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R-32-THE FUTURE OF REFRIGERANTS

R-32- THE FUTURE OF REFRIGERANTS

As we move into the new decade, do you know that the EU’s policy on Global Warming is to have a 20% reduction towards the emission of Greenhouse Gases in 2020, 40% reduction in 2030 with a low carbon roadmap of reducing Greenhouse Gases by 80% in 2050?

Are you aware that the revised 2014 F-gas regulation aims to cut emissions of F-gases by two-thirds 2030?

Are you aware that from 2025 in the EU, there will be a ban on single split air conditioners with a charge below 3kg running on refrigerants with GWP > 750?

How do we face the future?

The future of refrigerants is here with the R-32 refrigerant, the component in the blend R-410A that account for its efficiency and thermodynamic qualities.

*Source: Values for 100 year global warming potential (GWP) from IPCC Fourth Assessment Report. Comparative 100 year GWP: HFC410A, 2,090; HFC32, 675.

What exactly is R-32?

R-32 is the future of refrigerants, thanks to its global warming potential (GWP) of 675, one-third lower than R-410 A and its zero ozone depletion potential (ODP).

 

  • R-32 = HFC = CH°F° “difluoromethane”, a single component HFC
  • Already used as a component of the blend R-410A

Is R-32 Really Flammable?

R-32 is classified as class 2L refrigerant with low flammability having a burning velocity of 6cm/s.

Flammability Classification of R-32

Burning Velocity: Characteristics of a flammable refrigerant

  • Burning velocity of R-32 is very low: 6,7 cm/s (=4m/min or 0.24km/h)
  • When a flammable concentration of R-32 comes into contact with a flame, it will simply burn away in a relatively confined fire. It will not explode like propane.

How does R-32 compare to other refrigerants in air to air residential heat pumps?

 

Comparing various refrigerants for air to air residential heat pumps

What is the environmental benefit of R-32?

R-32 is the most eco-friendly refrigerant, with up to 75% reduction in environmental impact as compared to R410A.