Investigation of using low GWP alternatives to replace R404A in the refrigeration system

Abstract

In recent years, the use of refrigerants, which increase the global warming potential by creating a greenhouse effect, has begun to be restricted in refrigeration systems. More environmentally friendly and more efficient synthetic mixtures and natural refrigerants are replacing refrigerants with high global warming potential. In this study, R404A refrigerant, which is frequently preferred in refrigeration systems, especially in residential split air conditioner applications, and has a high global warming potential, was discussed. Eight different refrigerants (R407H, R448A, R454A, R454C, R457A, R468A, R290, R1270) that could be alternatives to R404A refrigerant were examined and compared with R404A. Energy, exergy, and environmental analyzes were performed under the same conditions according to -10 ℃, -5 ℃, and 0 ℃ evaporating temperatures. Among the refrigerants, R290 had the best value with a coefficient of performance of 4.11 and an exergy efficiency of 40.04%. The values of R1270 refrigerant were also almost the same as R290. Even if R468A shows the lowest performance, it can be preferred over R404A because its global warming potential is lower than R404A.