R290 (Propane), What you need to know w/ Embraco (Podcast)

In this episode, we speak with Embraco about R290 (Propane) refrigerant, hydrocarbons, and what you need to know about them. Embraco is primarily focused on compressors and is involved in the residential and light commercial market.

The greater demand for natural refrigerants or hydrocarbons has made R290 popular. Hydrocarbons have hydrogen and carbon chains; although these refrigerants are very similar to grill propane, they are much drier and purer. R170 is another hydrocarbon for very low-temperature refrigeration. In some European countries, R290 and CO₂ are becoming much more prevalent than synthetic solutions. China has invested a lot in hydrocarbon technology, and the United States has shown interest in using hydrocarbons for auto coolers and natural refrigerants for grocery refrigeration.

R290 is flammable, but most techs' aversion to working on those systems likely stems from a fear of the unknown. These systems have several safety controls that prevent gas leakage from getting in contact with sparks. So, these systems rarely ever catch fire. Embraco also has a commitment to putting safety first when they design compressors.

You can also vent R290 to the environment, which you can't do with many other refrigerants. Unlike other refrigerants, R290 has a very low global warming potential. R290 and CO₂ are not perfect, but they will be the future as we move away from ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases.

R290 is also making its way into the residential sector. You can find it in smaller applications, such as mini-fridges and even some other domestic refrigerators.

We also discuss:

• Overloads and why systems aren't as flammable as they seem
• Terminal venting
• Embraco's design goals and philosophy
• Contamination and evacuation

Links:

http://refrigerationclub.com/

http://naturalrefrigerants.info/

http://embraco.com/Default.aspx?tabid=40

Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE.

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