This refrigerant continues in the transition to establish itself in the different countries of Latin America as a more efficient option in air conditioning systems.
By Eng. Jimy Danelli*
Several manufacturers of air conditioning systems have already introduced R32-enabled equipment to the market. This refrigerant is a hydrocarbon, so we must know its physical-chemical characteristics in depth to work under international standards and regulations; especially with the knowledge that all professionals in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry must have in Good Practices, obtain the Certification issued by the institution that regulates the use and management of refrigerant gases.
In the case of Venezuela, it is the Industrial and Technological Reconversion Fund (FODOIN) and in each country there is a similar body that gives accreditation in good practices.
There are many professionals who I have heard say that they have already taken the course, or that they already know how everything is done; however, the important thing is to remember that every day we have to update ourselves, train ourselves and learn methods and procedures in accordance with international standards.
On the other hand, when developing a project, contractors must take into account the particular conditions of these refrigerant gases, such as R290 or R32, which in some countries have limits for their installation in residences, schools and other venues; considerations that must be taken very seriously, especially because in some countries the regulations are very rigid when it comes to not taking these particularities into account.
This R32 refrigerant commonly used in air conditioning systems is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) with a low global warming potential (GWP) and is considered a more environmentally friendly alternative to older refrigerants such as R22 or R410a.
R32 has good thermodynamic performance and is slightly flammable, making it safe for use by a qualified professional. It is also more energy efficient than R22 and R410a, which can lead to lower operating costs and lower carbon emissions. R32 is increasingly used in residential, commercial, and industrial air conditioning systems as a substitute for R22 and other older refrigerants.
Since the publication of the European F-Gas regulation banning the use of refrigerants with high global warming potential in 2014, the sector has not stopped innovating technologically to adapt to legal requirements. R410a, which had been commonly used in air conditioning, began to be discontinued once its ban on use was announced from 2025, and there began a race against time to be replaced by other gases with lower global warming potential.
We must know the differences between all these gases and evaluate each condition between R32, R22 and R410A refrigerant gases:
• Global warming potential (GWP): R32 has a lower GWP (657) compared to R22 (1810) and R410A (2088). R32's lower GWP means it has a lower impact on the environment compared to R22 and R410A.
• Energy efficiency: R32 is more energy efficient compared to R22 and R410A, which means that air conditioning systems that use R32 require less energy to operate and can result in lower electricity consumption and cost.
• Flammability: Being rated A2L, R32 has lower flammability compared to R22 and R410A, making it a safer choice for air conditioning systems.
• Toxicity: R32 is considered to be less toxic compared to R22 and R410A, but it should still be handled with caution to avoid potential harm to humans and the environment.
• Compatibility: The R32 is compatible with existing air conditioning systems that use R22 and R410A, making it a suitable alternative for upgrading existing systems. However, it is important to consider compatibility with the system and specific components before upgrading to the R32.
• Pressure: The R32 operates at a lower pressure compared to the R22 and R410A, which can result in smaller, lighter components for air conditioning systems.
• Cost: R32 is generally less expensive compared to R22 and R410A, making it a more cost-effective option for air conditioning systems.
In summary, R32 is a low-GWP, energy-efficient refrigerant that is considered a safer alternative to R22 and R410A. The choice of refrigerant will depend on several factors, such as efficiency, safety, cost, and environmental impact, and should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Refrigerant R32 R22 R410A
*Global Warming Potential (GWP) 657 1810 2088
*Energy Efficiency High Low Moderate
*Flammability Low Moderate Moderate
*Toxicity Low Moderate Moderate
*Compatibility Compatible with existing R22 and R410A systems Not compatible with R32 systems Compatible with existing R22 systems
*Pressure Low High High
*Cost Low High Moderate
Ban from 2025 on the use of high GPW refrigerant gas: The European Union's F-gas regulation (EU 517/2014) bans the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), including R410A, in new equipment from 1 January 2020 and provides for a gradual reduction of their total quantity placed on the market.
From 1 January 2025, the use of R410A and other high-GWP HFCs will be further restricted in the European Union under the F-Gas Regulation. This includes banning the use of these refrigerants in new equipment, as well as limits on the total amount that can be marketed.
In short, from January 2025, the installation of refrigerant gases greater than 750 such as R22 and R410A will be prohibited.
Therefore, with the approval of this regulation, many manufacturers began to work with R32 refrigerant for residential and semi-industrial applications.
Every day climate change makes us change the way we live and the way we work, it is important to follow the processes of updating and training, especially considering the care of the environment of this world that has given us so much.
* Jimy Danelli is a maintenance consultant in air conditioning and refrigeration. You can write to him at the email: [email protected]
