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?


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

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

3

Difficult

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


0.5 m
3 m
1 m
2 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)?


18 kg
9 kg
20 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?


0,494 kg
1.0 kg
2.5 kg
10 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
Such systems need not be evacuated before charging
Place the pump directly on the floor, as low as possible
Ignition-source-free pump, good ventilation, exhaust to a safe place

7

Difficult

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


Thick gloves
Tinted safety goggles
A fire extinguisher
A fire blanket

8

Difficult

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


Vent the R32 outdoors, then fill and vent the system with nitrogen three times
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

9

Difficult

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


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

10

Difficult

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


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

11

Difficult

Which of the following is a source of ignition?


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

12

Difficult

What particularly hazardous substance is formed when R32 burns?


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

13

Difficult

What type of refrigerant is R1234ze(E)?


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

14

Difficult

What hazards does a safety group A3 refrigerant pose?


Higher toxicity, moderate flammability
Lower 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))?


1.0 kg
0.285 kg
1.5 kg
4.93 kg

16

Difficult

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


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

17

Difficult

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


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

18

Difficult

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


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

19

Difficult

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


150
7
675
0.02

20

Difficult

Which of the following is NOT a source of ignition?


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

21

Difficult

What is R290?


Propene (Propylene)
Propane
Isobutane
Butane

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?


1.2 kg
2.5 kg
1.5 kg
150 g

23

Difficult

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


A relay is never required for compressors using flammable refrigerants
It could be a source of ignition
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?


3 m
1 m
5 m
10 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. 8 kg
approx. 5.2 kg
approx. 17 kg
20 kg

26

Difficult

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


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
Ignition-source-free pump, good ventilation, exhaust to a safe place

27

Difficult

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


Tinted safety goggles
Thick gloves
A fire blanket
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?


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

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 into the room and open a window
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

30

Difficult

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


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

31

Difficult

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


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

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)?


618 kg
2.27 kg
6.18 kg
227 kg

33

Difficult

What type of refrigerant is R32?


Hydrofluoroolefin
Hydrofluorocarbon
Carbon dioxide
Hydrocarbon

34

Difficult

What hazards do A2L refrigerants pose?


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

35

Difficult

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


Phosgene is formed
Ozone 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?


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

37

Difficult

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


0
675
7
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 of lower operating pressures
The charge mass is much smaller than in an HFC system, because the liquid density of R290 is much lower
Because such systems never have liquid receivers

39

Difficult

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


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

40

Difficult

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


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

41

Difficult

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


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

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 sight glasses and level indicators must not be used in CO₂ systems
Because CO₂ is flammable and separators must not be used
Because of very high pressures – adequate PS and protection devices are required

43

Difficult

What is the critical pressure of CO₂ (R744)?


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

44

Difficult

What characterises the transcritical process in CO₂ systems?


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

45

Difficult

What characterises the subcritical CO₂ process?


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

46

Difficult

When can dry ice (solid CO₂) form?


At high temperature
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
During normal operation of the system
At high pressure

47

Difficult

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


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

48

Difficult

How does CO₂ saturation pressure change as temperature increases?


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

49

Difficult

What happens to CO₂ above the critical point?


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

50

Difficult

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


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)
A dry-expansion evaporator needs no expansion valve, a flooded one does
A dry-expansion evaporator is filled with liquid, a flooded one with vapour
A dry-expansion evaporator always has a lower pressure than a flooded one

51

Difficult

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


Atmospheric pressure, approx. 1 bar abs
Positive pressure of 10–20 bar
Positive pressure of 5–10 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 climate- and environment-neutral
They are very persistent, accumulate in the environment (e.g. water) and may be toxic
They cause rapid cooling of the atmosphere
They are readily biodegradable

53

Difficult

How is oil managed in R717 systems?


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

54

Difficult

What should be done with contaminated R717?


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

55

Difficult

What should be done if an NH₃ leak is detected?


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
Carry on working with the room door open
Carry on working wearing a dust mask

56

Difficult

What role do scrubbers play in NH₃ systems?


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

57

Difficult

How should the system be prepared before filling with R717?


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

58

Difficult

What are the transport requirements for R717?


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

59

Difficult

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


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

60

Difficult

What are the requirements for piping materials in CO₂ systems?


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

61

Difficult

How does a booster system work in CO₂ installations?


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

62

Difficult

Why is pressure optimisation in CO₂ systems crucial?


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

63

Difficult

What role does parallel compression play in CO₂ systems?


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

64

Difficult

How does an ejector work in a CO₂ system?


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
It lowers the evaporator temperature

65

Difficult

What is the function of liquid ejectors in CO₂ systems?


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

66

Difficult

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


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

67

Difficult

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


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

68

Difficult

How is standstill pressure limited in CO₂ systems?


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 raising the plant-room temperature
By increasing the refrigerant charge
By completely shutting down the system and power supply

69

Difficult

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


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

70

Difficult

What must the label of a flammable refrigerant cylinder include?


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

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 wrong oil being selected
It may lead to the use of tools that are ignition sources
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?


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

73

Difficult

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


Controlling compressor capacity
Monitoring pipe pressure
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
According to the manufacturer's instructions and regulations – at least every 12 months
Before every start-up of the unit
Only after a leak has occurred

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
Anywhere in the room
Only at the room entrance

76

Difficult

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


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

77

Difficult

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


Outward-opening doors and signed escape routes (number of exits per the standard)
In small machinery rooms emergency exits need not be signed
At least two exits are required and signage is optional
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?


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

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 doesn't matter
It lowers the temperature
It increases capacity

80

Difficult

Which safety class applies to R744?


A3
A1
A2.
B2L

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

82

Difficult

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


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

83

Difficult

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


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, being heavier than liquid NH₃, collects beneath it at the lowest points (mainly on the low-pressure side)
R717 mixes very well with the oil, which easily returns to the compressor
R717 does not mix with the oil; the oil collects on the high-pressure side above the R717

84

Difficult

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


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

85

Difficult

Which statement about installing Schrader valves is correct?


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

86

Difficult

Which refrigerant can be detected with phenolphthalein paper?


R1234ze(E)
R717
R1270
R744

87

Difficult

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


Discharge pressure higher, subcooling lower
Discharge pressure lower, subcooling higher
Discharge (condensing) pressure and subcooling will both be lower
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 prevent the drain valve on the receiver from opening
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)

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
Formation of hydrogen fluoride and hydrofluoric acid
Excessive discharge pressure

91

Difficult

Which system may require manual oil recovery?


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

92

Difficult

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


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

93

Difficult

Which refrigerant is lighter than air?


R717
R1234ze(E)
R744
R1270

94

Difficult

What hazards are associated with a safety group A3 refrigerant?


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

95

Difficult

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


0
675
6
3922

96

Difficult

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


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


Similar
About 6 times larger
About half
About 1.5 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 high-pressure switch setting
…the same as the relief valve set pressure
…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, for certain substances, electrical resistance is zero
The temperature at which a substance changes from a gaseous to a solid state
The temperature at which the vapour pressure of a liquid is equal to the ambient pressure surrounding the liquid
The temperature above which there are no distinct liquid and gaseous phases

100

Difficult

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


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

101

Difficult

R717 is highly corrosive to:


stainless steel
titanium
aluminium
copper (and its alloys)

102

Difficult

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


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

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 = (p₁ × T₁)/T₂
p₂ = T₁/(p₁ × T₂)
p₂ = T₂/(p₁ × T₁)
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 they are cheaper
Because NH₃ attacks copper motor windings, so hermetic compressors with conventional windings are not used
To lower the condensing pressure

106

Difficult

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


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

107

Difficult

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


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

108

Difficult

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


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

109

Difficult

When is two-stage compression used in NH₃ systems?


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

110

Difficult

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


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

111

Difficult

How does an evaporative condenser used in NH₃ systems work?


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

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 reduce the condensing temperature
To control the condenser fan
To increase the oil volume
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 controls the fan’s operation
It regulates the condensation temperature
It is used to detect leaks
It monitors the liquid level in the tank or separator

115

Difficult

What is a thermosyphon in NH₃ systems?


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
An oil circulation pump
A type of safety valve

116

Difficult

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


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

117

Difficult

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


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

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
An indirect system
A glycol system

119

Difficult

What is the characteristic feature of a flooded evaporator system?


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

120

Difficult

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


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 an indirect system, NH₃ flows directly into the space being cooled
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?


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

122

Difficult

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


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

123

Difficult

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


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
Any leak-testing specialist

124

Difficult

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


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

125

Difficult

Which leak-checking methods are considered direct methods?


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

126

Difficult

What do indirect leak-checking methods involve?


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

127

Difficult

What does a vacuum (decay) test involve?


After isolating the pump, you check whether the system pressure rises
The pump is restarted every time 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.
Once every six months.
At least once every 12 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.
Only when servicing the unit.
Once every six months.
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 charge is 100 kg or more of ozone-depleting substances
the equipment contains a flammable refrigerant in any quantity
the equipment operates in an enclosed space

131

Difficult

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


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

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?


Immediately after the repair.
At any time.
Between 24 hours and 1 month 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 12 months
Every 6 months
Every 3 months
Every month

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?


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

136

Difficult

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


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
When it contains less than 5 t CO₂ eq

137

Difficult

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


Yes – every 12 months, because its GWP is low
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 – 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?


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

139

Difficult

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


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

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

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

142

Difficult

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


Ozone
Carbon dioxide
Carbonic acid
Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)

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. 4.6 kg
approx. 1.5 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?


333 kg
20 kg
Unlimited
1000 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. 13 kg
approx. 4.94 kg
approx. 0.15 kg
approx. 0.99 kg

147

Difficult

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


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
Efficiency does not depend on climate
Gas cooler pressure drops – extra charge is added