REFRIGERANTS
Regulation. The same restrictions will apply to R134a in self- contained units from 2022. As we see the market today,
the main suitable non-flammable replacements for R404A/507 include R448A, R449A, R449B, R452A and R407A/F/H. Suitable replacements for R134a include R513A and R450A, although it should be noted that in stationary e quipment R134a is still an
acceptable refrigerant. This is not an exhaustive list and is based on the best options in 2018. Retrofitting R404A/R507 and R134a systems using new A1 refrigerants with lower GWP eliminates the need to double- check requirements that come with flammable refrigerants. However, there are still some poin ts of
attention that HVACR professionals need to investigate.
For those choosing a long-
term solution, more sustainable alternatives to R404A/R134a are needed.
However, there is an inverse
correlation between a refrigerant’s GWP and its flammability. Many ultra-low GWP refrigerants also have a higher flammability classification than R404A,
potentially requiring a different approach to system design and installation. For those that will consider a flammable refrigerant to comply with F-Gas, propane, or R290 (A3 class), can be a strong replacement for R404A. With a GWP of just 3, R290 is compliant with both current and upcoming F-Gas rules across all equipment types. R600a (isobutane) is already widely used as an R134a replacement in small hermetic systems.
A2L refrigerants – so-called mildly flammable refrigerants – like R454A, R454C or R1234yf or R455A can be interesting low GWP alternatives to R404A and R134a. That said, if you have specific needs and requirements from your refrigerant, you may need to investigate other flammable refrigerant options.
Flammable refrigerants
Flammable refrigerants ■ Check whether your tools (vacuum pump, hoses, etc.) can be used with flammable refrigerants.
■ Be aware of the risks due to flammability when working with these refrigerants
Risks could be:
■ During soldering; make sure there is no remaining refrigerant in the system.
■ In case of potential leaks, avoid ignition sources (for example, light switches).
In case of retrofit:
■ Check compatibility of components for the new
refrigerant: compressor, valves, switches, pipes, heat exchangers. ■ Check whether other electrical components need to be changed, for example:
➤ Can the fans be used with flammable refrigerants?
➤ Is the electrical installation ok for flammable refrigerants?
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Non-flammable refrigerants ■ Your existing tools, such as
Non-flammable refrigerants
vacuum pumps and hoses, can most probably be used.
■ Be aware of charge limits even for non-flammable refrigerants due to new EN 378:2016.
Charge is limited if:
■ Any part of the refrigeration system is indoor
general access to the unit, for example a condensing unit for a cabinet in a butchery.
■ No emergency exit in the room, for example a normal cold room. ■ Room is underground.
How to calculate a charge limit: Toxicity limit of refrigerant x room volume = max charge
Example: R449A in a cold room Toxicity limit: 0.357 kg/m³ (values in Annex of EN 378:2016) Room volume:
3m x 4m x 2.5m = 30m³ Max charge:
0.357 kg/m³ x 30 m³ = 10.7 kg
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