Carbon dioxide

A newly released report by the European Commission (EC) pushes the adoption of heat pumps using natural refrigerants as a way to develop the European heat pump market against non-European competition.

Based on a survey of key OEMs, ATMOsphere estimates that, as of September 2022, there are 55,000 stores with transcritical CO₂ systems in Europe, including 50,000 using a centralized system (racks) and 5,000 using condensing units.

ATMOsphere announced the release of the “North American Guide to Natural Refrigerants in Ice Arenas,” including information on ammonia systems.

The IOR has updated its guidance note on fixed leak detection, which is now available for download.

As an extension of the study published in 2014, AFCE publishes here the final report of this independent study launched end of 2017 entitled energy efficiency of possible alternatives . The study has been carried out by experts from EREIE – CEMAFROID and CITEPA.

In this transitional period, new fluids are being developed to replace the high-GWP refrigerants. That’s why the blue book, an essential tool for all users of refrigerants, has just been republished and updated.

With the phase-out of HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons) under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer progressing, the introduction of alternatives with not only zero ozone depleting potential (ODP) but also low global warming potential (GWP) and improved energy efficiency is becoming an issue of increasing importance, especially in developing countries.

A new document from Beijer Ref seeks to clarify what refrigeration equipment is currently approved as suitable for use with the new generation of lower GWP refrigerants.

The GUIDE to Natural Refrigerants Training in Europe 2017 demonstrates that training is readily available.

Stratospheric ozone depletion as well as atmospheric greenhouse effect due to refrigerant emissions have led to drastic changes in the refrigeration and air conditioning technology since the beginning of the 1990s.

This document has been developed by OzonAction as part of UN Environment’s work programme under the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC).

The wide acceptance of new technologies depends on a myriad of factors, in the technological, economic and social field, that form part of a complex network of interactions. Both innovators and technology adopters share a common concern for respecting the economic bottom-line and for choosing solutions that provide the highest possible level of investment security while being framed by solid industry support and favourable policy conditions. The industrial refrigeration industry is no exception to this. While the use of ammonia has not been challenged on grounds of lacking energy efficiency nor overall environmental benefits, the trend towards reducing the refrigerant charge for increased safety is currently changing the industry.

CO₂ is termed a “Natural Refrigerant” because it exists in the natural environment. Release into the atmosphere from refrigeration systems has a negligible effect compared to other CO₂ sources that are driving the global warming debate. As a refrigerant, it is a manufactured product that conforms to strict purity specifications. Its physical properties require special handling.