EPA SNAP-lists R123 alternatives
USA: The EPA has SNAP-listed two new R123 alternatives and expanded the acceptable uses of R513A and CO2 in air conditioning and refrigeration.
A determination of acceptability, listed in tomorrow’s Federal Register, expands the list of acceptable substitutes under the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) programme.
Already listed as acceptable as a foam blowing agent, the HFO 1336mzz(Z) is determined to be acceptable in centrifugal chillers, positive displacement chillers and industrial process air conditioning. This is in new equipment specifically designed for use of 1336mzz(Z) and not as a retrofit. It is, however, deemed acceptable for use in new and as a retrofit gas in non-mechanical heat transfer applications.
Developed by Chemours, HFO 1336mzz(Z) has been seen as a potential replacement for R123. It has a 100-year GWP of about nine.
HFO1336mzz(Z) is also to be found in another new Chemours blend deemed acceptable under the SNAP regulations. XP30, proposed for ASHRAE designation as R514A, blends 1336mzz(Z) with trans-1,2-dichloroethene, a gas not previously used in refrigerants. Another potential replacement for R123 in centrifugal and positive-displacement chillers, R514A is deemed acceptable as a retrofit gas as well as in new equipment.
The EPA has also extended the acceptability of R513A as a substitute for R134a in both new and retrofit retail food refrigeration, refrigerated food processing and dispensing equipment.
Marketed by Chemours as Opteon XP10, R513A was previously SNAP-listed for use in chillers.
Previously listed as an acceptable refrigerant in a number of refrigeration and air conditioning end-uses, the acceptability of carbon dioxide (R-744) has also been extended for use in ice skating rinks, centrifugal chillers, positive displacement chillers and industrial process air conditioning.
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