How's effective ref HC to replace HFC R134?

[mizakzazy]

Hi, I am quite new in refrigeration industry. There has been a trend in my country to introduce 'green refrigerant' to replace common R134 in chillers? Just to know whether it is not just a hype or it's truly efficient compared to common refrigerant? Need to know opinion from all members.

[NoNickName]

Hi, I am quite new in refrigeration industry. There has been a trend in my country to introduce 'green refrigerant' to replace common R134 in chillers?

Welcome in the club.

Just to know whether it is not just a hype or it's truly efficient compared to common refrigerant? Need to know opinion from all members.

Green and efficient are not synonyms. HC are much more eco-compatible than fluorinated refrigerants, and have similar efficiency although here your mileage may vary depending on the actual application.
Basicly, HC have a lower primary co2 footprint, and may have a slightly higher or lower secondary co2 footprint depending on the actual application.

The big drawback is that they are extremely flammable, and I wouldn't suggest to adopt such refrigerants unless the society is ready to take the responsibility and the risk, the legislation is encompassing and complied to, and the engineers are properly trained.

[doctor freon]

Hello and welcome, As you say you are new to the industry I suggest you take some time and read here and elsewhere much of the discussion regarding hydrocarbons (HC) as refrigerants. From a purely chemical and thermodynamic standpoint the HC molecules have decent refrigerant performance properties, depending on the type of system. From a practical standpoint the extreme flammability of these gases is a huge risk hurdle to overcome versus other gases in many applications and geographies. It continues to evolve with time.