The R410A Transition to A2L Refrigerants with HVACR Expert Don Gillis
In this presentation, HVACR expert Don Gillis delves into the R410A transition, emphasizing key milestones and exploring the physical properties of potential replacements like R32 and R454B.
This live podcast focuses squarely on the ASHRAE 34 A2L classification and its implications across HVAC equipment, mechanical spaces, transportation, storage, and building codes. But what exactly are A2L refrigerants?
Here is your one-stop shop for A2L resources: www.opteon.com/en/support/und...
Educational video regarding A2Ls:
For weekly updates on the R410A transition to A2L refrigerants, see “Checkup with Dr. Chuck.” A weekly series discussing the HVACR industry, particularly refrigerants.
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Named after their ASHRAE safety classification, A2L refrigerants exhibit mild flammability, low toxicity, and a low global warming potential (GWP). This category encompasses hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) and HFO blends. A2L refrigerants mirror the operational characteristics of legacy refrigerants while presenting a safer profile compared to ammonia and hydrocarbon-based refrigerants.
As the world grapples with the challenge of climate change, A2L refrigerants have emerged as a substitution for older, high-impact refrigerants such as HFCs and HCFCs in air conditioning and commercial refrigeration setups. A2Ls are pivotal in aiding businesses to meet global objectives outlined in agreements like the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment, as well as regional regulations such as the U.S. AIM Act, Canada’s ODSHAR, and the targets of the EU Green Deal.
For years, R410A refrigerant has been the standard in HVAC systems. However, due to its high global warming potential (GWP), its use is undergoing a phased reduction mandated by the EPA. A2L refrigerants constitute a novel class of refrigerants developed to supplant R410A. These alternatives possess lower GWPs and exhibit reduced flammability.
The EPA has instituted a series of phasedown milestones for R410A refrigerant production and equipment manufacturing:
By January 1, 2023, the production of new R410A refrigerant for U.S. equipment was reduced by 10%.
By January 1, 2024, the production of new R410A refrigerant for U.S. equipment will undergo an additional 30% reduction.
Characteristics of A2L Refrigerants.
ASHRAE Standard 34 categorizes A2L refrigerants as mildly flammable. This classification enhances their safety in HVAC systems, albeit necessitating distinct handling procedures. This mild flammability stems from their requirement for high ignition energy, reducing the likelihood of ignition from sparks or flames compared to conventional refrigerants. However, handling A2L refrigerants with care remains imperative due to their inherent flammability.
Alternatives to R410A Refrigerant.
R454B: A blend of HFCs and HFOs with a GWP of 450, also a common A2L refrigerant.
R1234yf: An HFO refrigerant boasting a GWP of 4, while more expensive than other A2L refrigerants, represents an exceptionally low GWP option.
In Conclusion, the transition from R410A to A2L marks a pivotal change in the HVAC sector, driven by the necessity to curtail the environmental impact of HVAC systems. A2L refrigerants present a promising innovation, offering reduced GWPs and enhanced safety. As the cost of A2L refrigerants declines and their availability grows, they are anticipated to become the standard within HVAC systems in the forthcoming years.
Crucial Considerations.
While safety remains paramount, the mild flammability classification per ASHRAE 34 of the leading candidates underscores the significance of this transition. The A2L designation, relatively recent within ASHRAE, was created to differentiate A2L refrigerants from A2 substances with higher burning velocities and ignition characteristics. The primary catalyst for this transition remains GWP.
Пікірлер: 23
This is the most informative source I've found for the impending phase out of 410A! Great job! I do have a few concerns/recommendations. 1) If the normal operating conditions of R454B are as stated in the slide showing suction pressure of 117 @ 44.6F, I'm concerned this will adversely affect the de-humidification function of HVAC systems where humidity is an issue. My past experiences with chill water systems raised to 45F to conserve energy failed to maintain desired humidity levels. Although it seems nominal, that's a big difference! 2) When you reviewed the flammability of A2L gases, it was explained (very concisely) how negligible the concerns have been, in that regard. However when asked about using these gases as a "drop-in" replacement for existing systems, "liability" was the reason given why these gases shouldn't be used, which seems flimsy based on how minimal the flammability differences are, in reality. Therefore, with tongue in cheek, I call BS! LOL!... In all seriousness, we all have to deal with the actual financial pressures these changes will put on the folks we are trying to help/service in the residential field and many will be asking the same question when they have to decide between being able to juggle life's necessities/obligations, including having a functioning HVAC system and I think there needs to be some more thought as to what is possible in this regard going forward. In other words; there needs to be a better explanation/guidance on this topic. Thanks again for this information. Great job!!
Appreciate this information!!
@HVAC-TV
9 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@studyallthetimeallthetime8473
9 ай бұрын
@@HVAC-TV I passed my A2L exam. This really helped.
Great
@HVAC-TV
10 ай бұрын
Thank u!
@Davidsavage8008
6 ай бұрын
@@HVAC-TVso a refrigerant leak now can blow up a house.! If your electric car batter don't first.
It's just a question. Can we still install R410A system when the New Refrigerants come out ❓❓
@user-nt5zb9dw6e
9 ай бұрын
I just read that there will be NO NEW systems using R410A starting 1/1/2025. Older ruling said 1/1/2024 so I assume the use of R410A has been extended. I also read that R410A will be available to use in repairing systems for an extended period - whatever that means??? Lots of confusing and contradictory info around.
@Davidsavage8008
6 ай бұрын
If you have money you should buy them up and stock pile them.
@pauldombroski5185
5 ай бұрын
@@Davidsavage8008 even that won't matter as you can buy through 2025 and install through 2026. After that, components will be available for repairs, but you can't buy systems OR buy components to make a system as well after 2026.
I don't think it is a good idean going with A2L. 1. When mixed with POE oil, it becomes very high flamable. 2. Title 24 required sealed attic (a time bomb). 3. Furnace + leaky evaporator + sealed attic = bomb.
@ansaryaboubakare2687
5 ай бұрын
that is why California want to go with heat pump, but there is still electrical components within air handler. Has someone tested with this combine scenario?
@ansaryaboubakare2687
5 ай бұрын
If a system that has a clogged metering device where refrigerant is still in the coil. Recovery + purging with Nitrogen still will not remove the refrigerant. When brazing, it will ignite and residual refrigerant in the coil. A1 sometime cause a plume of fire, with A2L it will be a disaster especially for young inexperience technician. But it may set the insulation on fire. There goes the technician and the house.
@pauldombroski5185
5 ай бұрын
I'd be more worried about the acetylene that you carry on your service vehicle than a unit. The mixing with POE oil....want to see that video of it burning. And by the way, most units where the refrigerant crosses the air stream will have a system on board that will mitigate any leaks.
@Charles-uq6xz
2 ай бұрын
You don’t know what you are talking about
@youarethecreator1
Ай бұрын
Tests were not within the stoichiometric combustion range of the A2L Gas. This gas is combustable in concentrations of less than 13% at room temperature and normal atmospheric pressures. See the MSDS: "Flammable gases, Category 1 Gases, which at 20°C (68°F) and a standard pressure of 101.3 kPa (14.7 psi): (a) are ignitable when in a mixture of 13% or less by volume in air; or (b) have a flammable range with air of at least 12 percentage points regardless of the lower flammable limit.
Exploding batteries now this ? Fix it untill its broke mentality may just be vengence and false profits.