An evaluation of options for replacing HCFC-22 in medium temperature refrigeration systems

Due to the ongoing global phase-out of R-22, which is still the most widely used refrigerant around the world, there is a need to replace this refrigerant in many different applications. This paper focuses on a thorough evaluation of the R-22 replacement options for medium-temperature refrigeration applications. It includes a thermodynamic analysis, comparison of heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics, system performance comparisons using a validated detailed system model, safety issues, and determination of the environmental impact of refrigerant selection. Three potential alternatives to the R-22 were studied: two HFCs (404A and R-410A) and one HC (R-290). An HFC refrigerant, R-410A, is shown to be an efficient and environmentally acceptable option to replace R-22 in medium temperature applications.