Let’s review R-32

HVAC manufacturers are transitioning to low-GWP refrigerants per the EPA rule. The transition of Chillers, packaged rooftop systems, and water source heat pumps to low-GWP R-32 increases efficiency and reduces emissions. The unique properties of R-32 refrigerant help deliver additional advantages such as high full—and part-load efficiencies, reduced unit weight and footprint, and easier serviceability.

Eco-friendly solutions now feature R-32, a low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant. These help consulting engineers, contractors, and building operators decarbonise facilities. Recently, Daikin Applied introduced upgraded versions of the Trailblazer AGZ-F air-cooled scroll chiller, Maverick II packaged rooftop system, and SmartSource  water source heat pump (WSHP). These products offer sustainable comfort while leveraging the unique properties of R-32, including superior energy efficiency at full and partial loads, lighter unit weight, compact design, and simplified maintenance.

Jim Macosko, vice president of product and sustainability solutions at Daikin Applied, said, “All HVAC manufacturers are transitioning to low-GWP refrigerants per EPA rule, but that does not mean all low-GWP refrigerants are the same. We decided to re-engineer our equipment specifically for R-32 to provide a range of benefits beyond the GWP value of the refrigerant. With the Trailblazer AGZ-F, for example, we could drop a bank of V coils and reduce the size of the chiller because of R-32’s superior capacity and efficiency. Smaller, lighter, more efficient – these benefits provide value across the entire lifecycle of the machine and system.”

R-32 is now preferred for applications over the previously used R-410A refrigerant. As a single-component refrigerant, R-32 boasts a two-thirds lower GWP compared to R-410A and is easy to top off, recharge, and reclaim in the field. Not only is R-32 a more sustainable choice, but it is also one of the most efficient, proven, and accessible options available. With over 280 million R-32 HVAC units installed worldwide, this refrigerant has been tested and widely recognised for its exceptional performance.

The Trailblazer AGZ-F is optimised for R-32 refrigerant. It is an air-cooled scroll chiller that delivers reductions in spatial footprint, weight, and refrigerant charge and improvements in integrated part load value compared to previous models. With a 30—to 240-ton range, the Trailblazer serves a variety of applications, from mission-critical buildings and data centres to hospitals and manufacturing facilities.

Maverick II is a 30- to 50-ton commercial packaged rooftop system now available with R-32 refrigerant. Arriving as a fully integrated solution, the Maverick II offers significant design and installation cost savings. It comes with factory-installed options, such as energy recovery and modulating hot gas reheat, all of which enhance performance across the unit’s life. Maverick II is ideal for one- to three-story buildings, including offices, schools, libraries, etc.

With low-GWP R-32, the SmartSource WSHP boosts performance and uses less refrigerant than other WSHPs. The horizontal and vertical 2- to 6-ton configurations now offer a standard two-stage compressor option, resulting in high efficiencies, low-noise operation, high indoor air quality and consistent air temperatures. With a ½ to 25-ton range, these WSHPs are optimal for schools, clinics, office buildings and other projects where cost savings and high efficiency are key.

To learn more, visit www.daikinapplied.com