AHRI launches second phase of low-GWP refrigerant program
AHRI announced it will begin the second phase of its Low-Global Warming Potential (GWP) Alternative Refrigerants Evaluation Program (AREP). After successfully completing the first phase in December 2013, the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute 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 AHRI President and CEO Stephen Yurek. “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, universities, and laboratories to perform tests on refrigerants for the second phase. Interested companies are encouraged to contact Karime Amrane, AHRI vice president of regulatory and research, to request a copy of the program handbook which provides details such as the particulars of the program and required testing conditions.
On January 16, 2014, AHRI will present the results of the first phase at the Low-GWP AREP Conference in New York City. For more information about the first phase of the program and to register for the event, go here.
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