VTech refrigerant charging system for A2L refrigerant such as R32-R452-R454
The air conditioning industry has been evaluating a replacement for R410a refrigerant with an energy efficient, lower GWP solution. Other markets in Asia and Europe have followed the same path in recent years and can provide a frame of reference for the North American market. Although we have seen R290 (GWP 3) being used in heat-pump applications, so far R32 (GWP 675) has been the most popular replacement for R410a (GWP 2088). Other blends include R452B (GWP 676) and R454B (GWP 467). In automotive applications R1234yf has replaced R134a, although CO2 (R744) is also being used.
All R410a replacements as above, have an ASHRAE classification of A2L, denoting mild flammability, vs. A3 classification (high flammability) for hydrocarbon refrigerants (R290, R600). A2L safety requirements for industrial plant installations are not as strict as for A3; fenced safety areas with ducts and outside ventilation are no longer required, resulting in a lower investment for transitioning to a R410a replacement.
VTech has been at the forefront of H.C. refrigerant introduction in North America, providing turn-key installations including charge boards for final assembly and repair lines, safety systems, ultrasonic tube sealing. Engineering support for safety regulations and lay-out design throughout the life of the project has been instrumental to the success of our customers.
We are looking forward to providing R32-R452-R454 refrigerant charging solutions to air conditioning OEMs.