F-Gas English Low GWP

All questions
HFC | Flammable | CO₂ | NH₃
Easy questions | Medium questions | Difficult questions

1

Difficult

What additional protective equipment will you use when brazing systems containing HC refrigerants?


Ear defenders
Latex gloves
A high-visibility vest
A flammable gas detector

2

Difficult

Why can’t a sealed high-pressure switch be replaced with a standard mechanical one in a system containing a flammable refrigerant?


It is a potential source of ignition
The pressure switch setting will not be correct
Dust and moisture may enter
There is a risk of refrigerant leakage

3

Difficult

What is the minimum (recommended) distance from a work area with HC refrigerants within which there must be no sources of ignition?


1 m
0.5 m
2 m
3 m

4

Difficult

What is the maximum safe R32 fill of a recovery cylinder approved for flammable gas that holds 20 kg of R410A (the liquid density of R32 is about 8-10% lower)?


20 kg
9 kg
18 kg
33 kg

5

Difficult

What is the maximum charge of an A3 refrigerant for a hermetic display cabinet with an integral condenser located in the ground-floor sales area of a supermarket?


10 kg
0,494 kg
2.5 kg
1.0 kg

6

Difficult

How can a vacuum pump be used safely to evacuate a system containing a flammable refrigerant?


Position the pump at least 3 m above floor level
Ignition-source-free pump, good ventilation, exhaust to a safe place
Place the pump directly on the floor, as low as possible
Such systems need not be evacuated before charging

7

Difficult

What safety measure must you carry in your vehicle when transporting flammable refrigerant cylinders?


A fire extinguisher
A fire blanket
Tinted safety goggles
Thick gloves

8

Difficult

How would you prepare a 10 kg R32 water chiller located outdoors for debrazing its joints?


Recover the R32 to a vacuum, then fill the system with nitrogen to a slight positive pressure (approx. 0.1 bar g)
Vent the R32 outdoors and purge the system
Recover the R32 to a vacuum and start desoldering immediately
Vent the R32 outdoors, then fill and vent the system with nitrogen three times

9

Difficult

Which of the following leak detection methods should NOT be used to locate an HC refrigerant leak?


Leak detection foam
Electronic leak detector for flammable refrigerants
Electronic HFC leak detector
Soapy water solution

10

Difficult

What is the most important difference between a flammable refrigerant recovery unit and a standard one?


A different colour for the station
Different low-pressure switch setting
A flammable refrigerant recovery unit has no ignition sources
Different connection sizes

11

Difficult

Which of the following is a source of ignition?


A contactor (sparking contacts)
A sealed NTC temperature sensor
An 'n'-type (non-sparking) thermostat
An Ex-certified fan motor

12

Difficult

What particularly hazardous substance is formed when R32 burns?


Phosgene
Hydrogen chloride (HCl)
Hydrogen fluoride (HF)
Sulphur dioxide (SO₂)

13

Difficult

What type of refrigerant is R1234ze(E)?


CFC (chlorofluorocarbon)
HFO (hydrofluoroolefin)
HC (hydrocarbon)
HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbon)

14

Difficult

What hazards does a safety group A3 refrigerant pose?


Lower toxicity, moderate flammability
Higher toxicity, moderate flammability
Higher toxicity, higher flammability
Lower toxicity, higher flammability

15

Difficult

According to EN 378, what is the maximum R290 charge in a cold room measuring 5 m × 3 m × 2.5 m (LFL of R290 = 0.038 kg/m³, access category a, location class I, no additional measures))?


1.5 kg
4.93 kg
0.285 kg
1.0 kg

16

Difficult

What is the approximate ratio of the volumetric cooling capacity of R32 to that of R410A (same compressor and conditions)?


approx. 1.3
approx. 0.75
approx. 0.6
approx. 1.05–1.1

17

Difficult

Why are Ex-certified evaporator fan motors used in some systems with flammable refrigerants?


Because they must be kept running continuously to disperse the leaking refrigerant
Because they are more energy-efficient
To avoid a source of ignition in the event of a flammable refrigerant leak
Because they are more reliable

18

Difficult

Why is the density difference between HC and HFC refrigerants important?


Because HCs operate at much higher pressures
Because HCs must be charged much more slowly than HFCs
Because it determines the system's energy efficiency
An HC charge in kg is roughly half that of an HFC

19

Difficult

What is the GWP of R290 according to Annex VI to Regulation (EU) 2024/573?


7
0.02
150
675

20

Difficult

Which of the following is NOT a source of ignition?


An electrical switch
An Ex-certified fan motor
A light switch
An unsealed mechanical pressure switch

21

Difficult

What is R290?


Butane
Isobutane
Propane
Propene (Propylene)

22

Difficult

What is the maximum A2L charge for a hermetic display cabinet with integral condenser in the ground-floor sales area of a supermarket?


150 g
2.5 kg
1.2 kg
1.5 kg

23

Difficult

Why can’t a standard relay be fitted when retrofitting a compressor’s electrical system for flammable refrigerants?


It could be a source of ignition
A relay is never required for compressors using flammable refrigerants
The method of starting the compressor motor differs from that used with HFCs
Current consumption differs for compressors using flammable refrigerants compared to those using HFCs

24

Difficult

What is the minimum (recommended) distance from a work area with HC refrigerants within which there must be no ignition sources?


1 m
5 m
10 m
3 m

25

Difficult

A recovery cylinder holds 10 kg of R404A (filling ratio 0.82 kg/l). What is the maximum R290 charge for this cylinder (propane filling ratio 0.43 kg/l per ADR P200)?


approx. 5.2 kg
approx. 17 kg
20 kg
approx. 8 kg

26

Difficult

How can a vacuum pump be used safely to evacuate a system containing R290?


Ignition-source-free pump, good ventilation, exhaust to a safe place
R290 systems need not be evacuated before charging
Place the pump directly on the floor, as low as possible
Position the pump at least 3 m above floor level

27

Difficult

Under ADR, what equipment must you carry in your vehicle when transporting flammable refrigerant cylinders (under the 1.1.3.6 exemption)?


Thick gloves
A fire blanket
Tinted safety goggles
A fire extinguisher (at least 2 kg dry powder)

28

Difficult

How do you make sure it is safe to light the torch for desoldering joints in a system from which a flammable refrigerant has been removed?


Such joints must never be desoldered; they must be cut with a pipe cutter
Working outdoors is sufficient
Ensure good ventilation and check the work area with a flammable gas detector
Purge the system with compressed air

29

Difficult

How would you prepare a system containing 100 g of R1270 for debrazing, if local regulations allow controlled venting of small HC quantities?


Vent the R1270 to a safe outdoor location, then purge with OFN three times (pressurise and vent), and braze with OFN flowing
Recover the R1270 to a vacuum and start brazing immediately without a nitrogen purge
Vent the R1270 outdoors and start brazing immediately
Vent the R1270 into the room and open a window

30

Difficult

Which method should NOT be used to locate an R290 leak?


An electronic leak detector designed for HFCs
Leak detection foam
Fluorescent dye and UV lamp (if approved by the manufacturer)
An electronic detector for flammable refrigerants

31

Difficult

Why can’t recovery stations designed for HFCs be used with R600a?


The low-pressure switch setting will not be suitable for R600a due to its lower operating pressure
The recovery unit cannot withstand the working pressure of R600a
They contain ignition sources
The oil in the recovery unit is not soluble in R600a

32

Difficult

According to EN 378, what is the maximum R1234ze(E) charge in a cold room measuring 5 m × 3 m × 2.5 m (LFL = 0.303 kg/m³, access category a, location class I, no additional measures)?


2.27 kg
618 kg
6.18 kg
227 kg

33

Difficult

What type of refrigerant is R32?


Hydrofluoroolefin
Hydrocarbon
Hydrofluorocarbon
Carbon dioxide

34

Difficult

What hazards do A2L refrigerants pose?


Lower toxicity, lower flammability (burning velocity ≤ 10 cm/s)
Higher toxicity, higher flammability
Higher toxicity, lower flammability
Lower toxicity, higher flammability

35

Difficult

What hazard is associated with the combustion of HFO or HFC refrigerants?


Ozone is formed
Phosgene is formed
Hydrogen fluoride (HF) is formed
Nitrous oxide is formed

36

Difficult

Approximately what compressor displacement is required for R600a compared with R134a for the same cooling capacity?


The same
About seven times as large
About twice as large
About half

37

Difficult

What is the GWP value for R32 according to Regulation (EU) 2024/573?


0
7
675
3

38

Difficult

Why is charge accuracy more important in critically charged R290 systems than in HFC systems?


Because R290 is only used in systems below 150 g
Because such systems never have liquid receivers
Because of lower operating pressures
The charge mass is much smaller than in an HFC system, because the liquid density of R290 is much lower

39

Difficult

Why does the condenser fan run continuously in some systems using R1270?


To prevent the build-up of contaminants in the condenser
To ensure that the discharge pressure never becomes excessive
To dilute the refrigerant in the event of a leak
To reduce energy consumption

40

Difficult

What is the role of a suction liquid separator (also in systems with flammable or toxic refrigerants)?


It separates liquid from oil
It heats the refrigerant before the evaporator
It is used only to measure moisture
It prevents liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor

41

Difficult

What is the function of an oil separator in systems using flammable or toxic refrigerants?


Heats the refrigerant before it enters the evaporator
They are used solely to measure the moisture content of the refrigerant
It prevents liquid from entering the compressor
Separates oil from the refrigerant and facilitates the return of oil to the compressor

42

Difficult

Why do liquid and oil separators in CO₂ systems require particular attention?


Because CO₂ needs no lubrication, so oil separators are unnecessary
Because CO₂ is flammable and separators must not be used
Because sight glasses and level indicators must not be used in CO₂ systems
Because of very high pressures – adequate PS and protection devices are required

43

Difficult

What is the critical pressure of CO₂ (R744)?


Approx. 120 bar
Approx. 74 bar (abs)
Approx. 31 bar
Approx. 10 bar

44

Difficult

What characterises the transcritical process in CO₂ systems?


It is irrelevant to system operation
Heat rejection takes place above the critical point – the refrigerant does not condense in the conventional way (gas cooler instead of condenser)
Conventional condensation occurs
It occurs only at low temperatures

45

Difficult

What characterises the subcritical CO₂ process?


The absence of evaporation
Operation above the critical point
The absence of condensation
The conventional condensation process below the critical point

46

Difficult

When can dry ice (solid CO₂) form?


At high pressure
At high temperature
During normal operation of the system
When the pressure drops suddenly below the triple point (approx. 5.2 bar abs, −56.6 °C), e.g. when venting liquid CO₂ or charging liquid into an evacuated system

47

Difficult

What risks are associated with dry ice forming in a CO₂ system?


No risk
Blocked pipes and valves and system damage (and a sharp pressure rise when it thaws)
Improved efficiency
Pressure reduction

48

Difficult

How does CO₂ saturation pressure change as temperature increases?


It remains the same
It first decreases, then increases
It increases rapidly
It decreases

49

Difficult

What happens to CO₂ above the critical point?


It turns into a solid
It ceases to conduct heat
It turns into a liquid
It transitions to a supercritical state (no distinction between liquid and gas)

50

Difficult

What is the main difference between a dry-expansion and a flooded evaporator?


A dry-expansion evaporator is filled with liquid, a flooded one with vapour
A dry-expansion evaporator needs no expansion valve, a flooded one does
A dry-expansion evaporator always has a lower pressure than a flooded one
In a dry-expansion evaporator the refrigerant completely evaporates and is superheated in the evaporator; in a flooded one part of the refrigerant remains liquid (incomplete evaporation, no superheat)

51

Difficult

What is the typical pressure in the evaporator of an R717 deep-freeze system (below −40 °C)?


Positive pressure of 5–10 bar
Atmospheric pressure, approx. 1 bar abs
Positive pressure of 10–20 bar
Below atmospheric (approx. 0.7 bar abs at −40 °C)

52

Difficult

Why are PFAS formed by the decomposition of certain F-gases (e.g. TFA from HFOs) problematic?


They are readily biodegradable
They are very persistent, accumulate in the environment (e.g. water) and may be toxic
They are climate- and environment-neutral
They cause rapid cooling of the atmosphere

53

Difficult

How is oil managed in R717 systems?


Oil collecting at the lowest points of vessels is regularly checked and drained, because it impairs heat transfer
Oil has no effect on system operation
Oil requires no monitoring
Oil can be mixed with any refrigerant

54

Difficult

What should be done with contaminated R717?


Dilute it with water and reuse it
Release it into the atmosphere
Purify it or send it for disposal in accordance with regulations
Continue to use it without restriction

55

Difficult

What should be done if an NH₃ leak is detected?


Carry on working wearing a dust mask
Carry on working with the room door open
Evacuate people immediately and raise the alarm; stop the leak only if it is safe to do so and with suitable PPE (respiratory protection)
Increase the pressure in the system

56

Difficult

What role do scrubbers play in NH₃ systems?


They store the refrigerant
Neutralise ammonia through absorption in a liquid (e.g. water)
They increase the pressure in the system
They are used to measure temperature

57

Difficult

How should the system be prepared before filling with R717?


The pressure must be increased above the standard level
Check for leaks, remove air and moisture, and create a vacuum
Simply start it up
There is no need to check it

58

Difficult

What are the transport requirements for R717?


It can be carried in open containers
Transport is not regulated
It can be carried without labelling
It must be carried in suitable, labelled packagings in accordance with ADR (UN 1005, class 2, code 2TC)

59

Difficult

What is the main characteristic of R744 (CO₂) refrigeration systems?


Low energy efficiency under all conditions
No need for control
Low operating pressures
Very high operating pressures

60

Difficult

What are the requirements for piping materials in CO₂ systems?


Only plastics
They must withstand high pressures (e.g. stainless steel, high-strength copper-alloy tubes such as K65)
Any material may be used
It doesn't matter

61

Difficult

How does a booster system work in CO₂ installations?


It reduces the refrigerant quantity
It is used to store refrigerant
Low-temperature (LT) compressors discharge into the suction of medium-temperature (MT) compressors – two-stage compression in a single circuit
It reduces evaporator pressure

62

Difficult

Why is pressure optimisation in CO₂ systems crucial?


It reduces the amount of refrigerant
It doesn’t matter
It enables the system to achieve maximum energy efficiency in transcritical mode
It reduces the ambient temperature

63

Difficult

What role does parallel compression play in CO₂ systems?


It compresses flash gas from the intermediate receiver directly to high pressure, improving efficiency
It lowers the ambient temperature
It has no significance
It increases energy consumption

64

Difficult

How does an ejector work in a CO₂ system?


It lowers the evaporator temperature
It uses the energy of the higher-pressure refrigerant to raise the pressure of the refrigerant from the lower stage, which improves efficiency
Stores the refrigerant
It increases the amount of refrigerant

65

Difficult

What is the function of liquid ejectors in CO₂ systems?


They reduce atmospheric pressure
They return liquid from the separator and allow partially flooded evaporator operation (better evaporator feed)
They raise the refrigerant temperature
They increase the amount of oil

66

Difficult

What are the characteristics of partially flooded systems in CO₂ systems?


Low operating pressure
Lack of regulation
The presence of liquid in the evaporator, which improves heat transfer and efficiency
The absence of liquid in the evaporator

67

Difficult

What is the main risk associated with standstill pressure in CO₂ systems?


Increased efficiency
A pressure rise as the refrigerant warms up during standstill (possibly exceeding PS and lifting the relief valves)
A drop in temperature
A decrease in refrigerant quantity

68

Difficult

How is standstill pressure limited in CO₂ systems?


By raising the plant-room temperature
By using an auxiliary standstill (stagnation) cooling unit, e.g. cooling the receiver, with back-up power, and by selecting an adequate PS and relief valves
By completely shutting down the system and power supply
By increasing the refrigerant charge

69

Difficult

What does standstill (stagnation) of a CO₂ system mean, and why is it important?


Normal system operation
A state with no compressor operation or refrigerant flow – pressure rises with ambient temperature and may exceed PS
Improved efficiency
A drop in system temperature

70

Difficult

What must the label of a flammable refrigerant cylinder include?


Only the refrigerant name
Information about the cylinder owner
Only the net weight
The refrigerant name, the UN number, the hazard label (e.g. 2.1 – flammable gas) and basic safety information

71

Difficult

Why is the absence of a 'flammable refrigerant' label on equipment a serious hazard?


It reduces system efficiency
It may lead to the use of tools that are ignition sources
It may lead to the wrong oil being selected
It has no significant effect on safety

72

Difficult

Which set of information on the label of a flammable refrigerant cylinder is crucial from a safety perspective?


Gross weight and batch number
Cylinder colour and date of manufacture
Name of the substance, hazard label (ADR) / GHS pictogram (CLP), UN number
Manufacturer’s name and country of origin

73

Difficult

What is the purpose of gas detectors in a room with a refrigeration system?


Monitoring pipe pressure
Controlling compressor capacity
Early leak detection and triggering of measures preventing health risks and explosive atmospheres (alarm, ventilation, shut-off)
Measuring refrigerant temperature

74

Difficult

How often should gas detection sensors in a machinery room be checked?


Once every 5 years
Before every start-up of the unit
Only after a leak has occurred
According to the manufacturer's instructions and regulations – at least every 12 months

75

Difficult

Where should a gas detector be located according to EN 378?


Near the control panel
Where the refrigerant would accumulate: low (near the floor) for refrigerants heavier than air, high (near the ceiling) for lighter ones such as NH₃
Only at the room entrance
Anywhere in the room

76

Difficult

What safety checks should be carried out when installing a new refrigeration system with a flammable refrigerant?


Only the compressor power
Only that the air filter is new
The colour of pipes and hoses
The presence of health and safety signage, adequate ventilation and gas detectors

77

Difficult

What are the requirements for emergency exits from a refrigeration machinery room?


At least two exits are required and signage is optional
Outward-opening doors and signed escape routes (number of exits per the standard)
In small machinery rooms emergency exits need not be signed
One exit with a sign stating the refrigerant type is sufficient

78

Difficult

Which installation measure for a flammable-refrigerant system improves its energy efficiency?


A thorough tightness test and evacuation (dehydration) of the system
Charging above the nameplate quantity
Restricting room ventilation
Omitting the filter-drier

79

Difficult

Why is it important to limit the refrigerant charge in HC systems?


It limits the possibility of reaching a flammable concentration (≥ LFL) in a leak, increasing safety
It increases capacity
It doesn't matter
It lowers the temperature

80

Difficult

Which safety class applies to R744?


A2.
A1
B2L
A3

81

Difficult

In a simple single-stage R744 system without an intermediate receiver (refrigerant flows from the gas cooler directly to the expansion valve), operating transcritically at 90 bar with a gas-cooler outlet temperature of 35 °C, the refrigerant upstream of the expansion valve is…


…a subcooled liquid
…saturated vapour at intermediate pressure
…a two-phase mixture at intermediate pressure
…a supercritical fluid

82

Difficult

In R744 transcritical systems, the gas cooler outlet valve controls:


The inlet temperature to the gas cooler
The outlet temperature of the gas cooler
The gas cooler fans
The pressure in the gas cooler

83

Difficult

Which statement best describes the behaviour of R717 and mineral compressor oil?


R717 does not mix with the oil; the oil, being heavier than liquid NH₃, collects beneath it at the lowest points (mainly on the low-pressure side)
An oil return line cannot be used in R717 systems because the oil is too hot
R717 does not mix with the oil; the oil collects on the high-pressure side above the R717
R717 mixes very well with the oil, which easily returns to the compressor

84

Difficult

What is the main reason for using K65 copper tubing in some R744 systems?


They can withstand higher pressures
They have good low-temperature performance
They come in a wider range of diameters
They bend easily

85

Difficult

Which statement about installing Schrader valves is correct?


Schrader valves must not be used in R744 systems
When brazing the valve body, the core must be removed, then refitted and tightened to the correct torque
Hydrocarbons leak through Schrader valves
All Schrader cores are suitable for all refrigerants

86

Difficult

Which refrigerant can be detected with phenolphthalein paper?


R717
R1270
R1234ze(E)
R744

87

Difficult

How does an undercharge affect the high-pressure side (without discharge pressure control)?


Discharge (condensing) pressure and subcooling will both be lower
Discharge pressure higher, subcooling lower
Discharge pressure lower, subcooling higher
Discharge pressure higher, subcooling higher

88

Difficult

What is the benefit of adding helium as a tracer gas to nitrogen in a pressure test?


It has a distinctive odour that helps locate the leak
Its small atoms pass easily through leaks and are detected
It reacts with refrigerant residues, producing a visible colour change
It has a higher pressure than pure nitrogen in the same cylinder

89

Difficult

Why should an evacuated R744 system initially be charged with refrigerant in the vapour phase?


To avoid damaging the compressor with liquid CO₂
To charge R744 more slowly and measure it more accurately
To prevent dry ice forming (until approx. 5.2 bar abs is exceeded)
To prevent the drain valve on the receiver from opening

90

Difficult

If moisture remains in an R744 system because it was not properly evacuated (dehydrated), what is the likely consequence?


Reduced cooling capacity
Formation of carbonic acid, which damages the system
Excessive discharge pressure
Formation of hydrogen fluoride and hydrofluoric acid

91

Difficult

Which system may require manual oil recovery?


R744 cascade system
Secondary system using R744
An R717 system
Supercritical ‘booster’ system using R744

92

Difficult

The pressure of R744 at a saturation temperature of 20 °C is approx.


56 bar g
25 bar g
14 bar g
90 bar g

93

Difficult

Which refrigerant is lighter than air?


R717
R1270
R744
R1234ze(E)

94

Difficult

What hazards are associated with a safety group A3 refrigerant?


Higher toxicity, no flame propagation
Lower toxicity, no flame propagation
Higher flammability, lower toxicity
Lower flammability, lower toxicity

95

Difficult

What is the GWP of R32 (per AR4, as used in Regulation (EU) 2024/573)?


3922
6
0
675

96

Difficult

What factors are taken into account when determining the maximum charge for comfort air-conditioning/heating applications?


Lower flammability limit, height of the indoor unit, floor area
Practical limit, height of the indoor unit, floor area
Lower flammability limit, room volume
Practical limit, room volume

97

Difficult

What compressor displacement is required for R1270 compared with an R404A compressor in the medium-temperature range (cold room)?


About half
Similar
About 1.5 times larger
About 6 times larger

98

Difficult

At an ambient temperature of 25 °C, the standstill pressure in the low-pressure stage of an R744 cascade (without standstill cooling) will typically be…


…the same as the relief valve set pressure
…the same as the high-pressure switch setting
…approx. 27.5 bar g
…higher than the maximum allowable pressure (PS) of the low-pressure stage

99

Difficult

What is the correct definition of critical temperature?


The temperature at which a substance changes from a gaseous to a solid state
The temperature above which there are no distinct liquid and gaseous phases
The temperature at which, for certain substances, electrical resistance is zero
The temperature at which the vapour pressure of a liquid is equal to the ambient pressure surrounding the liquid

100

Difficult

In the gas cooler of a transcritical system, the supercritical working fluid…


…rejects heat during a phase change
…rejects heat at constant temperature and pressure
…rejects heat as its temperature falls
…rejects heat as its pressure falls

101

Difficult

R717 is highly corrosive to:


copper (and its alloys)
titanium
aluminium
stainless steel

102

Difficult

What can be the effect of a relief valve lifting repeatedly?


The valve stays fully open permanently
The set pressure increases
The valve may not reseat tightly and its set (opening) pressure may decrease
The valve no longer opens

103

Difficult

What is the relationship between the pressure (p) and temperature (T) of nitrogen at the start (1) and end (2) of a tightness test (p absolute, T in kelvin)?


p₂ = T₂/(p₁ × T₁)
p₂ = (p₁ × T₁)/T₂
p₂ = T₁/(p₁ × T₂)
p₂ = (p₁ × T₂)/T₁

104

Difficult

What is the recommended pre-alarm level for fixed leak detection systems for R717?


500,000 ppm
50,000 ppm
500 ppm
5,000 ppm

105

Difficult

Why are compressors with a separate motor (open type) mostly used in R717 systems?


To increase the refrigerant charge
Because NH₃ attacks copper motor windings, so hermetic compressors with conventional windings are not used
To lower the condensing pressure
Because they are cheaper

106

Difficult

Which type of compressor is most commonly used in large ammonia systems?


A reciprocating or screw compressor
Hermetic scroll
Rotary vane compressor
Diaphragm compressor

107

Difficult

How is the capacity of a piston compressor regulated in NH₃ systems?


By increasing the condensing pressure
By reducing the refrigerant charge
Solely by adjusting the oil volume
By unloading the cylinders or changing the rotational speed

108

Difficult

How is the capacity of a screw compressor most commonly controlled?


By adjusting the oil level
By using a slide valve
By changing the type of oil
By closing the suction valve

109

Difficult

When is two-stage compression used in NH₃ systems?


Only in small systems
At low evaporating temperatures (pressures) and high pressure ratios
At small temperature differences
Only with water-cooled condensers

110

Difficult

What is the advantage of two-stage compression over single-stage compression?


Higher energy consumption
Lower efficiency
No need for a separator
Higher efficiency and lower discharge temperature

111

Difficult

How does an evaporative condenser used in NH₃ systems work?


Operates without a fan
It utilises the evaporation of water to increase cooling efficiency
It transfers heat only to the air
It does not require a water supply

112

Difficult

What is the function of the liquid separator in an NH₃ system?


It prevents liquid from entering the compressor
Increases the discharge temperature
Regulates the condensing pressure
It separates oil from the refrigerant

113

Difficult

What is the purpose of monitoring the liquid level in the separator?


To control the condenser fan
To increase the oil volume
To reduce the condensing temperature
To maintain the correct refrigerant level and prevent the compressor from flooding

114

Difficult

What is the role of the float switch in NH₃ systems?


It monitors the liquid level in the tank or separator
It controls the fan’s operation
It regulates the condensation temperature
It is used to detect leaks

115

Difficult

What is a thermosyphon in NH₃ systems?


An oil circulation pump
A defrosting device
A system with gravity-driven (natural) circulation of liquid refrigerant caused by density differences, used e.g. for screw compressor oil cooling
A type of safety valve

116

Difficult

Why are oils that are immiscible with the refrigerant used in NH₃ systems?


Because the oil mixes only with water
To reduce the pressure
Because NH₃ does not mix with most compressor oils
To increase the amount of refrigerant

117

Difficult

What is the main function of an oil separator in NH₃ systems?


To lower the condensation temperature
To increase fan efficiency
Removing moisture from the system
To separate the oil from the refrigerant and return the oil to the compressor

118

Difficult

In which NH₃ system does the refrigerant evaporate completely with superheat in the evaporator, fed by an expansion valve?


A pumped liquid-recirculation system
A direct-expansion (DX) system
A glycol system
An indirect system

119

Difficult

What is the characteristic feature of a flooded evaporator system?


The evaporator contains a large amount of liquid, which improves heat transfer
No separator is used
The evaporator is filled exclusively with vapour
No level control is required

120

Difficult

What is the main difference between a direct and an indirect system?


In an indirect system, NH₃ flows directly into the space being cooled
In an indirect system, no compressor is used
In an indirect system, NH₃ cools an intermediate medium (e.g. glycol), which in turn cools the load
In a direct system, there is no evaporator

121

Difficult

Which parts of a refrigeration system should be given particular attention during a leak check?


Only compressor connections, because they are the only parts subject to vibration
Only condenser connections, because the refrigerant is liquid there
Compressor and receiver connections, because the pressure is highest there
Joints, valves incl. stems, seals, parts subject to vibration, connections to safety devices

122

Difficult

Leak checks can be carried out using various methods. Which pair is correct?


Physical and chemical methods
Material quality control methods and electronic methods
Direct and indirect methods
Methods with and without quality control of supplies

123

Difficult

To whom can leak checks of stationary refrigeration equipment containing F-gases be entrusted?


Any leak-testing specialist
A natural person holding a certificate covering leak checks (A1, A2 within its charge limit, or E)
An employee appointed by the owner of the installation
A person who has carried out such checks before

124

Difficult

What conditions must be met to use UV dye for leak checking?


It is sufficient that introducing dye into the circuit is technically feasible
A UDT authorisation for pressure testing is required
It is sufficient to have a UV lamp, dye and safety goggles
Manufacturer approval of the method and a certificate covering breaking into the circuit

125

Difficult

Which leak-checking methods are considered direct methods?


Vacuum test and foam solution
Pressure-change measurement and immersion in water
1. gas detection devices (portable or fixed leak detection system), 2. UV detection fluid or dye, 3. bubble/foam solutions
Nitrogen with tracer gas and pressure measurement

126

Difficult

What do indirect leak-checking methods involve?


Leak detection with UV dye
Ultrasonic measurement
Leak detection with an electronic detector
A visual and manual check and analysis of parameters: pressure, temperature, compressor current, liquid levels and recharge volume

127

Difficult

What does a vacuum (decay) test involve?


The pump is restarted every time the system pressure rises
After isolating the pump, you check whether the system pressure rises
The pump runs continuously to hold the required vacuum for the test
With the pump running, you watch the vacuum gauge reading

128

Difficult

How often should leak tests be carried out on equipment containing 1.5 kg of R404A refrigerant (5.9 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent)?


Only when servicing the unit.
On initial commissioning.
At least once every 12 months.
Once every six months.

129

Difficult

How often should leak tests be carried out on equipment containing 7 kg of R404A refrigerant (27.45 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent)?


At least once every 12 months.
Once every six months.
Only when servicing the unit.
On initial commissioning.

130

Difficult

Under Regulation (EU) 2024/573, a leakage detection system is mandatory when:


the F-gas charge of the refrigeration equipment is 500 t CO₂ eq or more
the equipment operates in an enclosed space
the charge is 100 kg or more of ozone-depleting substances
the equipment contains a flammable refrigerant in any quantity

131

Difficult

Which leak-checking method may NOT be used by a holder of a Category E certificate?


Visual inspection
Leak checking with a fluorescent dye introduced into the circuit
Measurement with a handheld electronic detector
Checking with a foaming solution

132

Difficult

Within what timeframe must a leak test be carried out on a stationary refrigeration system after a leak has been repaired, in accordance with EU Regulation 2024/573 on F-gases?


At any time.
Between 24 hours and 1 month after the repair.
Immediately after the repair.
At the next periodic inspection.

133

Difficult

How often must refrigeration equipment containing ≥500 t CO₂ eq of F-gases be checked if (contrary to Article 6) no leakage detection system is installed?


Every month
Every 6 months
Every 12 months
Every 3 months

134

Difficult

What is the basis of the GWP values in Regulation (EU) 2024/573?


For HFCs (Annex I) – mainly the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report (AR4); for HFOs and non-fluorinated substances (Annexes II and VI) – the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6)
AR6 for all substances
AR4 for all substances
Each Member State sets its own GWP values

135

Difficult

An air conditioner (not hermetically sealed) contains 2.5 kg of R410A (GWP 2088). How often must it be checked for leaks?


At least every 12 months (5.22 t CO₂ eq)
Every 6 months
Every 3 months
No checks required (below 3 kg)

136

Difficult

When is labelled hermetically sealed equipment containing HFCs (Annex I) exempt from leak checks?


When it contains less than 5 t CO₂ eq
When it contains less than 10 t CO₂ eq, and in residential buildings also when it contains less than 3 kg of F-gases
Never – hermetically sealed equipment is always checked
Always, regardless of charge

137

Difficult

Is a chiller containing 50 kg of R1234ze(E) subject to leak checks under Regulation (EU) 2024/573?


No – the threshold is 5 t CO₂ eq and 50 kg of R1234ze is below 1 t CO₂ eq
No – HFOs are not subject to leak checks
Yes – every 12 months, because its GWP is low
Yes – at least every 6 months (every 12 months with a leakage detection system)

138

Difficult

In 2026, may an existing refrigeration installation using R404A (GWP 3922) be topped up with virgin refrigerant?


No – only reclaimed or recycled R404A is allowed (until 1 January 2030)
Yes – the ban applies only to equipment ≥40 t CO₂ eq
Yes – bans apply only to new equipment
Yes, if the equipment has a leakage detection system

139

Difficult

After 1 January 2026, may an R410A (GWP 2088) air conditioner be serviced using virgin R410A?


Yes – the servicing ban for air conditioners and heat pumps covers F-gases with GWP ≥ 2500
No – the ban covers all refrigerants with GWP ≥ 750
Only with reclaimed refrigerant
No – the ban covers all HFCs

140

Difficult

Since 1 January 2025, may a new single-split air conditioner containing 1.5 kg of R410A be placed on the market?


Yes, if the unit is hermetically sealed
Yes – the ban applies only to units >12 kW
No – single splits <3 kg with F-gases of GWP ≥ 750 are banned
Yes – the ban applies from 2029

141

Difficult

From when is it prohibited to place on the market split air-to-air systems up to 12 kW containing F-gases with GWP ≥150 (unless required for safety)?


From 1 January 2025
From 1 January 2035
From 1 January 2029
From 1 January 2027

142

Difficult

Which persistent atmospheric degradation product of R1234yf is classed as a PFAS?


Carbon dioxide
Carbonic acid
Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)
Ozone

143

Difficult

What is the maximum R290 charge per circuit of a commercial refrigerating appliance (e.g. a cabinet) according to EN IEC 60335-2-89:2022?


150 g
1.5 kg
1.2 kg
13 × LFL ≈ 494 g

144

Difficult

Calculate the maximum R32 charge (LFL = 0.307 kg/m³) for a wall-mounted air conditioner (h₀ = 1.8 m) in a 20 m² room using m_max = 2.5 × LFL^1.25 × h₀ × A^0.5.


approx. 13.8 kg
approx. 0.46 kg
approx. 1.5 kg
approx. 4.6 kg

145

Difficult

What is the maximum quantity of R290 (class 2, group F) that may be carried per transport unit under the ADR 1.1.3.6 exemption?


1000 kg
Unlimited
20 kg
333 kg

146

Difficult

What is the charge limit m₃ = 130 m³ × LFL for R290 (LFL = 0.038 kg/m³) according to IEC 60335-2-40?


approx. 0.15 kg
approx. 13 kg
approx. 4.94 kg
approx. 0.99 kg

147

Difficult

Why does the efficiency of transcritical CO₂ systems fall in warm climates, and how is this mitigated?


Efficiency does not depend on climate
CO₂ freezes in the gas cooler – heaters are used
At high ambient temperatures the system operates transcritically with large throttling losses – parallel compression and ejectors are used, among others
Gas cooler pressure drops – extra charge is added