What type of liquid refrigerant is commonly used in the navy?

The choice of R-114 as the common refrigerant in naval applications is based on several factors. R-114 is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) that was historically favored for its stability and effectiveness in a range of temperatures. It provides excellent thermodynamic properties, making it suitable for refrigeration and air conditioning systems used in marine environments.

In naval operations, equipment must often endure extreme conditions, including corrosion from saltwater, pressure variations, and temperature fluctuations. R-114’s properties help ensure efficient heat exchange and system reliability under these demanding conditions. Additionally, R-114 has a relatively low toxicity and is less flammable compared to some other refrigerants, providing added safety in enclosed environments found on ships and submarines.

Other refrigerants mentioned, such as R-22 and R-134a, are more commonly used in commercial and residential applications, while R-410A is primarily used in newer air conditioning systems due to its higher efficiency but is less suited for certain naval requirements. Thus, R-114 remains the more applicable choice for military applications within the navy.