HFC-32, which is also known as
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); 24.3 percent HFC-125, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); 27.3
percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CAS
Reg. No. 811-97-2); and 23.2 percent HFO-1234yf, which is also known as
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (CAS Reg. No. 754-12-1).
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for
Notice 32 Listing of R-449B in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. SNAP
Submission Received October 2, 2015.'' EPA performed an assessment to
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. This
assessment is available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on
Substitutes in Ice Skating Rinks (New Equipment) Substitute: R-449B.''
EPA previously listed R-449B as an acceptable refrigerant in a
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including
retrofit use in ice skating rinks (e.g., October 11, 2016, 81 FR 70029;
July 21, 2017, 82 FR 33809; October 4, 2018, 83 FR 50026).
Environmental information: R-449B has an ODP of zero. Its
components, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, and HFO-1234yf, have GWPs of
675; 3,500; 1,430; and one to four,\10\ respectively. If these values
are weighted by mass percentage, then R-449B has a GWP of about 1,410.
The components of R-449B are excluded from the definition of VOC under
CAA regulations (see 40 CFR 51.100(s)) addressing the development of
SIPs to attain and maintain the NAAQS. Knowingly venting or releasing
this refrigerant blend is limited by the venting prohibition under
section 608(c)(2) of the CAA, codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\10\ Hodnebrog et al., 2013 and Nielsen et al., 2007. Op. cit.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flammability information: R-449B, as formulated and even
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many
refrigerants.
The AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000 ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a and 500 ppm for HFO-1234yf, the components of
R-449B. The manufacturer of R-449B recommends an AEL of 865 ppm on an
8-hr TWA for the blend. EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet
each of the AIHA WEELs and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the
manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common
to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-449B has an ODP
of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes in
this end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
R-449B's GWP of 1,410 is lower than or comparable to that of
acceptable substitutes for ice skating rinks (new), such as HFC-134a,
R-407C, and R-507A with GWPs ranging from 1,430 to 3,990. R-449B's GWP
is higher than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for ice skating
rinks (new), including ammonia absorption, CO2, R-450A, and
R-513A with GWPs ranging from zero to 630.
[[Page 64770]]
Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the
same end-use. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
EPA finds R-449B acceptable in the ice skating rinks (new) end-use
because it does not pose greater overall environmental and human health
risk than other available substitutes in this end-use.
F. R-453A
EPA's decision: EPA finds R-453A acceptable as a substitute for use
in:
Refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers \11\
(new and retrofit equipment)
\11\ See Section II for clarification of this end-use.
R-453A, marketed under the trade name RS-70, is a weighted blend of
53.8 percent HFC-134a, which is also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane
(CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2); 20.0 percent HFC-32, which is also known as
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); and 20 percent HFC-125, which
is also known as 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6);
five percent HFC-227ea, which is also known as 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-
heptafluoropropane (CAS Reg. No. 75-28-5); 0.6 percent R-600, which is
also known as butane (CAS Reg. No. 75-28-5); and 0.6 percent R-601a,
which is also known as isopentane (CAS Reg. No. 78-78-4).
You may find the redacted submission in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118
at www.regulations.gov under the name, ``Supporting Documentation for
Notice 33 Listing of R-453A in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. SNAP
Submission Received March 12, 2015.'' EPA performed an assessment to
examine the health and environmental risks of this substitute. This
assessment is available in Docket EPA-HQ-OAR-2003-0118 ``Risk Screen on
Substitutes in Refrigerated Transport--Substitute: R-453A.''
EPA previously listed R-453A as an acceptable refrigerant in a
number of other refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, including
use in retail food refrigeration--remote condensing units, industrial
process refrigeration, and cold storage warehouses (July 21, 2017, 82
FR 33809).
Environmental information: R-453A has an ODP of zero. Its
components, HFC-134a, HFC-32, HFC-125, HFC-227ea, butane, and
isopentane have GWPs of 1,430; 675; 3,500; 3,220; 4; and 5,
respectively. If these values are weighted by mass percentage, then R-
453A has a GWP of about 1,770. Except for butane and isopentane, which
together make up 1.2 percent of the blend, the components of R-453A are
excluded from the definition of VOC under CAA regulations (see 40 CFR
51.100(s)) addressing the development of SIPs to attain and maintain
the NAAQS.\12\ Knowingly venting or releasing this refrigerant blend is
limited by the venting prohibition under section 608(c)(2) of the CAA,
codified at 40 CFR 82.154(a)(1).
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\12\ EPA's analysis of the local air quality impacts of
potential emissions of HCs when used as refrigerant substitutes in
all end-uses in the refrigeration and AC sector estimated that
saturated HCs, such as butane and isopentane, have little impact on
local air quality. 81 FR at 86792; December 1, 2016.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flammability information: R-453A, as formulated and even
considering the worst-case fractionation for flammability, is not
flammable.
Toxicity and exposure data: Potential health effects of exposure to
this substitute include drowsiness or dizziness. The substitute may
also irritate the skin or eyes or cause frostbite. At sufficiently high
concentrations, the substitute may cause irregular heartbeat. The
substitute could cause asphyxiation if air is displaced by vapors in a
confined space. These potential health effects are common to many
refrigerants.
For the components of R-453A, AIHA has established WEELs of 1,000
ppm as an 8-hr TWA for HFC-134a, HFC-32, HFC-125, and HFC-227ea, and
the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
has established a Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of 1,000 ppm for R-600
and a TLV of 600 ppm for R-601a, both as an 8-hr TWA. The manufacturer
of R-453A recommends an AEL of 1,000 ppm on an 8-hr TWA for the blend.
EPA anticipates that users will be able to meet each of the AIHA WEELs,
the ACGIH's TLVs, and the manufacturer's AEL and address potential
health risks by following requirements and recommendations in the
manufacturer's SDS, in ASHRAE 15, and other safety precautions common
to the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to other substitutes in this end-use: R-453A has an ODP
of zero, comparable to or lower than the other listed substitutes in
this end-use, with ODPs ranging from zero to 0.098.
R-453A's GWP of 1,770 is lower than or comparable to that of
acceptable substitutes for refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks
and trailers such as R-404A, R-507A, and a number of HFC refrigerant
blends with GWPs in the range of 1,770 to 3,990. R-453A's GWP is higher
than the GWPs of other acceptable substitutes for refrigerated
transport--refrigerated trucks and trailers, including ammonia
absorption, CO2, R-450A, and R-513A with GWPs ranging from
zero to 630.
Flammability and toxicity risks are comparable to or lower than
flammability and toxicity risks of other available substitutes in the
same end-uses. Toxicity risks can be minimized by use consistent with
the AIHA WEELs, ASHRAE 15 and other industry standards, recommendations
in the manufacturer's SDS, and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
EPA finds R-453A acceptable in the refrigerated transport--
refrigerated trucks and trailers end-use because it does not pose
greater overall environmental and human health risk than other
available substitutes in this end-use.
II. Clarification of Refrigerated Transport--Refrigerated Trucks and
Trailers End-Use Category
In this action, EPA is listing multiple refrigerants as acceptable
substitutes in the ``refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and
trailers'' end-use category. EPA first introduced this end-use category
in prior listings for the refrigerants R-452A and R-452C (July 21,
2017, 82 FR 33809). In response to a request for clarification, we are
providing a more thorough description of the types of equipment
included in the refrigerated transport--refrigerated trucks and
trailers end-use category. As previously specified, this end-use
category covers a subset of on-road vehicles, i.e., refrigerated trucks
and trailers with a separate autonomous refrigeration unit with the
condenser typically located at the front of a refrigerated trailer.
This end-use category also covers domestic trailer refrigeration units
that contain an integrated motor (i.e., does not require a separate
electrical power system or separate generator set to operate) that are
transported as part of a truck, on truck trailers, and on railway flat
cars. Other types of containers, such as sea-going ones that are
connected to a ship's electrical system or require a separate generator
that is not an integral part of the refrigeration unit to operate, are
not included. This end-use category also does not include (i)
refrigerated vans or other vehicles where a single system also supplies
passenger comfort cooling,
[[Page 64771]]
(ii) refrigerated containers that are less than 8 feet 4 inches in
width, (iii) refrigeration units used on containers that require a
separate generator to power the refrigeration unit, or (iv) ship holds.
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Air pollution control, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: October 31, 2019.
Christopher Grundler,
Director, Office of Atmospheric Programs.
Appendix A: Summary of Decisions for New Acceptable Substitutes
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End-use Substitute Decision Further information \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Centrifugal chillers (new and R-1224yd(Z)........... Acceptable............ R-1224yd(Z) has an ozone
retrofit equipment). depletion potential (ODP) of
approximately 0.00012 and a 100-
yr global warming potential
(GWP) of approximately 1. R-
1224yd(Z) is also known as (Z)-
1-chloro-2,3,3,3-
tetrafluoropropene (CAS Reg.
No. 111512-60-8).
R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
The Occupational Alliance for
Risk Science (OARS) recommends
a Workplace Environmental
Exposure Limit (WEEL) of 1,000
ppm on an eight-hour time-
weighted average (8-hr TWA) for
R-1224yd(Z).
Ice skating rinks (new R-448A................ Acceptable............ R-448A has a 100-yr GWP of
equipment). approximately 1,390. This
substitute is a blend of HFC-32
which is also known as
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No.
75-10-5); HFC-125, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-
pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
354-33-6); HFC-134a, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
811-97-2); HFO-1234yf, which is
also known as 2,3,3,3-
tetrafluoro-prop-l-ene (CAS
Reg. No. 754-12-1); and HFO-
1234ze(E) which is also known
as trans-1,3,3,3-
tetrafluoroprop-l-ene (CAS Reg.
No. 29118-24-9).
The blend is nonflammable.
The American Industrial Hygiene
Association (AIHA) has
established WEELs of 1,000 ppm
on an 8-hr TWA basis for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; 500
ppm for HFO-1234yf; and 800 ppm
for HFO-1234ze(E). The
manufacturer recommends an
acceptable exposure limit (AEL)
for the workplace for R-448A of
890 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Ice skating rinks (new R-449A................ Acceptable............ R-449A has a 100-year GWP of
equipment). approximately 1,400. This
substitute is a blend of HFC-32
(CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); HFC-125
(CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); HFC-
134a (CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2);
and HFO-1234yf (CAS Reg. No.
754-12-1).
The blend is nonflammable.
The AIHA has established WEELs
of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; and
500 ppm for HFO-1234yf. The
manufacturer recommends an AEL
for the workplace for R-449A of
830 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Ice skating rinks (new R-449B................ Acceptable............ R-449B has a 100-year GWP of
equipment). approximately 1,410. This
substitute is a blend of HFC-32
(CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5); HFC-125
(CAS Reg. No. 354-33-6); HFC-
134a (CAS Reg. No. 811-97-2);
and HFO-1234yf (CAS Reg. No.
754-12-1).
The blend is nonflammable.
The AIHA has established WEELs
of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
32, HFC-125, and HFC-134a; and
500 ppm for HFO-1234yf. The
manufacturer recommends an AEL
for the workplace for R-449B of
865 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Industrial process R-1224yd(Z)........... Acceptable............ R-1224yd(Z) has an ODP of
refrigeration (new and approximately 0.00012 and a GWP
retrofit equipment). of approximately 1. R-1224yd(Z)
is also known as (Z)-1-chloro-
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (CAS
Reg. No. 111512-60-8).
R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
The OARS recommends a WEEL of
1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for R-
1224yd(Z).
Positive Displacement chillers R-1224yd(Z)........... Acceptable............ R-1224yd(Z) has an ODP of
(new and retrofit equipment). approximately 0.00012 and a GWP
of approximately 1. R-1224yd(Z)
is also known as (Z)-1-chloro-
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (CAS
Reg. No. 111512-60-8).
R-1224yd(Z) is not flammable.
The OARS recommends a WEEL of
1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for R-
1224yd(Z).
Refrigerated transport-- R-407H................ Acceptable............ R-407H has a 100-year GWP of
refrigerated trucks and approximately 1,500. This
trailers (new and retrofit substitute is a blend of HFC-
equipment). 134a (CAS Reg. No.811-97-2);
HFC-32 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5);
and HFC-125 (CAS Reg. No. 354-
33-6).
This blend is nonflammable.
The AIHA has established WEELs
of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125. The
manufacture recommends an AEL
for the workplace for R-407H of
1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).
[[Page 64772]]
Refrigerated transport-- R-453A................ Acceptable............ R-453A has a 100-year GWP of
refrigerated trucks and approximately 1,770. This
trailers (new and retrofit substitute is a blend of HFC-
equipment). 32, which is also known as
difluoromethane (CAS Reg. No.
75-10-5); HFC-125, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2,2-
pentafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
354-33-6); HFC-134a, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2-
tetrafluoroethane (CAS Reg. No.
811-97-2); HFC-227ea, which is
also known as 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-
heptafluoropropane (CAS Reg.
No. 439-89-0); R-600, which is
also known as butane (CAS Reg.
No. 75-28-5); and R-601a, which
is also known as isopentane
(CAS Reg. No. 78-78-4).
The blend is nonflammable.
The AIHA has established WEELs
of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
32, HFC-125, HFC-134a, and HFC-
227ea, and the American
Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists has
established a Threshold Limit
Value (TLV) of 1,000 ppm for R-
600 and a TLV of 600 ppm for R-
601a, both as an 8-hr TWA. The
manufacturer recommends an AEL
for the workplace for R-453A of
1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Retail food refrigeration-- R-407H................ Acceptable............ R-407H has a 100-year GWP of
refrigerated food processing approximately 1,500. This
and dispensing equipment (new substitute is a blend of HFC-
and retrofit equipment). 134a (CAS Reg. No.811-97-2);
HFC-32 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5);
and HFC-125 (CAS Reg. No. 354-
33-6).
This blend is nonflammable.
The AIHA has established WEELs
of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125. The
manufacture recommends an AEL
for the workplace for R-407H of
1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).
Retail food refrigeration-- R-407H................ Acceptable............ R-407H has a 100-year GWP of
supermarket systems (new and approximately 1,500. This
retrofit equipment). substitute is a blend of HFC-
134a (CAS Reg. No.811-97-2);
HFC-32 (CAS Reg. No. 75-10-5);
and HFC-125 (CAS Reg. No. 354-
33-6).
This blend is nonflammable.
The AIHA has established WEELs
of 1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA) for HFC-
134a, HFC-32, and HFC-125. The
manufacture recommends an AEL
for the workplace for R-407H of
1,000 ppm (8-hr TWA).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Observe recommendations in the manufacturer's SDS and guidance for all listed refrigerants.
[FR Doc. 2019-25412 Filed 11-22-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P