The EPA's ban on R12 production gave rise to a new generation of refrigerants. The windshield of a Lexus sedan hurtles across the hood of the car. All four side windows shatter, producing a shower of tiny glass fragments.
Flames engulf the dashboard and sweep the head of the mannequin behind the wheel.
These problems are costly, but they are minor compared to the dangers posed by refrigerant alternatives or mixtures that contain flammables such as propane, butane and isobutane. Even more frightening is the fact that such cases of contamination are not rare. And because few automotive professionals or consumers are aware of the problem, that percentage is expected to increase. But repairers can protect themselves, their equipment and their R12 supply by purchasing an insurance policy in the form of a refrigerant identifier. In a body shop, there are torches going and sparks flying.