Key Takeaways
- R-454B (Puron Advance): Leading R410a replacement with GWP of 466, similar operating pressures, but classified as A2L (mildly flammable)
- R32 Performance: Single-component refrigerant offering higher capacity than R410a with GWP of 675, already used by Daikin and LG
- Safety Classifications Matter: New refrigerants shift from A1 (non-flammable) to A2L (mildly flammable), requiring updated handling procedures
- Chiller Solutions Available: R513A replaces R134a in screw chillers while R514A replaces R123 in centrifugal units, both maintaining A1/B1 classifications
As environmental regulations tighten, HVAC equipment manufacturers are racing to find alternative refrigerants that balance environmental safety, performance efficiency, and technician safety.
Many of us in the industry witnessed the transition from R22 to R410a during the 2000s and 2010s. Now, with R22 completely phased out of production, environmental agencies worldwide are targeting further reductions in refrigerants with high Global Warming Potential (GWP), particularly in North America.
It’s only a matter of time before R410a faces the same fate as R22. What alternatives are emerging for the coming years? And what solutions are Europe and Asia already implementing?
Puron Advance (R-454B): The Industry’s Leading Choice
In December 2018, Carrier announced the creation of Puron Advance. As some may recall, Carrier spearheaded the creation of R410a, patenting the name Puron back in the 1990s.
R-454B consists of R32 (68.9%) and R1234yf (31.1%). The operating pressures closely match R410A, making equipment transitions smoother. Its GWP of 466 represents a dramatic reduction from R410A’s rating of 2,088. This refrigerant has become the choice for most HVAC equipment manufacturers due to its lower GWP compared to pure R32.
As a zeotropic blend refrigerant, R-454B exhibits a slight temperature glide between bubble and dew points, meaning fractionation can occur. For example, at 100 psig, the dew point measures 36.6°F while the bubble point sits at 34.3°F.
R-454B On The Danfoss RefTools App
R32: The High-Performance Alternative
R32 is currently utilized by several manufacturers, notably Daikin and LG. Most field technicians are already somewhat familiar with R32, as it comprises half of R410a’s composition.
The key difference is that R410a includes R125 as a flame suppressant. R32 operates at similar pressures to R410a but delivers slightly more capacity. Because of its higher performance factor, systems require less refrigerant to achieve their rated capacities. Its GWP rating stands at 675.
As a single-component refrigerant like R22, R32 can be charged as either vapor or liquid, simplifying service procedures. When working with any new refrigerant, following proper refrigerant leak checking procedures becomes even more critical for both safety and environmental compliance.
R32 On The Danfoss RefTools App
R1234yf: The Building Block Refrigerant
https://refrigeranthq.com/r-1234yf-refrigerant-fact-info-sheet/
This refrigerant deserves attention because it’s a component in many other low-GWP refrigerants, including R454B and R513A. Currently used primarily in automotive applications, R1234yf is a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerant with operating pressures similar to R134a, making it an ideal replacement in those applications.
However, it’s not as cost-effective as blends like R513A. Like the refrigerants above, it carries an A2L classification. Its GWP is an impressive 4, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options available.
R1234yf On The Danfoss RefTools App
Understanding Flammability Classifications
The main challenge with these alternatives is their flammability classification. Many lower-GWP refrigerants carry higher flammability ratings, typically A2 or A2L (mildly flammable), compared to R410a’s A1 classification (non-flammable).
In the United States, the EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program aims to reduce emissions while maintaining safety standards. This regulatory framework limits some refrigerants with excellent performance characteristics. For instance, highly flammable (A3) refrigerants like propane (R290) and isobutane (R600a) are currently restricted to small refrigeration appliances.
R466A: The Non-Flammable Option
Developed by Honeywell and introduced in 2018, R466A stands apart with its A1 classification. This refrigerant combines R32 (49%), R125 (11.5%), and R1311 (39.5%).
R466A matches R410a’s performance characteristics and was designed as a more direct replacement for new equipment. Compared to an R410a system charge, equipment would need approximately 10-15% more refrigerant to meet current performance ratings. Honeywell is also exploring retrofit applications for existing R410a systems. Its GWP rating is 733. (https://www.achrnews.com/articles/143923-nonflammable-alternatives-to-r-410a)
R466A On The Danfoss RefTools App
Chiller-Specific Solutions
For technicians working with chillers, the industry has already adopted lower-GWP alternatives. R513A serves as a replacement for R134a in screw machines, while R514A replaces R123 in centrifugal chillers. These refrigerants maintain non-flammable classifications (A1 for R513A and B1 for R514A), simplifying the transition for facilities.
R513A: The Screw Chiller Solution
R513A On The Danfoss RefTools App
R514A: The Centrifugal Chiller Option
R514A On The Danfoss RefTools App
Preparing for the Transition
As these refrigerants enter the market over the coming years, technicians must understand their properties and handling requirements. Just as the industry adapted during the R22 to R410a transition, today’s technicians must be diligent in identifying refrigerants and following proper procedures.
What was once considered “best practice” will become absolutely necessary. This includes proper refrigeration system evacuation procedures and ensuring you seal your service valve caps to prevent leaks—especially critical with these lower-GWP alternatives.
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