Federal Register: December 20, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 245)
DOCID: FR Doc 02-32130
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Environmental Protection Agency
CFR Citation: 40 CFR Part 82
RIN ID: RIN 2060-AG12
FRL ID: [FRL-7425-6]
NOTICE: RULES
ACTION: Air programs:
DOCUMENT ACTION: Notice of acceptability.
SUBJECT CATEGORY:
Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Notice 17 for Significant New Alternatives Policy Program
EFFECTIVE DATES: December 20, 2002.
DOCUMENT SUMMARY:
This notice of acceptability expands the list of acceptable substitutes for ozonedepleting substances (ODS) under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program. The substitutes are for use in the following sectors: refrigeration and air conditioning, solvents cleaning, fire suppression and explosion protection, and aerosols.
SUMMARY:
Stratospheric ozone protection—; Ozone-depleting substances; substitutes list,
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
I. Listing of Acceptable Substitutes
A. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
B. Solvent Cleaning
C. Fire Suppression
D. Aerosols
II. Section 612 Program
A. Statutory Requirements
B. Regulatory History
Appendix ASummary of Acceptable Decisions
I. Listing of Acceptable Substitutes
This section presents EPA's most recent acceptable listing decisions for substitutes in the following industrial sectors: refrigeration and air conditioning, solvent cleaning, fire suppression and explosion protection, and aerosols. For copies of the full list of SNAP decisions in all industrial sectors, visit EPA's Ozone Depletion web site at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/snap/lists/index.html.
The sections below discuss the substitute listing in detail. Appendix A contains a table summarizing today's listing decisions. The statements in the ``Further Information'' column in the table provide additional information, but are not legally binding under section 612 of the Clean Air Act. In addition, the ``further information'' may not be a comprehensive list of other legal obligations you may need to meet when using the substitute. Although you are not required to follow recommendations in the ``further information'' column of the table to use a substitute, EPA strongly encourages you to apply the information when using these substitutes. In many instances, the information simply refers to standard operating practices in existing industry and/or buildingcode standards. Thus, many of these statements, if adopted, would not require significant changes to existing operating practices.
Submissions to EPA for the use of the substitutes listed in this
document may be found under category VID of EPA air docket A9142 at
the address described above under ADDRESSES. You can find other
materials supporting the decisions in this action under category IXB of EPA docket A9142.
A. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
1. and 2. R404A and R507A
EPA's decision: R404A and R507A are acceptable for use in new and
retrofit equipment as substitutes for HCFC22 and HCFC blends
including, but not limited to, R401A, R401B, R402A, R402B, R406A,
R408A, R409A, R411A, R411B, R411C, R414A, R414B, and R416A in: [sbull] Retail food refrigeration
[sbull] Cold storage warehouses
[sbull] Commercial ice machines
[sbull] Refrigerated transport
[sbull] Ice skating rinks
[sbull] Water coolers
[sbull] Residential dehumidifiers
[sbull] Vending machines
[sbull] Industrial process air conditioning
[sbull] Reciprocating chillers
[sbull] Screw chillers
[sbull] Centrifugal chillers
[sbull] Industrial process refrigeration
[sbull] Very low temperature refrigeration
[sbull] Nonmechanical heat transfer systems
[sbull] Household refrigerators and freezers
[sbull] Household and light commercial air conditioning
R404A is a blend of 44% by weight HFC125 (pentafluoroethane), 52% by weight HFC143a (1,1,1trifluoroethane) and 4% by weight HFC134a (1,1,1,2tetrafluoroethane). You may find the submission under EPA Air Docket A9142, items VID284 and VID287. R507A, also known as R 507, is a blend of 50% by weight HFC125 (pentafluoroethane) and 50% by weight HFC143a (1,1,1trifluoroethane).
EPA previously listed both R404A and R507A as acceptable alternatives for various CFCs (e.g., R12) and CFCcontaining blends (e.g., R500 and R502) in several applications in the original SNAP rulemaking published in the Federal Register on March 18, 1994 (59 FR 13044) and in subsequent SNAP Notices (August 26, 1994, 59 FR 44240; January 13, 1995, 60 FR 3318). EPA previously listed R404A and R507A as acceptable substitutes for HCFC22 in various end uses (March 22, 2002, 67 FR 13272 for R404A; September 5, 1996, 61 FR 47012 for R 507A). Since that time, many users have switched directly from CFCs to R404A or R507A, while others have switched to HCFC22 or many different HCFC blends found acceptable under various SNAP rulemakings and notices. Today's decision finds it acceptable to switch from HCFC 22 and HCFC blends to R404A or R507A in the end uses listed above. Environmental Information
The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of R404A and of R507A is zero. The Global Warming Potentials (GWP) of HFC125, HFC143a and HFC 134a are 3400, 4300 and 1300, respectively (relative to carbon dioxide, using a 100year time horizon).
All components of these blends have been exempted from listing as a volatile organic compound (VOC) under Clean Air Act regulations concerning the development of state implementation plans (SIPs) at 40 CFR 51.100(s).
Flammability Information
While HFC143a is moderately flammable, the blends are not flammable.
Toxicity and Exposure Data
All components of the blend have workplace environmental exposure limits (WEELs) of 1000 ppm established by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). EPA expects users to follow all recommendations specified in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the blend and the individual components and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. We also expect that users of R404A and R507A will adhere to the AIHA's WEELs. Comparison to Other Refrigerants
R404A and R507A are not ozone depleting; thus, they reduce risk from ozone depletion compared to HCFC22, the ODS they replace, and blends containing HCFCs. Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, we find that R404A and R507A are acceptable because they reduce overall risk to public health and the environment in the end uses listed.
3. RS24
EPA's decision: RS24 is acceptable for use in new and retrofit
equipment as a substitute for CFC12 in the following end uses: [sbull] Industrial process refrigeration
[sbull] Industrial process air conditioning
[sbull] Ice skating rinks
[sbull] Cold storage warehouses
[sbull] Refrigerated transport
[sbull] Retail food refrigeration
[sbull] Vending machines
[sbull] Water coolers
[sbull] Commercial ice machines
[sbull] Household refrigerators and freezers
[sbull] Residential dehumidifiers
RS24 is acceptable, subject to use conditions, for use in new and retrofit
[[Page 77929]]
equipment as a substitute for CFC12 in the following end use: [sbull] Motor vehicle air conditioning
Conditions for Use in Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning Systems
Regulations regarding recycling and prohibiting venting issued under section 609 of the Clean Air Act apply to this blend (subpart B of 40 CFR part 82).
On October 16, 1996, (61 FR 54029), EPA promulgated a final rule
that prospectively applied certain conditions on the use of any
refrigerant used as a substitute for CFC12 in motor vehicle air
conditioning systems (Appendix D of subpart G of 40 CFR part 82). That
rule provided that EPA would list new refrigerants in future notices of
acceptability. Therefore, the use of RS24 as a CFC12 substitute in
motor vehicle air conditioning systems must follow the standard conditions imposed on previous refrigerants, including:
[sbull] The use of unique fittings designed by the refrigerant manufacturer,
[sbull] The application of a detailed label,
[sbull] The removal of the original refrigerant prior to charging with RS24, and
[sbull] The installation of a highpressure compressor cutoff switch on systems equipped with pressure relief devices.
The October 16, 1996, rule gives full details on these use conditions.
You must use the following fittings to use RS24 in motor vehicle air conditioning systems:
Diameter
Fitting type (inches) Thread pitch (threads/inch) Thread direction
Lowside service port................ ........... quickconnect................ .............................
Highside service port............... ........... quickconnect................ .............................
Large containers (
The quickconnect fittings have been reviewed and found to be sufficiently different from HFC134a and FRIGC FR12 quickconnect fittings to be considered unique. The labels will have a gold background and black text.
The submitter of RS24 claims that the composition of this HFC blend is confidential business information. You can find a version of the submission with information claimed confidential by the submitter removed in EPA Air Docket A9142, item VID281.
Environmental Information
The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of RS24 is zero. The Global Warming Potentials (GWPs) of the constituents are between zero and approximately 4000 (relative to carbon dioxide, using a 100year time horizon).
At least one component of this blend has not been exempted from listing as a VOC under Clean Air Act regulations concerning the development of SIPs at 40 CFR 51.100(s).
Flammability Information
While at least one component of the blend is moderately flammable, the blend is not flammable.
Toxicity and Exposure Data
Components of the blend have workplace guidance level exposure limits on the order of 500 to 1000 ppm. EPA believes this exposure limit will be protective of human health and safety. EPA expects users to follow all recommendations specified in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the blend and the individual components and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Comparison to Other Refrigerants
RS24 is not an ozone depleter; thus, it reduces risk from ozone depletion compared to CFC12, the ODS it replaces. RS24 has a comparable or lower GWP than the other substitutes for CFC12. Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, we find that RS24 is acceptable because it reduces overall risk to public health and the environment in the end uses listed.
4. NU22
EPA's decision: NU22 [R125/134a/600 (46.6/50.0/3.4)] is
acceptable for use in new and retrofit equipment as a substitute for R 502 in:
[sbull] Industrial process refrigeration
[sbull] Industrial process airconditioning
[sbull] Cold storage warehouses
[sbull] Refrigerated transport
[sbull] Retail food refrigeration
[sbull] Commercial ice machines
[sbull] Vending machines
[sbull] Water coolers
[sbull] Ice skating rinks
NU22 is a blend of 46.6 percent HFC125, 50.0 percent HFC134a, and 3.4 percent nbutane.
You can find the most recent submission in EPA Air Docket A9142, item VID286.
In SNAP Notice of Acceptability
Environmental Information
For environmental information on HFC125 and HFC134a, see above in section I.A.1 for R404A. The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of NU22 is zero. The Global Warming Potential (GWP) of butane is less than 10 (relative to carbon dioxide, using a 100year time horizon). Butane is a VOC under Clean Air Act regulations concerning the development of SIPs at 40 CFR 51.100(s).
Flammability Information
While butane, one component of the blend, is flammable, the blend is not flammable.
Toxicity and Exposure Data
HFC125 and HFC134a have guidance level WEELs of 1000 ppm established by the AIHA. Butane has a threshold limit value (TLV) of 800 ppm established by the American Conference of Goverment Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). EPA expects users to follow all recommendations specified in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the blend and the individual components and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. We also expect that users of NU22 will adhere to the AIHA's WEELs and the ACGIH's TLVs. Comparison to Other Refrigerants
NU22 is not an ozone depleter; thus, it reduces risk from ozone
depletion compared to R502, the ODS it replaces. NU22 has a
comparable or lower GWP than the other substitutes for R502.
Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, we
find that NU22 is acceptable because it reduces overall risk to public health and the environment in the end uses listed.
[[Page 77930]]
5. R407C
EPA's decision: R407C is acceptable for use in new and retrofit
equipment as a substitute for HCFC22 and HCFC blends including, but
not limited to, R401A, R401B, R402A, R402B, R406A, R408A, R409A, R411A, R411B, R411C, R414A, R414B, and R416A in:
[sbull] Retail food refrigeration
[sbull] Cold storage warehouses
[sbull] Commercial ice machines
[sbull] Refrigerated transport
[sbull] Ice skating rinks
[sbull] Water coolers
[sbull] Residential dehumidifiers
[sbull] Vending machines
[sbull] Industrial process air conditioning
[sbull] Reciprocating chillers
[sbull] Screw chillers
[sbull] Centrifugal chillers
[sbull] Industrial process refrigeration
[sbull] Very low temperature refrigeration
[sbull] Nonmechanical heat transfer systems
[sbull] Household refrigerators and freezers
[sbull] Household and light commercial air conditioning
R407C is a blend of 23% by weight HFC32 (difluoromethane), 25% by weight HFC125 (pentafluoroethane) and 52% by weight HFC134a (1,1,1,2 tetrafluoroethane).
EPA previously listed R407C as an acceptable alternative for HCFC 22 and CFCs in various end uses under SNAP (February 8, 1996; 61 FR 4736). Since that time, many users have switched to R407C, while others have switched to many different HCFC blends found acceptable under various SNAP rulemakings and notices. Today's decision finds it acceptable to switch from HCFC blends to R407C.
Environmental Information
The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of R407C is zero. The Global Warming Potentials (GWP) of HFC125, HFC32 and HFC134a are 3400, 880, and 1300, respectively (relative to carbon dioxide, using a 100year time horizon).
HFC32 is the only component of this blend that is a VOC under Clean Air Act regulations.
Flammability Information
While HFC32 is moderately flammable, the blend is not flammable. Toxicity and Exposure Data
All components of the blend have workplace environmental exposure limits (WEELs) of 1000 ppm established by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). EPA expects users to follow all recommendations specified in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the blend and the individual components and other safety precautions common in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. We also expect that users of R407C will adhere to the AIHA's WEELs. Comparison to Other Refrigerants
R407C is not an ozone depleter; thus, it reduces risk from ozone depletion compared to HCFC22, the ODS it replaces, and blends containing HCFCs. R407C has a comparable or lower GWP than the other substitutes for HCFC22. Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, we find that R407C is acceptable because it reduces overall risk to public health and the environment in the end uses listed.
6. R410A
EPA's decision: R410A is acceptable for use in new equipment as a
substitute for HCFC blends including, but not limited to, R401A, R
401B, R402A, R402B, R406A, R408A, R409A, R411A, R411B, R411C, R414A, R414B, and R416A in:
[sbull] Retail food refrigeration
[sbull] Cold storage warehouses
[sbull] Commercial ice machines
[sbull] Refrigerated transport
[sbull] Ice skating rinks
[sbull] Water coolers
[sbull] Residential dehumidifiers
[sbull] Vending machines
[sbull] Industrial process air conditioning
[sbull] Reciprocating chillers
[sbull] Screw chillers
[sbull] Centrifugal chillers
[sbull] Industrial process refrigeration
[sbull] Very low temperature refrigeration
[sbull] Nonmechanical heat transfer systems
[sbull] Household refrigerators and freezers
[sbull] Household and light commercial air conditioning
R410A is a blend of 50% by weight HFC32 (difluoromethane) and 50% by weight HFC125 (pentafluoroethane).
EPA previously listed R410A as an acceptable alternative for HCFC 22 and CFCs in various end uses under SNAP (February 8, 1996; 61 FR 4736). Since that time, many users have switched to R410A, while others have switched to many different HCFC blends found acceptable under various SNAP rulemakings and notices. Today's decision finds it acceptable to switch from HCFC blends to R410A.
Environmental Information
The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of R410A is zero. For environmental information about HFC125, see section I.A.1 above for R 404A; for environmental information about HFC32, see section I.A.5 above for R407C.
Flammability Information
While HFC32 is moderately flammable, the blend is not flammable. Toxicity and Exposure Data
For toxicity and exposure data on HFC125 and HFC32, see section I.A.5 above for R407C. We expect that users of R410A will adhere to the AIHA's WEELs.
Comparison to Other Refrigerants
R410A is not an ozone depleter; thus, it reduces risk from ozone depletion compared to HCFC22, the ODS it replaces, and blends containing HCFCs. Flammability and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, we find that R410A is acceptable because it reduces overall risk to public health and the environment in the end uses listed.
7. R414B
EPA's decision: R414B [R22/124/600a/142b (50/39/1.5/9.5)] is acceptable for use in new and retrofit equipment as a substitute for CFC12 and CFC114 in:
[sbull] Industrial process air conditioning
R414B, sold under the trade name Hot Shot, is a blend of 50% by weight HCFC22 (chlorodifluoromethane), 39% by weight HCFC124 (2 chloro1,1,1,2tetrafluoroethane), 1.5% by weight R600a (isobutane) and 9.5% by weight HCFC142b (1chloro1,1difluoroethane). You may find the submission under EPA Air Docket A9142, item VID289.
EPA previously listed R414B as an acceptable alternative for CFC 12 and R500 in several enduses under SNAP (September 5, 1996; 61 FR 47012) and found it acceptable subject to use conditions as a CFC12 alternative in motor vehicle air conditioners (October 16, 1996; 61 FR 54029). Today's decision extends this decision to an additional end use.
Environmental Information
The ozone depletion potentials (ODPs) of HCFC22, HCFC124 and HCFC142b are 0.055, 0.022 and 0.065, respectively. The global warming potentials (GWPs) are 1700, 620 and 2400, respectively (relative to carbon dioxide, using a 100year time horizon).
Isobutane is under Clean Air Act regulations concerning the development of SIPs at 40 CFR 51.100(s).
Flammability Information
While HCFC142b and isobutane are flammable, the blend is not flammable.
Toxicity and Exposure Data
HCFC22, HCFC124 and HCFC142b have workplace environmental exposure
[[Page 77931]]
limits (WEELs) established by the American Industrial Hygiene
Association (AIHA) or threshold limit value (TLV) established by the
American Conference of Goverment Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) of 1000
ppm. Isobutane has a recommended exposure limit (REL) of 800 ppm
established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH). EPA expects users to follow all recommendations
specified in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the blend and
the individual components and other safety precautions common in the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry. We also expect that users of R414B will adhere to all recommended exposure limits.
Comparison to Other Refrigerants
R414B has a much lower ozonedepletion potential than CFC12 and
CFC114, the ODSs it replaces; thus, it reduces risk from ozone
depletion. R414B has a comparable or lower GWP than the other
substitutes for CFC12 and CFC114 in the enduse listed. Flammability
and toxicity risks are low, as discussed above. Thus, we find that R
414B is acceptable because it reduces overall risk to public health and the environment in the end use listed.
B. Solvent Cleaning
1. HCFC225ca/cb
EPA's Decision: HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb are acceptable for use as
a substitute for CFC113 and methyl chloroform in the metals cleaning end use.
HCFC225ca is also called 3,3dichloro1,1,1,2,2
pentafluoropropane. HCFC225cb is also called 1,3dichloro1,1,2,2,3
pentafluoropropane. They are sold in a commercial blend of 45% of the ca isomer and 55% of the cb isomer (``HCFCca/cb'').
EPA has previously found HCFC225ca/cb acceptable subject to use conditions for use in solvents cleaning in the precision cleaning and electronics cleaning end uses (June 13, 1995, 60 FR 31092) and acceptable for use in aerosol solvents (April 28, 1999, 64 FR 22981). Environmental Information
HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb have ozone depletion potentials (ODPs), respectively, of 0.025 and 0.033. HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb have global warming potentials (GWPs) of 180 and 620, respectively, over a 100year time horizon. HCFC225ca has an atmospheric lifetime (ALT) of 2.1 years and HCFC225cb has an ALT of 6.2 years.
HCFC225ca, HCFC225cb, and the commercial blend of HCFC225ca/cb have been exempted from listing as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) under Clean Air Act regulations concerning the development of state implementation plans at 40 CFR 51.100(s).
Flammability
HCFC225ca, HCFC225cb, and the commercial blend of HCFC225ca/cb are nonflammable.
Toxicity and Exposure Data
The manufacturer's recommended exposure guidelines over an eight
hour timeweighted average are 50 ppm for HCFC225ca, 400 ppm for HCFC
225cb, and 100 ppm for the commercial mixture of HCFC225ca/cb. EPA
initially established a use condition for HCFC225ca/cb in the
precision cleaning and electronics cleaning end uses and did not issue
an acceptability determination for the metal cleaning end use because
of earlier data indicating the exposure guideline for the commercial
mixture should be only 50 ppm. More recent analysis of the
toxicological data indicate that a higher exposure guideline is
appropriate (SNAP Notice
Comparison to Other Cleaning Solvents
HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb have ODPs of 0.025 and 0.033,
respectively; thus, they reduce risk overall compared to CFC113 and
methyl chloroform, the ODSs they replace. HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb
have comparable or lower GWP than some acceptable substitutes for CFC
113 and methyl chloroform. HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb are nonflammable.
HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb are VOCexempt. Thus, we find that HCFC
225ca, HCFC225cb, and the commercial blend of HCFC225ca/cb are
acceptable because they reduce overall risk to public health and the environment in the end use listed.
C. Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
1. C6perfluoroketone
EPA's decision: C6perfluoroketone is acceptable as a substitute for halon 1301 in the total flooding end use for both normally occupied and unoccupied spaces.
C6perfluoroketone is comprised of a perfluoroalkyl ketone (1,1,1,2,2,4,5,5,5nonafluoro4(trifluoromethyl)3pentanone). It is marketed under the trade name Novec1230. Other names include FK51 12mmy2, perfluoro2methyl3pentanone, and L15566. You can find a version of the submission with information claimed confidential by the submitter removed in EPA Air Docket A9142, items VID269 and VID 277. Additional information on this fire suppressant is available in EPA Air Docket A200208.
Environmental Information
C6perfluoroketone has no ozonedepletion potential, a global
warming potential of six to 100 relative to CO
C6perfluoroketone is nonflammable.
Toxicity and Exposure Data
The C6perfluoroketone was assayed for its ability to induce cardiac sensitization in the beagle dog (Huntington 2001). In that study, the cardiotoxic NOAEL was determined to be 10 percent. The manufacturer's maximum design concentration of 6.44 percent is significantly below the cardiotoxic NOAEL.
Appropriate protective measures should be taken and proper training
administered for the manufacture, cleanup and disposal of this product
and for the installation and maintenance of the total flooding systems
using this product. EPA recommends the following for establishments
installing and maintaining total flooding systems using this agent: [sbull] Install and use adequate ventilation;
[sbull] Clean up all spills immediately in accordance with good industrial hygiene practices;
[sbull] Provide training for safe handling procedures to all
employees that would be likely to handle containers of the agent or extinguishing units filled with the agent; and
[sbull] Provide safety features such as predischarge alarms, time
delays, and system abort switches, as directed by applicable OSHA
regulations and NFPA standards. EPA recommends that unnecessary
exposure to fire suppression agents and their decomposition products be
avoided and that personnel exposure be limited to no more than 5 minutes.
Use of this agent should conform with relevant Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, including 29 CFR 1910,
subpart L, sections 1910.160 and 1910.162. EPA expects that users will
follow the safety guidelines in the NFPA 2001 standard for clean agent
fire extinguishing systems and the guidelines in the manufacturer's MSDSs.
[[Page 77932]]
Comparison to Other Fire Suppressants
EPA has reviewed the potential environmental impacts of this
substitute and has concluded that, by comparison to halon 1301 and
other acceptable substitutes, C6perfluoroketone significantly reduces
overall risk to the environment. With no ozonedepletion potential, a
global warming potential value of less than 100, and an atmospheric
lifetime of less than three days, C6perfluoroketone provides an
improvement over use of halon 1301, hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)
and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in fire protection. We find that C6
perfluoroketone is acceptable because it reduces overall risk to public health and the environment in the end use listed.
D. Aerosols
1. HCFC225ca/cb
EPA's Decision: HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb are acceptable for use as a substitute for HCFC141b in the aerosol solvent end use.
For further information on HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb, see section B., Solvent Cleaning, above.
Comparison to Other Aerosol Solvents
HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb have ODPs of 0.025 and 0.033, while HCFC 141b has an ODP of 0.11; thus, HCFC225ca and 225cb reduce risk overall compared to HCFC141b, the ODS they replace. HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb have GWPs of 180 and 620, respectively, which are comparable or lower than the GWP of HCFC141b (700) and the GWPs of some acceptable substitutes for HCFC141b. HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb are nonflammable. They are less toxic than some other acceptable substitutes for HCFC141b. HCFC225ca and 225cb are VOCexempt and are not hazardous air pollutants, unlike many alternatives in this end use. Therefore, we find that HCFC225ca, HCFC225cb, and the commercial blend of HCFC225ca/cb are acceptable because they reduce overall risk to public health and the environment in the end use listed. II. Section 612 Program
A. Statutory Requirements
Section 612 of the Clean Air Act authorizes EPA to develop a
program for evaluating alternatives to ozonedepleting substances. We
refer to this program as the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program. The major provisions of section 612 are:
[sbull] RulemakingSection 612(c) requires EPA to promulgate rules
making it unlawful to replace any class I (chlorofluorocarbon, halon,
carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, methyl bromide, and
hydrobromofluorocarbon) or class II (hydrochlorofluorocarbon) substance
with any substitute that the Administrator determines may present
adverse effects to human health or the environment where the
Administrator has identified an alternative that (1) reduces the
overall risk to human health and the environment, and (2) is currently or potentially available.
[sbull] Listing of Unacceptable/Acceptable SubstitutesSection
612(c) also requires EPA to publish a list of the substitutes
unacceptable for specific uses. EPA must publish a corresponding list of acceptable alternatives for specific uses.
[sbull] Petition ProcessSection 612(d) grants the right to any
person to petition EPA to add a substance to or delete a substance from
the lists published in accordance with section 612(c). The Agency has
90 days to grant or deny a petition. Where the Agency grants the
petition, it must publish the revised lists within an additional six months.
[sbull] 90day NotificationSection 612(e) directs EPA to require
any person who produces a chemical substitute for a class I substance
to notify the Agency not less than 90 days before new or existing
chemicals are introduced into interstate commerce for significant new
uses as substitutes for a class I substance. The producer must also
provide the Agency with the producer's unpublished health and safety studies on such substitutes.
[sbull] OutreachSection 612(b)(1) states that the Administrator
shall seek to maximize the use of federal research facilities and
resources to assist users of class I and II substances in identifying
and developing alternatives to the use of such substances in key commercial applications.
[sbull] ClearinghouseSection 612(b)(4) requires the Agency to set
up a public clearinghouse of alternative chemicals, product
substitutes, and alternative manufacturing processes that are available
for products and manufacturing processes which use class I and II substances.
B. Regulatory History
On March 18, 1994, EPA published the final rulemaking (59 FR 13044)
which described the process for administering the SNAP program. In the
same notice, we issued the first acceptability lists for substitutes in the major industrial use sectors. These sectors include:
[sbull] Refrigeration and air conditioning;
[sbull] Foam blowing;
[sbull] Solvents cleaning;
[sbull] Fire suppression and explosion protection;
[sbull] Sterilants;
[sbull] Aerosols;
[sbull] Adhesives, coatings and inks; and
[sbull] Tobacco expansion.
These sectors compose the principal industrial sectors that historically consumed the largest volumes of ozonedepleting compounds.
As described in this original rule for the SNAP program, EPA does not believe that rulemaking procedures are required to list alternatives as acceptable with no limitations. Such listings do not impose any sanction, nor do they remove any prior license to use a substance. Therefore, by this notice we are adding substances to the list of acceptable alternatives without first requesting comment on new listings.
However, we do believe that noticeandcomment rulemaking is required to place any substance on the list of prohibited substitutes, to list a substance as acceptable only under certain conditions, to list substances as acceptable only for certain uses, or to remove a substance from the lists of prohibited or acceptable substitutes. We publish updates to these lists as separate notices of rulemaking in the Federal Register.
The Agency defines a ``substitute'' as any chemical, product substitute, or alternative manufacturing process, whether existing or new, intended for use as a replacement for a class I or class II substance. Anyone who produces a substitute must provide EPA with health and safety studies on the substitute at least 90 days before introducing it into interstate commerce for significant new use as an alternative. This requirement applies to substitute manufacturers, but may include importers, formulators, or endusers, when they are responsible for introducing a substitute into commerce.
You can find a complete chronology of SNAP decisions and the appropriate Federal Register citations from the SNAP section of EPA's Ozone Depletion World Wide Web site at www.epa.gov/ozone/title6/snap/chron.html. This information is also available from the Air Docket (see ADDRESSES section above for contact information).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 82
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure, Air pollution control, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: December 9, 2002.
Brian J. McLean,
Director, Office of Atmospheric Programs, Office of Air and Radiation. Appendix A: Summary of Acceptable Decisions
[[Page 77933]]
Refrigeration and AirConditioning
EndUse Substitute Decision Further information
Industrial process refrigeration RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... (retrofit and new). CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note \1\
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Industrial process refrigeration R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
(new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Industrial process air conditioning RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... (retrofit and new). CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note for HCFC22 and HCFC
blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note for HCFC22 and HCFC
blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note for HCFC22 and HCFC
blends.
R414B as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... for CFC12 and CFC14.
Industrial process air conditioning R410A as a substitute for Acceptable See note
(new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Ice skating rinks (retrofit and RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... new). CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Ice skating rinks (new)............ R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Cold storage warehouses (retrofit RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... and new). CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Cold storage warehouses (new)...... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Refrigerated transport (retrofit RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... and new). CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Refrigerated transport (new)....... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Retail food refrigeration (retrofit RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... and new). CFC12.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Retail food refrigeration (new).... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Vending machines (retrofit and new) RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends. [[Page 77934]]
Vending machines (new)............. R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Water coolers (retrofit and new)... RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Water coolers (new)................ R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Commercial ice machines (retrofit RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... and new). CFC12.
NU22 as a substitute for R Acceptable ...................... 502.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Commercial ice machines (new)...... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Household refrigerators and R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ freezers (retrofit and new). CFC12.
RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable ...................... CFC12.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Household refrigerators and R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
freezers (new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Reciprocating chillers (retrofit R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
and new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Reciprocating chillers (new)....... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Centrifugal chillers (retrofit and R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Centrifugal chillers (new)......... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Screw chillers (retrofit and new).. R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Screw chillers (new)............... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Very low temperature refrigeration R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
(retrofit and new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Very low temperature refrigeration R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
(new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Nonmechanical heat transfer R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
systems (retrofit and new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Nonmechanical heat transfer R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
systems (new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends. [[Page 77935]]
Household and light commercial air
conditioning (retrofit and new).
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Household and light commercial air R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
conditioning (new). HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Residential dehumidifiers (retrofit RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable............ ...................... and new). CFC12.
R404A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R507A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
R407C as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Residential dehumidifiers (new).... R410A as a substitute for Acceptable............ See note
HCFC22 and HCFC blends.
Motor vehicle air conditioning RS24 as a substitute for Acceptable subject to Users must use the
(retrofit and new). CFC12. use conditions. unique fittings and
label specified by
the manufacturer. Use
is subject to
requirements under
Sec. 609 of the
Clean Air Act.
\1\ Note: HCFC blends include, but are not limited to, R410A, R401B, R402A, R402B, R406A, R408A, R409A, R 411A, R411B, R411C, R414A, R414B, and R416.
Solvent Cleaning
EndUse Substitute Decision Further Information
Metal cleaning.............. HCFC225ca and HCFC225cb as a Acceptable........ EPA recommends
substitute for CFC113 and methyl observing the
chloroform. manufacturer's
recommended
exposure guidelines
of 50 ppm for the
ca isomer, 400 ppm
for the cb isomer,
and 100 ppm for the
commercial mixture
of HCFC225ca/cb.
EPA encourages users
to consider other
alternatives that
do not have an
ozone depletion
potential.
Fire Suppression and Explosion Protection
EndUse Substitute Decision Further Information
Total flooding.............. C6perfluoroketone Acceptable........ Use of the agent should be in accordance
as a substitute for with the safety guidelines in the
Halon 1301. latest edition of the NFPA 2001
Standard for Clean Agent Fire
Extinguishing Systems.
For operations that install and maintain
total flooding systems using this
agent, EPA recommends the following:
Install and use adequate ventilation;
Clean up all spills immediately in
accordance with good industrial hygiene
practices; and
Provide training for safe handling
procedures to all employees that would
be likely to handle containers of the
agent or extinguishing units filled
with the agent.
See additional notes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Additional notes:
1. Should conform with relevant OSHA requirements, including 29 CFR 1910, subpart L, sections 1910.160, 1910.161
(dry chemicals and aerosols) and 1910.162 (gaseous agents).
2. Per OSHA requirements, protective gear (SCBA) should be available in the event personnel should reenter the area.
3. Discharge testing should be strictly limited to that which is essential to meet safety or performance requirements.
[[Page 77936]]
4. The agent should be recovered from the fire protection system in conjunction with testing or servicing, and recycled for later use or destroyed.
5. EPA has no intention of duplicating or displacing OSHA coverage related to the use of personal protective
equipment (e.g., respiratory protection), fire protection, hazard communication, worker training or any other
occupational safety and health standard with respect to halon substitutes.
Aerosols
EndUse Substitute Decision Further Information
Aerosol solvents............ HCFC225ca and HCFC Acceptable........ EPA recommends observing the
225cb as a manufacturer's recommended exposure
substitute for HCFC guidelines of 50 ppm for the ca
141b. isomer, 400 ppm for the cb isomer, and
100 ppm for the commercial mixture of
HCFC225ca/cb.
EPA encourages users to consider other
alternatives that do not have an ozone
depletion potential. [FR Doc. 0232130 Filed 121902; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 656050U
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Margaret Sheppard by telephone at (202) 5649163, by fax at (202) 5652155, by email at
sheppard.margaret@epa.gov, or by mail at U.S. Environmental Protection [[Page 77928]]
Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Mail Code 6205J, Washington, DC
20460. Overnight or courier deliveries should be sent to 501 3rd Street, NW., Washington, DC 20001.
For more information on the Agency's process for administering the
SNAP program or criteria for evaluation of substitutes, refer to the
original SNAP rulemaking published in the Federal Register on March 18,
1994 (59 FR 13044). Notices and rulemakings under the SNAP program, as
well as other EPA publications on protection of stratospheric ozone,
are available from EPA's Ozone Depletion World Wide Web site at http://www.epa.gov/ozone/ including the SNAP portion at http://www.epa.gov/
ozone/snap/.