F gases
Fluorinated gases (F gases) are used as refrigerants in buildings, for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, to provide cooling for refrigeration or to provide cooling for industrial processes.
F gases are not ozone depleting and they are often used as substitutes for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). However they are powerful greenhouse gases (up to 20,000 times more powerful than CO2) and are listed as part of the Kyoto Protocol basket of greenhouse gases.
As emissions of F gases increase, so their use is coming under greater scrutiny.
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are F gases. HFCs are commonly used in buildings and include refrigerants such as R134a, R404A, R407C and R507C.
Other F gases include SF6, perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Air conditioning.
- Air conditioning inspection.
- Cooling systems for buildings.
- Greenhouse gas.
- HVAC.
- Ozone depleting substance.
- R22 phase out.
- R404A phase out.
- Refrigerants.
- Refrigerant selection.
- SF6.
[edit] External references
- Gov.uk Managing fluorinated gases and ozone-depleting substances. 2013
- European Commission, Fluorinated greenhouse gases.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Accommodating the Victorian and Edwardian working woman. Book review.
Rethinking passive fire protection in design
PFP demands the same level of design rigour as structure or services.
38% of Gen Zs feel safe when a fire door is wedged open.
Stunning images from around the world
Shortlist for CIOB’s Art of Building photography competition.
Guidance for conversion of traditional pre-1919 stone buildings.
Industrial heritage in the Ruhr
A marked difference to the fate of industrial landscapes in the UK.
Communities will be able to build their own clean energy.
Why diversity and inclusion matters for SMEs
CIOB’s D&I Charter shows how practical changes can support long-term growth.
Cut electricity bills to power growth
Coalition sends joint letter to the Chancellor.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.
Discover the future of roofing, cladding and insulation.