The Change to R32 Refrigerant
The change to R32 might be familiar to you if you work within the air conditioning industry but what are the changes all about. Of course, there have been changes made in the past but what is pushing this current change to R32 and why?
The benefits that come with R32 are:
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It has a GWP of 675
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Has no ozone depleting potential
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Is futureproof
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Increased efficiency and extended pipe runs
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Per Kw, it requires a lower refrigerant volume
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Priced competitively and is available.
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Better for the environment
In recent years, the change of refrigerant has been linked to the fact that many have been proven to damage the Earth’s ozone layer and play a part in climate change. As a result of this, R22 was banned and eventually phased out in 2015.
Following the ban of R22, manufacturers made the switch to hydrofluorocarbon R407c because it worked in the same way. However, in 2006, the market began using R410A as it provided an increase in efficiency and operated at higher pressures.
However, R407c and R410a are greenhouse gases and are known to contribute towards the greenhouse effect. Despite this, each refrigerant is marked against Global Warming Potential (GWP) as it is made up of carbon that has a GWP of 1.
When you consider that R410a has a GWP of 2,088, it proves just how harmful it can be to the environment and so, this is why things are moving to R32 as it has a GWP of 675, which is considerably less than that of R410a. Therefore, many air conditioner manufacturers are now making the move to this new refrigerant in an attempt to reduce their impact on the environment, reduce costs, reduce energy and enhance safety.
While there are a number of refrigerants available, they are all assessed again 4 main criteria – Environment, Energy, Efficiency and Safety and Economy. Those available refrigerants have a mix of advantages and disadvantages but it has been determined by manufacturers that R32 Is likely to be the best choice.
R32 is easier to reuse and recycle
R32 is easier to reuse and recycle because it is a single component refrigerant. Production costs are also lower while it is easier to handle as it does not separate. Costs remain almost the same and because it has a low-toxicity, it does not ignite easily and will not explode.
So, R32 will become a common sight in air conditioning units as time goes by as the industry makes the transition to this new refrigerant that offers performance and increased efficiency.
It is important to recognise that R32 is not a new product that has not been implemented or tested because it has been used in Japan for several years. Therefore, it is currently being used in more than 10 million units that are installed and operating.
This change will work in favour of the industry, as it will still make it possible for companies to offer their products while ensuring they meet all legislation and laws. It will prove that they are also doing all they can to improve their own Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as they will be seen to be using a refrigerant that reduces the impact of climate change.