Motili examines refrigerants and shares why R-32 is the top refrigerant for current HVAC systems.
What is a refrigerant?
A refrigerant is a chemical compound that when paired with compressors and evaporators, produces a cooling effect. Refrigerants start as a low-pressure gas, which is then pumped by a compressor, and turned into a high-pressure liquid.
As it goes through the expansion valve, it loses its pressure as well as temperature. As it flows through the evaporator, heat is absorbed and it becomes a low-pressure gas. The process then starts over again.
What is the best type of refrigerant?
R-32 is a pure, single-component refrigerant that doesn’t change its composition over time
There are various types of refrigerants, but R-32 has been growing in interest. Manufacturers such as Daikin have chosen this refrigerant as the refrigerant of the future.
R-32 is a relatively new refrigerant that previously was difficult to handle and was not practical. R-32 is a pure, single-component refrigerant that doesn’t change its composition over time. This makes it very easy to top off during service calls.
zero ozone depletion potential
Environmental impact is becoming increasingly important as well, and when compared to other refrigerants, such as R-22, R-32 has a zero ozone depletion potential. Its cooling season performance factor is also higher. The global warming potential is 675 for the direct emissions from systems. This can be up to 80 % lower than similar systems.
“When compared to other refrigerants, R-32 effectively conveys heat and it is safer than other refrigerants as its flammability classification is lower,” said Matthew Sallee, VP of Sales, Multi-Dwelling and Commercial, Motili.“It takes a hundred times more energy to ignite than propane.” Price is a significant factor as well. R-32 tends to have a lower price point per pound compared to other refrigerants.