AIR CONDITIONING
The evolution of ACR and alternative refrigerants
Ryan Walton T
Ryan Walton, specifi cation engineer at Panasonic Heating & Cooling, delves into the technical aspects and technological changes associated with alternative refrigerants, investigates the pivotal role of the F-Gas Regulation in expediting market transformation, and underscores the imperative for engineers to update their qualifi cations and skills to ensure the safe handling of novel refrigerants.
he realm of refrigeration and air conditioning is in a state of constant evolution, spurred by ecological
considerations and regulatory mandates. The topic of refrigeration and air conditioning has become a matter of utmost importance, with a growing emphasis on exploring alternative refrigerants as part of global initiatives to counteract the impacts of climate change. Noteworthy manufacturers have taken a proactive stance in this transformative landscape, incorporating advanced technologies and environmentally conscious solutions into their array of off erings. For a considerable span, hydrofl uorocarbons (HFCs) have been widely employed as refrigerants due to their non-toxic nature, zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential), optimal boiling points, low toxicity, and limited fl ammability. However, the use of high Global Warming Potential (GWP) HFCs substantially contributes to climate change, amplifying concerns related to global warming. As a response, alternative refrigerants, such as hydrocarbons (HCs), hydrofl uoroolefi ns (HFOs), and natural refrigerants, have emerged as more environmentally responsible substitutes. These alternatives possess signifi cantly lower GWP, playing a crucial role in steering the industry towards a more sustainable, carbon-conscious future. The transition from HFCs to alternative
refrigerants is underpinned by a dynamic blend of environmental awareness, regulatory enforcement, and technological innovation. While HFCs have demonstrated utility as refrigerants due to their favourable thermodynamic properties, the unintended consequence of their high GWP has galvanised a search for more benign alternatives.
32 October 2023 •
www.acr-news.com
Hydrocarbons, known for their heat transfer
properties and low environmental impact, are a promising alternative. Propane (R290) and isobutane (R600a) are among the hydrocarbons group, off ering negligible GWP and zero ODP values. However, their fl ammability necessitates careful consideration in terms of safety measures through, product design, transport, installation, service and end-of-life. Hydrofl uoroolefi ns (HFOs), a relatively recent addition to the refrigerant landscape, have gained prominence for their low GWP. HFOs represent a class of unsaturated HFCs, designed to mimic the properties of their predecessors while mitigating their environmental drawbacks. R1234yf and R1234ze are notable examples of HFOs that have garnered attention for their potential in various applications. Natural refrigerants, such as carbon dioxide (R744), ammonia (R717), and hydrocarbons, draw from the earth’s natural resources and possess an intrinsic eco-friendliness. These refrigerants have been employed historically and are making a resurgence due to their minimal environmental impact. While ammonia is an effi cient refrigerant with high thermodynamic potential, its toxicity presents challenges in terms of safe handling. Carbon dioxide, on the other hand, has gained
traction for its non-toxicity, non-fl ammability, and GWP of 1.
The F-Gas Regulation, instituted by the
European Union on the 01 January 2015, stands as a pivotal milestone in the endeavour to mitigate the environmental impact of fl uorinated greenhouse gases. The F-Gas regulation brought around signifi cant change. Firstly, how we measure F-gas refrigerants, now discussed as C02
equivalent in tonnes (C02 – eq).
This is to take into consideration the GWP value of each refrigerant (R290 = 3). Secondly, the F-Gas Regulation enforces a phasedown of HFCs, progressively restricting their production and usage. This measure expedites the adoption of alternative refrigerants. The allocation of HFC quotas to manufacturers and importers outlines a phasedown trajectory of 79% from 2015 to 2030, with current proposals looking at a 95% reduction by 2030. The outcome of these measures is a pressing demand for innovative equipment that employs low-GWP refrigerants, compelling industry leaders to pioneer the development of sustainable and forward-looking technologies. F-Gas Regulation advocates for the recovery
and reclamation of refrigerants. By embracing the principles of the circular economy and facilitating the correct recovery practices we can substantially
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