Manufacturers of hermetic compressors are turning their attention to alternative refrigerants that could represent a long-term solution to ongoing to government regulation. Although it’s commonly acknowledged that there is no one-size-fits-all answer, natural refrigerants, such as carbon dioxide (R-744), ammonia (R-717), and the hydrocarbon (HC) refrigerants propane (R-290) and isobutane (R-600), have been garnering attention.
According to John Prall, technical support, North American region, Embraco, propane appears to hold the greatest potential for widespread use in self-contained refrigeration systems. He noted ammonia is highly toxic; carbon dioxide operates at very high pressures and does not condense well in hot environments; and, although propane and isobutane have similar properties, propane is better suited for hermetic compressors with larger displacements. Both propane and isobutene, however, are flammable, and that has been a major cause for concern among refrigeration contractors and their technicians. But, through proper training, good awareness, and some basic safety procedures, the risk of working with flammable refrigerants is very manageable, said Prall.