R-290 Refrigeration

A: An R290 system operates on the same basic principles employed in direct expansion (DX) refrigeration systems for over a century. A compressor is used to raise the pressure of the gaseous refrigerant, after which a condenser coil is used to extract heat from the refrigerant, resulting in a phase change from gas to liquid. After the condenser, the now liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion device, and the resulting drop in pressure results in a drop in temperature of the refrigerant. The refrigerant, now much colder, then passes through an evaporator coil inside the case, extracting thermal energy from the refrigerated volume of the merchandiser, and keeping your food at a safe and stable temperature. From the evaporator coil, the now again gaseous refrigerant returns to the compressor, and the cycle repeats.

A:  R-290, despite being a flammable substance, is very safe when used properly in refrigeration applications. Only certified and trained technicians should be handling refrigerant or servicing systems. A properly designed R290 system uses components specifically designed for use around flammable substances, and the system itself is fully sealed with brazed connections, or hermetically sealed, meaning a leak of the refrigerant is very unlikely. R-290 systems also carry special markings to alert technicians working on or around these systems that the system contains a substance requiring special tools and safety equipment. Additionally, these systems are limited in the total amount of refrigerant, or “charge” the system may contain, such that if a leak were to occur, it would be unlikely to lead to a fire or explosion. In practice, R-290 equipment has been in common, widespread, and safe use for over 20 years in systems all around the globe, and due to this demonstrated history of safety, regulatory bodies in the USA have recently authorized higher allowable charges of R-290 in refrigeration equipment.

A: R-290 has a minimal impact on the environment. It is considered a natural hydrocarbon refrigerant, and it does not contribute to depleting the ozone layer like greenhouse gases. It can be compared to CO2 with its low GWP rating.

A:  Traditional commercial refrigeration systems were predominantly field-charged. Refrigerant was added to the system only after the cases and related system were installed. Conversely, R-290 systems typically employ a self-contained architecture, meaning they are charged during the manufacturing process. This eliminates a lengthy and at times complex labor step during installation, meaning R-290 systems can often be installed more quickly, and with less opportunity for leaks or other issues post-installation.