What do the terms "flammability" and "explosive limits" typically refer to in industrial refrigeration contexts?

In the context of industrial refrigeration, the terms "flammability" and "explosive limits" primarily relate to the ability of a refrigerant to ignite and potentially cause a fire or explosion. Flammability indicates the degree to which a substance can catch fire when exposed to an ignition source, while explosive limits define the concentration range of a flammable substance within the air that can lead to an explosion. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for ensuring safe handling, storage, and operation of refrigeration systems that utilize flammable refrigerants, as they could present significant safety risks if not managed properly. Proper knowledge of these properties helps in the implementation of safety measures and compliance with regulations in industrial settings.