Further, the R134a/R32 blend at a mass fraction % of 85/15 had the highest COP value of (3.28) and COP was found to be increased by 47.1% when compared to the R134a value of (2.23). The test results conclude that the blend R134a/R32 at a mass fraction of 85/15 can be a drop-in replacement for R134a refrigerant.
Regarding safety, R134a has low toxicity and flammability, while R32 exhibits low toxicity and mild flammability. Thus, R134a is considered safer than R32. Furthermore, the COP value of R134a was found to be higher than that of R32, indicating that R134a offers greater efficiency for the heat pump compared to R32.
Possible alternatives to R-134a
Attention is increasingly focused on low-GWP refrigerants that are hydrofluoroolefins (HFO). R-1234yf in particular is often seen as a possible alternative to R-134a. The GWP value of R-1234yf is 4, which means it has a very low global warming potential.
Changes to the Dangerous Goods Legislation, effective in 2021, has new categories for A2L refrigerants. R32 is a synthetic greenhouse gas. If released to the atmosphere it can contribute to climate change. R32 is a flammable refrigerant.
Compatibility: R32 is compatible with existing air conditioning systems that use R22 and R410A, making it a suitable alternative for retrofitting existing systems. However, it's important to consider compatibility with the specific system and components before retrofitting to R32.
R32 and R152a have a reduced global warming potential than R134a, which indicates that R32 can be used as substitute for R134a in refrigeration systems.
R32 is a popular choice, due to its availability, performance and efficiency, but R454B and R452B also offer convenience and, potentially, low system qualification costs. Further alternatives are also entering the market.
Disadvantages:Different from R22 and R410A, the R32 is slightly flammable. But combustion will not occur unless three critical conditions are met, refrigerant concentration, constant oxygen, and an ignition source. In real practice, it's hard to meet all the combustion conditions.
As of August 2014, the first R32 Skyline GT-Rs became eligible for US import under the NHTSA "25 year" rule that allows vehicles that are 25 years old (to the month) or older to be imported. Due to their age, these vehicles do not have to comply with federal emissions or with federal motor vehicle safety standards.
In the first half of 2024 we'll phase out our R-410A dedicated models and introduce -01 refrigerant versatile models, compatible with both R-410A and R-454B refrigerants.
A High-Performing Alternative to R-134a
Opteon™ XL10 (R-1234yf) refrigerant is a non-ozone depleting (ODP) hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) option that meets the industry's growing demands for sustainable, safe, and effective solutions.
There are three refrigerants that can be used to replace R-134a: R-1234yf, R-152a, and R-744.
Some notable substitutes for R134a [10] in AAC based on the preceding studies are R1234yf [[11], [12], [13], [14]], R1234z (E) [[15], [16], [17]], R152a [[18], [19], [20]], R290 [21,22], R744 [[23], [24], [25]], R430A [26,27], and R444A [28], etc.
Only Section 608 certified technicians can purchase refrigerants intended for use with stationary refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment.
R-32 is the most balanced refrigerant in terms of environmental impact, energy efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Refrigerant is a medium for conveying heat. Air conditioners transfer heat while circulating refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units.
The HVAC industry is transitioning to R32 systems to comply with new government regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gases. By January 1, 2025, most newly manufactured HVAC systems will be required to use R32 refrigerant instead of the older types like R410A.
Regulatory - There are no published regulations or granted EPA petitions that state R-32 will be prohibited in the U.S. after 2029. In fact, R-32 is a single component refrigerant, while R-454B is a blend that consists of nearly 70% R-32.
The real reason, though, has more to do with something as mundane as US import laws. The Nissan Skyline ban exists simply because the car failed to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. The Nissan Skyline is illegal in the US because of the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act of 1988.
Of course you can, as long as the unit is not less than 1997 where the requirements for cars that are allowed to be imported into the US in used condition. Currently, several Skyline GTR units have been imported to America, such as R32 and R33 generation.
MULTICOOL-HC32 is a high purity mixture of propane R290 and R170 ethane. It is a refrigerant with a reduced global warming potential (GWP). It is designed to replace R410a and R32 in most stationary residential and commercial air conditioning systems.
For homeowners, the 2025 refrigerant changes mean new air conditioning systems purchased after this date will likely use R-32, R-454B, or other low-GWP refrigerants.
Which gases are used in AC? R290 and R32 are both gases used in air conditioning units. They're also known as refrigerants, which means they help cool down your room by turning into liquids when pumped through the system. Compared to other gases such as R12, and R22, they are safer and environment-friendly to use.
The test results conclude that the blend R134a/R32 at a mass fraction of 85/15 can be a drop-in replacement for R134a refrigerant.
Is it possible to upgrade the refrigerant in an existing unit? Please note that it is not possible to transition an R410A refrigerant unit to an R32 unit. Refrigerants should only be handled by trained, qualified technicians. These experts can assist you in finding an R32-capable system.