www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I February 2024 41
Technical
Only suitably qualified and trained operatives are permitted to handle R-290 as a refrigerant , which in the UK means successful completion of the City & Guilds 6187-21 hydrocarbon handling qualification . Safe handling includes use of appropriate personal protective equipment ( PPE ) such as goggles , a portable gas detector and anti-electrostatic gloves .
When installing propane-based refrigeration systems , it is essential to follow all relevant local and national codes and standards . This ensures safe installation , operation and maintenance . Post-installation , regular inspections are important to ensure continued safe and efficient operation .
With significant research and development under way , new and improved propane-based refrigeration systems are expected to become available , providing even more efficient and cost-effective cooling solutions .
TRAINING Regular refresher training is recommended for system designers , installers and maintenance staff working with flammable refrigerants such as propane .
Images supplied by BITZER
SUPPORT AND EFFICIENT SYSTEM COMPONENTS BITZER has a comprehensive support programme for system designers and installers working with flammable refrigerants . This includes guidelines on safe application , and a practical training programme held at the SCHAUFLER Academy in Germany ( see below ).
On the equipment side , our specialist high performance compressors and system components are approved for use with flammable refrigerants such as R290 , in a wide range of refrigeration , air conditioning and heat pump applications .
These include reciprocating compressors and compact screw compressors for air conditioning or process cooling , and system components such as oil separators , liquid receivers , condensers and evaporators .
BITZER offers a comprehensive product portfolio for use with flammable refrigerants , such as the CSH compact screw compressor .
By using an IQ module , it is also possible to connect propane systems to the BITZER Digital Network ( BDN ) for detailed performance analysis and remote diagnosis , saving time and money and helping support safety .
FUTURE OUTLOOK In many applications , propane is a viable alternative to conventional refrigerants with high GWP values , offering high cooling capacity , high efficiency and low environmental impact .
As the world moves towards more sustainable and environmentally acceptable solutions , the use of propane as a refrigerant is expected to increase , particularly in commercial and industrial applications .
The evolving regulatory framework will obviously play a key role , as F-gas regulations limit use of traditional fluids , and restrictions on the use of alternatives such as flammable refrigerants are reviewed to permit greater use , subject to effective risk mitigation .
The SCHAUFLER Academy in Rottenburg-Ergenzingen ( pictured above ) provides both onsite and remote courses designed to equip operatives with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely and efficiently .
For more details : www . trainings-events . bitzer . de
BITZER guidance on propane systems is provided here : www . bitzer . de / shared _ media / documentation / at-660-1 . pdf ? P =/ doc /& N = at-660-1 . pdf
BITZER REFRIGERANT REPORT ONLINE This annually updated report has become a key reference for refrigeration professionals working across many disciplines . It provides current , reliable information on all commonly used refrigerants and those showing potential for the future .
The latest version ( Issue 21 ) has been significantly expanded and includes up-to-date information on properties , specifications and regulations , as well as a quick reference table with filter function for refrigerants .
Access the report here : www . bitzer . de / shared _ media / html / a-500-501 / en-GB / index . html # index _ content
Propane molecule ... small but with big potential .
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I February 2024 41