Natural refrigeration technology is gaining traction with end users, yet, despite technological successes, there are still challenges to overcome in the form of regulatory obstacles and skill shortages.

As 2015 begins, the end of new and imported HCFCs is in sight and phasedown and limits on certain HFCs seem more and more likely. So to continue to meet refrigeration needs, f-gas proponents turn to low global warming potential (GWP) HFCs and HFOs, while advocates of natural refrigerants continue to build their case.

To continue to meet refrigeration needs, f-gas proponents are turning to low-global warming potential (GWP) HFCs and hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) while advocates of so-called natural solutions — hydrocarbons (HCs), CO2, and ammonia — continue to build their cases.

Danfoss recently sponsored and participated in ATMOsphere America 2013, a conference which discussed natural refrigerant trends, latest technologies, and regulatory issues in the U.S. and Canada.

The attention being paid to so-called natural refrigerants is showing a shift toward hydrocarbon refrigerants, even as CO2 gains a stronger foothold and ammonia maintains a high profile. But, whether or not there will be a dominant natural choice remains unclear even in Europe, much less North America.