The Chiller R-32 offer approximately 5 to 8% greater capacity, compared to systems that work with R410a.
What should be known about the use of R-32 as a replacement for R-410A in Chillers?
- R32 has better efficiency and around 10% more capacity than R410A, depending on the application and system design.
- In a new application, R32 stands out as the most efficient and best performing alternative to R410A.
- The charge of R32 is about 20% less, compared to R410A. R32 is a relatively inexpensive single component refrigerant, which means it is easier to recycle.
- Due to the high discharge temperatures of R-32, the operating range of Chillers with R32 is limited.
- For operation in ambient temperature conditions greater than 45 ° C the best options are R452b or R454b.
- Manufacturers have selected R-32 for their scroll-type chillers, due to its lower impact on the environment.
- Compared to R410A, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is said to improve by 10%.
- Thanks to its lower A2L flammability rating, the R32 can be safely used in chilled water systems.
- Although R454B is preferred by many as its direct replacement for R410A, R32 has the advantage of being a non-proprietary one-component gas, has no slip, and has price and availability advantages over its rival.
- R-32 refrigerant is made up of a single component, it is easier to handle and recover than other alternatives such as R454B or R452B.
- Also, since the R32 is slip-free, it is not necessary to vacuum the system before each charge.
- With the R454B and R452B there is the possibility that a disproportionate amount of a component could escape in the event of a leak.
- R32 is likely to remain cheaper than R454B and R452B.
- As there is no patent on R32, access and availability is guaranteed through many refrigerant suppliers.
- Regarding efficiency, calculations and compressor manufacturers show higher efficiency ratings for R32 than for R454B.
- R32 with its GWP of 675 has a significantly higher GWP than R454B (GWP 466), however the lower amount of R32 refrigerant used should be considered.
- The process of changing from R410A to R32 in a chiller requires various components and configurations to be adjusted, including the expansion valve, liquid line tubing, suction line, and discharge line.
- In the process of changing from R410A to R32 in a chiller, it may present an oversized compressor and it may be necessary to change it.
- Currently, R32, R452B, R454B is considered in Chillers with scroll compressor as short-term replacement, and in the longer term to R1234ze, R515B, R516A.
Where to learn all about chillers?
We have prepared a complete training in chilled water installations with chillers.
