Having already secured the distribution of R448A to the Australian and New Zealand market, Heatcraft Australia is now looking to specify the new refrigerant as an application option across its Kirby condensing unit and refrigeration equipment range.
The new refrigerant is already kicking goals, with WA contractor Goff’s Refrigeration working with Heatcraft Australia to design, install and commission R448A refrigeration systems for the prestigious new Perth Stadium project.
The low temperature applications including special -40°C blast freezers are serviced by custom designed and built water-cooled basic condensing units, air-cooled condensing units and Kirby 9000 Series Evaporators - all operating on R448A.
It is little wonder the relatively new to market HFO blend is gaining traction, given the impressive energy efficiency and energy savings being experienced, when compared to R404A.
In low and medium temperature applications, manufacturer Honeywell reports R448A has been achieving gains of up to 7.5 per cent in refrigeration capacity and can achieve power consumption reductions of 3-4 per cent – a significant impact on carbon footprint and running costs for any business owner, large or small.
Heatcraft Australia is currently conducting field trials with one of its major customers in a commercial refrigeration application.
The customer has reported preliminary performance results are exceeding expectations, providing further verification of equivalent system performance and suitability.
R448A has been designed to be easily retrofitted into existing R404A systems, requiring minimal component changes. No oil change (POE) is required or tube work changes. Minor adjustment of the TX valves is all that may be required.
R448A is safety classified A1: non-toxic and non-flammable. With around 25 per cent HFO content, the GWP has been lowered to 1387.
This represents 2/3 reduction in comparison to R404A and gives R448A the lowest GWP of any A1 retrofit refrigerant for low temperature applications.
The refrigerant has been tested and endorsed by major compressor manufacturers and approved for use with Dorin H Series and Copeland compressors.
It is also suitable to be used with leading control brands, including Danfoss, Emerson and Dixell.
Customers interested in a Kirby customised refrigeration solution, suited to R448A should speak to their Heatcraft consultant on 13 23 50.