MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J. - Honeywell has announced that Bitzer, a leader in refrigeration compressor technology, has approved the use of Genetron® Performax™ LT refrigerant in North America as an R-22 retrofit solution for medium-temperature systems, such as supermarket refrigerated cases.

Bitzer U.S. has received approval from UL, the global independent safety science company, to use Performax LT in Bitzer reciprocating compressors.

“This demonstrates Bitzer’s continued efforts to be on the forefront of technology, and to providing cost effective solutions to our ever-changing environmental issues,” said Kurt Bickler, national sales manager, Bitzer U.S.

Performax LT (R-407F) refrigerant is specifically designed to replace R-22. According to Honeywell, Performax LT provides similar performance to R-22, but requires fewer equipment modifications, has lower global warming potential (GWP), and offers improved energy efficiency versus other popular low- and medium-temperature refrigerants. The combination of these factors provides for the lowest total CO2 footprint with a non-ozone-depleting refrigerant, said the company.

“Our supermarket customers not only want to keep food cold for their customers, they also want to avoid equipment malfunctions,” said Chris LaPietra, marketing manager for the refrigerants business of Honeywell Fluorine Products. “Performax LT preserves superheat more effectively than R-407A, R-427A, MO-99, and R-422B. Preserving superheat prevents floodback issues, which protects expensive compressors.”

At this time, Bitzer low-temperature system conversions must be “pre-approved.” Contact a Honeywell or Bitzer representative prior to deciding to convert a low temperature Bitzer system to Performax LT. For medium-temperature system retrofit guidelines specific to Bitzer compressors, contact Bitzer U.S. at techsupport@bitzerus.com.

Performax LT is available through Honeywell Genetron wholesale suppliers. For more information, visit www.genetronperformaxlt.com.

Publication date: 04/18/2011