R22 Replacement 1

[ChrisConley]

This is topic that has come up a few times for instance:

thread403-76193

From the discussion mentioned above I received the following information: The best drop-in replacement refrigerant is:

R407C, R17A, R134A and/or R417A

I know each has its own advantanges and disadvantages, but generally speaking what really is the best drop in R22 replacement?

My specific application is an ice rink that is being torn down and a new one built on top. The owner would like to keep the existing refrigeration equipment - Shell and tube HX, calcium chlorine is the secondary refrigerant. Although R22 doesn't phase out untill 2020 I'd still like to replace it now while we're doing work.

As always thanks all.

 

[wilg]

I have seen R134a used more than anything else,
check with suppliers, look at the pressure-enthalpy charts,
and review the costs involved.

 

[RACandH]

http://www.suva.dupont.com/

R 407C but it's not a "drop-in." POE oil required.

 

[ProfSporlan]

Unfortunately, replacing R-22 in a large refrigeration system with an HFC substitute won't be easy... at least not a slam dunk. Depending upon your choice, you will need to one or more of the following: (1) replace the refrigerant oil with POE; (2) replace flow controls; (3) add compressor capacity; (4) possibly resize some refrigeration lines.

If your goal is to reuse your refrigeration system with little or no modifications, you best bet may well be to stick with R-22. It'll be around for a long time.

 

[NorgenLou]

In addition to the thermodynamic differences of replacement refrigerants, Some use different oils (POE oils?)in the refrigerant piping which is incompatible with the oils typically used in R-22 systems. The changeover would require a system flush-out before converting. Some of these oils will soften & destroy gaskets and/or seals in equipment designed for R-22. In that case the equipment needs to be broken down and have the seals converted. Sorry I don't recall the specifics, but it's been about 8 years since I've been up on that stuff! Try a refrigerant supplier (DuPont) or a compressor rebuilder(United Rebuilders) for more specific advice.

 

[ChrisConley]

Thanks all, as always this forum has given me a few pushes in the right direction.

 

[ClydeMule]

Another refrigerant that is not a "drop in" but good for your application is 404a.

Clyde

 

[icer]

You should consider very closely the gasket situation described by ProfSporlan as it might be a big problem.

Also consider that if you just change to R134a, the capacity of the compressors will be much lower. I undertand you do not want to change the compressors. You must check in manuals capacities and electric consumption of compressors with the new refrigerant.

Consider also that R-407c has a big glide. Something a little complex to describe here and related with the non azeotropic mixtures, but this might lead to degradation of the refrigerant, problems with oil, etc..

I think a better alternative is R-404a wich also has a glide problem, but smaller. You have clean all the system, change oil, confirm gaskets will work with POE (Polyester oil), when charging the R-404a must be donde in liquid phase.

Hope some of this might help you.

Regards