On Feb. 24,, 2011, EPA Administrator Jackson made a determination that HFO-1234yf is acceptable, subject to use conditions, as a substitute for CFC-12 in new MVAC systems for passenger cars and light-duty trucks. This determination does not apply to the use of HFO-1234yf as a conversion or retrofit for existing MVAC systems. In addition, it does not apply to the use of HFO-1234yf in the air conditioning or refrigeration systems of heavy-duty trucks, refrigerated transport, or off-road vehicles such as agricultural or construction equipment. Under this decision, the following enforceable use conditions apply when HFO-1234yf is used in a new MVAC system for passenger cars and light-duty trucks: 1. HFO-1234yf MVAC systems must adhere to all of the safety requirements of SAE , and 2) Manufacturers must conduct Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) as provided in SAE J1739 (adopted 2009). The rule will go into effect 60 days after it is published in the Federal Register. For a copy of the advanced copy version, click here. Docket ref: EPAHQ-OAR-2008-0664.
