Analysis of the choice of refrigerant for heat pumping units according to key criteria

Abstract

The paper provides an analysis of the selection criteria for refrigerants (freons) for heat pumping units (HPU). Currently, there is a worldwide trend towards the introduction of HPV as a source of thermal energy due to their efficiency, the absence of harmful emissions into the atmosphere and the use of renewable energy sources. Three main criteria are considered: 1) the degree of ozone safety; 2) the value of energy efficiency; 3) cost. According to the degree of ozone safety, there are 3 types of classification: ozone-safe, partially safe and especially dangerous. Based on national and international climate protection documents, refrigerants (freons) classified as ozone-safe should be selected. To identify the most energy-efficient refrigerants (freons), a thermophysical calculation of the fuel cycle should be performed. 4 brands of refrigerants (freons) from the ozone-free classification were selected for calculations: R-32, R-717 (ammonia), R-134a, R-410A. Based on the results of the study, it was revealed that the most effective refrigerant (freon) is the R-717 (ammonia) brand, whose electricity conversion coefficient is COP = 3.29. However, it follows from the cost analysis that this refrigerant has a high cost (11510.5 rubles per 1 kg of substance) due to the production characteristics. Refrigerants (freons) of the R-410A and R-32 brands have approximately the same cost equal to 1400 ... 1550 rubles per 1 kg of substance and also approximately similar energy efficiency COP = 3.01... 3.03. It was revealed that the most optimal choice is the refrigerant (freon) brand R-134a, which meets all three criteria: energy efficiency COP = 3.23; cost per 1 kg of the substance 2200 rubles; classification ozone-safe ODP = 0.