Which refrigerant is commonly used for low-temperature applications?

R-404A is widely recognized for its effectiveness in low-temperature refrigeration applications. It is a blend of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) that is especially suited for commercial refrigeration, such as in freezer cases, ice cream machines, and cold storage facilities. Its low-temperature performance is superior compared to many other refrigerants, enabling efficient heat absorption and reliable cooling at temperatures that can be significantly below freezing.

Other refrigerants, while used in refrigeration, may not provide the same level of efficiency or effectiveness in low-temperature scenarios. For instance, R-12 is an older refrigerant that has been phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties. R-134a, although used in various cooling applications, is primarily found in medium-temperature settings rather than low-temperature ones. R-22, while commonly associated with air conditioning, is not the preferred choice for low-temperature applications due to its lesser cooling capacity compared to R-404A in those conditions.

Thus, R-404A's formulation and characteristics make it the go-to refrigerant for systems requiring low-temperature operation.