Sponsored article by Orbia Fluor & Energy Materials
Automotive air-conditioning is undergoing a major shift across Europe as legacy refrigerant R-134a is being phased down under the European Union’s revised F-Gas Regulation and the global Kigali Amendment, due to its high Global Warming Potential (GWP).
The industry has already shifted from R-134a to R-1234yf in newer vehicles, as manufacturers have redesigned systems to make up for performance reduction and to deal with the shift from a non-flammable refrigerant (A1) to a mildly flammable one (A2L).
However, technicians throughout Europe are experiencing high, unstable costs for R-1234yf because of heightened demand and supply chain challenges. Environmentalists have also raised concerns about its high TFA (Trifluoroacetic Acid) transmission.
Instability with incumbent refrigerants threatens long-term availability, leading to a subsequent rise in costs - conditions that are contributing to the illegal imports seen in other European markets.
Technicians need practical, economical, and reliable alternatives that keep all vehicles compliant and operational, helping to avoid costly mistakes and protect customers’ interests.
Klea® Edge™ 444A as a direct replacement for R-1234yf
For vehicles that have already adopted R-1234yf, Klea® Edge™ 444A (R-444A) offers a direct alternative, built to work within existing refrigerant systems.
Designed to be an economic alternative to R-1234yf, it is a cost-effective, low-PFAS replacement that delivers higher cooling performance and improves fuel usage for ICEs and driving range for EVs.
Testing shows the cabin cool-down times are up to four minutes faster than R-1234yf, without requiring system modifications.
Like R-1234yf, Klea® Edge™ 444A is classified as an A2L (mildly flammable), meaning familiar safety procedures apply when handling and servicing. Retrofitting needs to be treated as a controlled conversion, ensuring safety, compliance, and long-term reliability.
With potential new PFAS regulations coming into force, switching to a low-PFAS refrigerant can help garages maintain resilience, avoiding disruptions and unpredictable compliance costs.
Best practices for adopting next-generation refrigerants
For technicians working in the aftermarket, switching refrigerants requires staying informed to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient servicing.
Klea® Edge™ 444A shares the same flammability classifications as the refrigerants they are designed to replace, reducing complexity in day-to-day workshop operations. Proper system labelling remains important during retrofits, ensuring accurate service records, avoiding confusion during future maintenance, and helping garages remain compliant with regulations.
Oil compatibility with existing R-1234yf lubricants further simplifies servicing, though technicians should continue to check manufacturer guidance.
To find out more about how Klea® Edge™ 444A could benefit your garage, visit the Orbia Fluor and Energy Materials team at stand Hall F10, Booth M31 throughout Automechanika.
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