R32 a new fluid for medium-temperature Atlantic heat pumps

F-GAS: European regulations The goal of European F-Gas regulation N° 517/2014 is reducing the use of HFC (hydrofluorocarbon) gases and outlawing the use of certain fluorinated greenhouse gases by 2030.

Such measures have a direct effect on heat pump manufacturers: The establishment of quotas for producers since 2015 The halt to trading in equipment using fluid, including by

importers. R410A from 1 January 2025 according to inter- professional consensus.

No regulation forbids the use of a universal fluid that can be applied to all solutions.

FLUID R744 (CO2) R410A R134A R32 R290

(propane)

GWP (kg CO2 equivalent) 1 2088 1430 675 20

Term to know GWP: Global warming potential, an indicator of the impact of fluids on global warming.

Sources: Uniclima, Fluides HFC Quel avenir avec F Gas? [HFC Fluids What does the future look like with F Gas?] Second edition, Nov. 2017.

TRANSPORT AND OTHER USAGE PRECAUTIONS

R32 is classed as A2L, or mildly flammable . R32 is neither toxic nor explosive.

To ensure the coolant s safety, including during installation, the installer should pay particular attention to the following aspects when transporting and handling R32.

FOR STORING AND TRANSPORTING THE FLUID: Ensure that the cylinder s valve is closed and not leaking Ensure sufficient ventilation on the premises and/or in the vehicle

and preferably transport it in a vehicle whose transport component is separate from the driver s cabin

Avoid exposing the fluid to any source of ignition Store the fluid away from sunlight

WHILE HANDLING: Verify that there are no leaks during installation in order

to prevent oxygen from entering the coolant circuit Regularly monitor the sealing of the system and the amount

of coolant The regulatory framework (EN 60335) authorises the installation

of R32 equipment without imposing specific measures for a heat pump + coolant attachments in an individual home that weigh under 1.84 kg. Alfea Extensa A.I. R32 heat pumps under 8 kW are not affected by these constraints.

WHAT IS R32? R32 is an HFC fluid that is considered to be a good alternative to R410A. It offers several advantages: One-third of the GWP of R410A Thermal capacity superior to that of R410A

It is a single-component coolant, which makes it easier to recapture and recycle

Shifting to R32 ✔A certification of competence is required. ✔R32 can be used in both its liquid and gas states.

In addition to the usual tools (pipe cutter, flaring tool, vacuum pump, etc.), additional equipment is required:

Adapter to be placed on the cylinder

Ventilation system

Specific recovery cylinder

Leak detector suitable for flammable coolants

Pressure gauge with dedicated scale

Recovery station suitable for flammable coolants

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