Performance assessment of alternate refrigerants for retrofitting R22 based air conditioning system

Abstract

The performance of zero ozone depletion potential refrigerants is investigated when retrofitted in R22 based air conditioning system. The options evaluated are R407C, R417A, R422D, R427A, and R438A. In order to arrive at most suitable alternative(s) to R22, energy and exergy performance of candidate refrigerants is carried out and compared against that of R22. The COP and exergy efficiencies showed that none of selected refrigerant is as efficient as R22 however their values suggests that each may be considered as potential substitute for retrofitting. Having comparable COP to others but low cooling capacity of R417A makes it less attractive. With comparatively reduced COP, lowest exergy efficiency and highest mass-flow rate, makes R422D the least desirable option. The R407C, R427A, and R438A emerged as most attractive substitutes. The lower discharge temperatures of substitutes will enhance the compressor life. Further, for substitutes there may be a possible change out of expansion valve.