Propane: Big Gains for Small-Charge Refrigeration
Propane (or R-290) has achieved global acceptance as a lower-GWP, energy-efficient hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) alternative primarily used in low-charge, self-contained refrigeration applications.
Propane (or R-290) has achieved global acceptance as a lower-GWP, energy-efficient hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) alternative primarily used in low-charge, self-contained refrigeration applications.
At a time when synthetic refrigerants are scrutinized for their environmental impacts, R-290 has emerged as an increasingly viable natural alternative. With excellent thermodynamic properties — such as low back pressure, high volumetric capacity and high coefficient of performance — R-290 outperforms R-404A in energy efficiencies in Copeland's test labs.
With a global warming potential (GWP) of 3 and an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of 0, R-290 poses virtually no threat to the environment. Current U.S. safety standards limit refrigeration system charges to 150g.
Modern refrigeration technologies have evolved to ensure equipment safety and support the use of R-290 in an expanding range of applications. Today, R-290 is primarily used in self-contained display cases that feature a built-in condensing unit. These cases have been in service for more than a decade in Europe and have become increasingly popular in the U.S. in recent years.
Smaller-format retailers are leveraging self-contained, R-290 cases in distributed architectures; larger retailers see these solutions as flexible spot merchandising options.
