Studies on HC290 as a substitute for HCFC22 in split air conditioners

Abstract

In recent years, the global warming phenomena, has drawn significant attention. Montreal Protocol prohibits the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and CFCs have been already phased out. The Montreal Protocol schedules have been advanced to phase out the use of HCFCs by 2020 in developed (non-Article 5) countries and by 2030 in developing (Article 5) countries with a freeze in 2013 (UNEP 2015). Researchers and technocrats in the field of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning are in search of alternative refrigerants with low Global Warming Potential (GWP). Millions of air conditioners around the world are working with HCFC22 as the working fluid, due to its superior thermodynamic properties. These, HCFC22 air conditioners have to be retrofitted or converted to work with low GWP alternatives. Many alternative refrigerants reported in published literature have zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), but have moderate or high GWP. Hydrocarbon (HC) refrigerants such as propane (HC290), has zero ODP and a negligible GWP of 3. Thus, considering that it can provide energy efficient operation, it is an environment friendly refrigerant alternative. However, its flammability is the main issue. As per laid down safety standard (IEC 60335-2-40), any refrigeration and air conditioning equipment charged with less than 150 g of HC290 may be installed at any location provided there is no ignition source newlineclose to the system. newline newline