CO2 Refrigeration
CO2 Refrigeration
CO2 refrigeration systems offer retailers a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution with low global warming potential (GWP), alongside various operational benefits. At Hussmann, we are committed to sustainable refrigerants, including CO2. Talk to your Hussmann sales representative to tailor a solution that aligns with your store's specific objectives.
Why use CO2 as a refrigerant?
Using CO2 as a refrigerant offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive option for new stores or remodels. CO2 refrigerant, also known as R-744, is environmentally friendly because of its low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1, making it a sustainable and natural refrigerant option. Additionally, CO2 is non-toxic and non-flammable.
Financially, CO2 offers lower long-term operating costs because it requires less maintenance than traditional refrigerants. Its versatility makes it suitable for both supermarket and industrial refrigeration applications, and it is more affordable than synthetic refrigerants. This is partly because CO2 systems require less refrigerant overall to operate. CO2's efficiency allows for the use of smaller compressors and pipes. This leads to more compact refrigeration systems compared to those using HFCs.
Whether you are building a brand new store or updating equipment in an existing one, CO2 may be an attractive refrigerant option depending on your goals. If you have questions about CO2, we can help answer them and make recommendations based on your needs.
CO2 Refrigeration Key Points:
- Environmentally Friendly: Low GWP of 1
- Renewable and Natural: A natural refrigerant option
- Safety: Non-toxic and non-flammable
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets current standards with minimal future regulatory risk
- Cost-Effective: Lower long-term operating costs with reduced maintenance compared to traditional refrigerants
- Affordability: CO2 refrigerant (R-744) is less expensive than synthetic refrigerants when compared to HFC systems
CO2: Frequently Asked Questions
CO2 as a Refrigerant
CO2 P/H Diagram
Carbon Dioxide, or CO2, is a naturally occurring compound in Earth’s atmosphere. It is the fourth most common atmospheric compound, behind nitrogen, oxygen, and argon. Carbon dioxide is an integral part of the life cycle of plant and animals, as the primary product of respiration in animals and humans, and the primary carbon source for plants via photosynthesis.
In recent decades, carbon dioxide has been identified as the most significant greenhouse gas in Earth’s atmosphere. It is currently used as the comparative unit of measure when discussing the global warming impacts of various activities, leading to the term “carbon footprint.” CO2 as a refrigerant has emerged as one of the frontrunners to be the refrigerant of the foreseeable future. It has the advantages of being environmentally friendly, and has good heat transfer properties with a high latent heat of vaporization.
At Hussmann, we don't feel comfortable declaring any one solution as "future proof" since new technologies often emerge and food retailers are always advancing to meet their customers' needs. However CO2 meets updated regulatory compliance standards including the AIM Act, and it has a very little possibility of future regulation.
Want to learn more about CO2?
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CO2 Refrigeration Solutions
Insight Reach-In
Insight Merchandisers
Transcritical CO2 Refrigeration
