NET ZERO & ZERO CARBON BUILDINGS
Although there are very few refrigerants left in the marketplace with high levels of toxicity, there have been some concerns raised regarding the risks of explosion and fire. As you would expect, CO2 refrigerant is a non-flammable option, closely followed by R32, which is a low-flammability refrigerant with a max burning velocity of <10cm/s. This essentially means that it is not an explosive liquid and the possibility of fire spreading, even if it did ignite, would be incredibly low with a very slow flame propagation speed. When it comes to R290, yes, it’s flammability risk is slighter higher but it’s important to keep things in perspective. Like many of us who have a propane-fuelled BBQ sitting in our back gardens, without giving it a second thought, a rooftop heat pump with R290 refrigerant would propose minimal risk when used in the right conditions.
Taking everything into account, when it comes to selecting a refrigerant for a heat pump, cost will undoubtedly play a large deciding factor. Whilst it could be argued that natural refrigerants such as CO2 and R290 are naturally available, due to their up-and-coming popularity, CO2 is currently experiencing a rapid price increase. In comparison, synthetic refrigerants such as R32 are still relatively cost-effective and can be easily recycled.
Going forward: the future of refrigerants
heat pump is electric). In this situation, an optimally performing natural refrigerant such as CO2, which features excellent heat transfer properties, could help enhance the overall efficiency of the heat pump. This is because it has a higher boiling point than traditional refrigerants, which allows less powerful heat pumps to be used, resulting in reduced overall energy consumption. However, it is important to note that external temperatures can also have an impact on COP, so we also need to look at the SCOP (otherwise known as the
Seasonal Performance Factor). This is the ratio of the total amount of heat delivered, divided by the total amount of energy consumed over the same period. This measure considers the temperature variations and provides a more realistic measure of a heat pump’s annual energy efficiency. Here, CO2 heat pumps offer the benefit of being able to operate at extremely low ambient temperatures because they have higher pressure compared to other more traditional refrigerants.
Whilst R32 continues to offer a low cost, efficient and sustainable solution, natural refrigerants are, without a doubt, fast gaining popularity thanks to their higher output temperatures and lower GWP and ODP potential. However, with a no one size fits all solution, it is important to balance the above factors against the requirements of each specific project. and it is clear to see why many manufacturers and end users are looking towards heat pumps featuring natural refrigerants that help to future-proof their investments.
EasyLink.
Our valves are born to perform.
Our EasyLink has been designed and manufactured in accordance with BSRIA’s Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems to deliver optimum, consistent performance time after time. Each unit has been individually tested and is ready to be installed onto the Fan Coil Unit. Also, with its integral is guaranteed.
When it’s all about product excellence, the EasyLink steals the spotlight every time!
EasyLink!
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08/04/2024 15:29:49 16/4/24 11:03 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER MAY 2024 19
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