401b/MP66 not that popular around here

[mmmdave]

Ok so DuPont says 401b is the best choice for replacing r12 in low temp applications, and smart folks on this forum concur. My question is why most suppliers I talk to do not keep it in stock, and say they rarely sell any? They say most contractors are using 409 or hotshot, even for low temp.

Just curious... is it because contractors don't want another tank on the truck, or are not aware of the performance at low temp?
:anyone:

[icemeister]

MP66 (R401B) is the best refrigerant for replacing R12 low temperature with the possible exception of MO49 Plus (R437A), which is also very hard to find.

I don't keep my MP66 tank in the truck any more because I only have a few systems left running on it.

Probably half of the refrigeration guys you talk to have ever heard of MP66.

Probably none of the refrigeration guys you talk to have ever heard of MO49 Plus.

[pdrake65]

Grainger sells 401-B under the Forane brand name...it is not cheap. I don't keep it in the van but I do use it and have a jug at the shop.

[jackal]

R401B has much better capacity at those lower evaporator temperatures and allows for healthier compressor operation. Low temperaure compressors really hate high superheat (which can occur from a poorly selected replacement refrigerant) and at the cost of LT compressors why not use the best suited refrigerant?

[jackal]

I just reread your post and realized you were wondering why contractors don't use 401B, well that's probably due to price and as others have stated and there aren't that many R-12 low temperature systems around anymore. Why carry an expensive cylinder that you may only need for one job. Nevertheless, it is a very good replacement.

[thefreezerguy]

I just reread your post and realized you were wondering why contractors don't use 401B, well that's probably due to price and as others have stated and there aren't that many R-12 low temperature systems around anymore. Why carry an expensive cylinder that you may only need for one job. Nevertheless, it is a very good replacement.

Agreed, works great. I used it a few times years ago after the phase out. Then it seems the few low temp 12 systems we had went away. I haven't seen one in years in the markets we service. And even back then, the low temp 12 systems we had were in some independents the had pretty old equipment.

[pdrake65]

I still have 5 systems using this. Haven't had to buy any refrigerant for them. Got a jug of about 3/4 from a friend about 6 years ago...still half full.