HONOLULU, HI — Models that would simulate the performance of high-efficiency equipment with R-22 alternatives will be developed through research funded by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

The project, approved at ASHRAE’s 2002 Annual Meeting, is 1173-TRP, “Improvements and Validation of Unitary Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Simulation Models for R-22 and HFC Alternatives at Off-Design Conditions.” The principle investigator is Eckhard Groll at Purdue University.

ASHRAE says that the models would accurately predict off-design refrigerant conditions and system performance trends. The society also says that increased condenser size (relative to the evaporator) in higher efficiency designs makes good charge management even more important.