ARLINGTON, VA — The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) announced that it will launch a second phase of the Low-Global Warming Potential (GWP) Alternative Refrigerants Evaluation Program (AREP). After successfully completing the first phase in December 2013, AHRI will continue research in areas that were not previously addressed: refrigerants in high ambient conditions (i.e., warmer climates); refrigerants in applications not tested in the first phase; and new refrigerants identified since testing for the program began.

“This program is an excellent example of our industry’s environmental stewardship,” said Stephen Yurek, AHRI president and CEO. “The research conducted in this second phase will expand the program to make it relevant to virtually all areas of the globe.”

The first phase began in 2011 as an industry-wide cooperative research initiative in response to environmental concerns raised by high-GWP refrigerants. It sought to identify promising low-GWP alternative refrigerants for major product categories including air conditioners, heat pumps and heat pump water heaters, dehumidifiers, chillers, ice makers, and refrigeration equipment.

AHRI invites applications from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), universities, and laboratories to perform tests on refrigerants for the second phase. Those interested are encouraged to contact Karim Amrane, AHRI vice president of regulatory and research, at kamrane@ahrinet.org to request a copy of the Program Handbook, which provides details such as the particulars of the program and required testing conditions.

Publication date: 1/20/2014

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