Refrigerant gas is a chemical substance whose physical state changes according to the phase of the refrigeration cycle it is in. This state can be liquid or gaseous. The truth is that this substance is essential for the continuous operation of the cycle because its change of state generates the desired temperature. In summary, this chemical mixture found in air conditioners and refrigeration systems changes from a liquid to a gas state to absorb and release heat. There is a wide variety of these components available on the market, but one of the most commonly used is R32, as it is one of the most efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly options.
What is R32?
R32 is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant that is replacing conventional refrigerants such as R22 and R410A. The reason for its increasing use in refrigeration and HVAC systems is its high heat transfer efficiency and minimal impact on the environment. While air conditioners are used to supply cold air to an indoor space, the unit still generates heat internally to perform its cooling functions.
As mentioned, R-32, also known as HFC32, is an organic hydrofluorocarbon compound with the chemical formula CH₂F₂. It is an odorless, colorless gas that is insoluble in water and slightly flammable.
Properties of this refrigerant gas
Here are some properties of HFC32:
- Boiling point: -52°C. The boiling point of a refrigerant gas refers to the temperature at which the compound starts to evaporate in a closed system. This evaporation is necessary for proper functioning. Most conventional refrigerants have boiling points between –2 and 104°C.
- Critical temperature: 78.1°C. The critical temperature is the limit above which a mixed gas, such as R32, cannot be liquefied by compression.
- Critical pressure: 838.6 PSI (57.8 bar). Critical pressure defines the range in which a substance can transform into vapor in the presence of the corresponding liquid. This value is expressed in PSI or pounds per square inch (lb/in²) and in bar or kilograms per square inch (Kg/in²).
- ASHRAE Safety Group: A2L. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 34 classifies refrigerants based on their toxicity and flammability. The A2L class indicates lower toxicity and slight flammability.
R32 has a history
Although some experts present it as a new-generation gas, R32 already has a history in the field of refrigerants. However, it is not used as an independent compound because it constitutes half of R410A. In fact, R410A is a two-component refrigerant that is being used as a global substitute for R22. The other component of R410A is R25, which was included for its non-flammable properties to address the flammability issues that prevented pure R32 from being widely used as a replacement for R22 when R410A was developed.
Currently, the implementation of R32 in HVAC systems, mostly as a replacement for R410A, is on the rise as manufacturers seek alternatives with lower GWP (Global Warming Potential).
More about the low environmental impact
It is worth noting that the low environmental impact of R32 is due to its values in terms of Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP). At this point, it is relevant to refer to these two concepts.
Firstly, Global Warming Potential quantifies the integrated warming effect that the instantaneous release of 1kg of any greenhouse gas (GHG) currently has over time, compared to the effect of CO2. From this perspective, it is possible to understand the radiative effects of each gas, as well as their different durations in the atmosphere.
On the other hand, Ozone Depletion Potential measures the level of damage that gases can cause to the ozone layer in a specific period of time. The ozone layer in the Earth’s stratosphere absorbs between 97 and 99% of high-frequency ultraviolet radiation. This prevents these rays, also known as UVB, from reaching the Earth’s surface. Skin cancer, cataracts, damage to plants, and a decrease in plankton population in the photic zone of the oceans are just some of the effects of UVB exposure.
R32 has a GWP of 675, which is significantly lower compared to other refrigerants such as R410A with a value of 2,088. Not to mention R11, which exhibits the highest figure of 4,750. In comparison, R22 and R134A have values of 1,810 and 1,430, respectively.
Advantages of R32
In conclusion, the most relevant advantages of R32 refrigerant are:
- High efficiency. In terms of performance, R32 does not have many differences compared to the refrigerant it is replacing, R410A. However, HFC32 is significantly more efficient. To give an idea, a nominal 2-row 36 x 70-inch condenser using R32 would require 40% less refrigerant than the same component using R410A to perform identical functions.
- Lower cost. R32 is a single gas, not a combination of two varieties. For this reason, it costs up to 30% less per kilogram than conventional refrigerants like R410A.
- Energy-efficient. In addition to being more cost-effective, HFC32 also lasts longer, resulting in fewer refills. In fact, it could require only a quarter of the changes compared to other refrigerants.
- Reduces electricity bills. There have been cases where the use of R32 refrigerant has reduced electricity bills by 10%.
A certain drawback
Perhaps the only certain drawback of the refrigerant we have discussed in these lines is the uncertainty about its future. Even though its GWP is much lower compared to older HFCs, 675 is still a high level when compared to refrigerants developed after the introduction of R32. The latest HFOs, such as R1234yf and R1234ze, as well as environmentally friendly options like carbon dioxide, all exhibit a global warming potential below 5.
Intersam systems use R32 and other environmentally friendly refrigerants
Committed to contributing to the mitigation of climate change, at Intersam, we develop refrigeration and air conditioning systems that are environmentally friendly. In our solutions for the industry and commerce, we incorporate cutting-edge technology to ensure high energy efficiency. We also use environmentally friendly refrigerants, including R32. Entrust us with your project, and we will actively contribute to the decarbonization of the planet.