Danfoss has expanded its popular range of microchannel heat exchangers, with a new version optimized for use with low-density, low-GWP refrigerants like R1234ze and R515B.
The new, world-first technology solves a key design challenge for OEMs transitioning to ultra-low GWP refrigerants such as R1234ze and R515B—especially in large air-cooled chillers using screw and centrifugal compression. Typically, the low density of these refrigerants makes system performance highly sensitive to pressure drops.
But thanks to optimized micro-channel tube geometry, the new, optimized microchannel heat exchangers (MCHEs) provide the ideal balance between maximum heat rejection and internal refrigerant pressure drop. As a result, OEMs can realize a 20% reduction in refrigerant pressure drop at the component level and transition more easily to low-GWP, low-density refrigerants.
CO2 reduction goals
This change marks over a decade of innovation in MCHE as the key technology for high-efficiency systems that require a lower refrigerant charge. It enables OEMs to realize CO2 reduction goals while reaping all the benefits of customized MCHEs:
- High energy performance
- Lower refrigerant charge
- Sustainable build
These new MCHEs also mark a step forward for Danfoss in its broader roadmap for tackling energy efficiency and refrigerant change. The ultra-low GWP refrigerant R1234ze is an increasingly popular choice for HVACR applications, as it’s widely available with a GWP below 5 and has the lowest flammability of all A2L-rated refrigerants. R515B is also growing in popularity, as it has an AR5 GWP of 299 and an ASHRAE A1 safety classification.
low-density refrigerants
Jeff Tucker, Head of Micro Channel at Danfoss, explains: "The climate crisis is the biggest challenge we face, and the innovations we’re seeing today will play a crucial role in our global future. So we’re really excited to be creating new opportunities for our customers to transition to low-GWP, low-density refrigerants—and see the impact that has on CO2 emissions and energy efficiency."
"While the new MCHE technologies mark a big step towards this goal, it is not new to Danfoss", adds Luigi Zamana, Danfoss global senior director of Marketing A/C and Heat pumps. "We were pioneering with Danfoss Turbocor back in 2014, then we have developed and qualified a wide portfolio of expansion valves, sensors, and line components. With the potential of these medium-density refrigerants, we’re not stopping there. We will be introducing a range of large scroll compressors. So expect more exciting new developments soon."
