Conversión de sistemas Split de R22 a R290: Evaluación técnica y protocolos de seguridad

Erick Ariel Anchundia-López; Darwin Fabian Cedeño-Saltos; Carlos Luis Andrade-Solorzano; Hugo F. Zuñiga-Puebla

Authors

Anchundia-López Erick Ariel Instituto Superior Tecnológico Luis Arboleda Martínez. Manta, Ecuador. https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4436-2700
Cedeño-Saltos Darwin Fabian Instituto Superior Tecnológico Luis Arboleda Martínez. Manta, Ecuador. https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0389-0104
Andrade-Solorzano Carlos Luis Instituto Superior Tecnológico Luis Arboleda Martínez. Manta, Ecuador. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3418-4330
Zuñiga-Puebla Hugo F. Escuela Politécnica Nacional. Quito, Ecuador. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0732-8108

Keywords:

R290, R22, energy efficiency, flammability, conversion, thermodynamics, safety protocols, air conditioning

Abstract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/ig.v9i17.0324

Abstract

This research addresses the critical issues associated with the refrigerant transition in air conditioning systems in the Andean region, specifically in Ecuador, in accordance with the commitments made under the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment. This article focuses on the comprehensive technical retrofit of split-type air conditioning units, designed to operate with chlorodifluoromethane (R22), to use propane as refrigerant (R290). R290 is identified as a suitable alternative due to its excellent thermodynamic properties, zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), and negligible Global Warming Potential (GWP). The main objective of this article is to analyze the technical feasibility and energy performance of the conversion from R22 to R290 thorough evaluation of operational measurements under controlled field conditions. Critical variables such as suction pressure, discharge pressure, phase change temperatures, turbine outlet temperature, electrical consumption, and amperage were monitored during comparative operating cycles. In addition, rigorous and indispensable safety protocols are established for the mitigation of risks associated with high flammability, classification A3 of R290. The analysis results confirm that the conversion significantly optimizes the equipment's energy efficiency, registering an average decrease in electrical consumption of over 25%, accompanied by a reduction in compressor discharge temperatures, which promotes the system's mechanical longevity. However, an increase in air outlet temperature was detected, suggesting the need for fine-tuning the expansion device. The research concludes that the conversion is a technically and environmentally sound solution, strictly contingent upon the implementation of standardized safety protocols and specialized technical training.

Keywords: R290, R22, energy efficiency, flammability, conversion, thermodynamics, safety protocols, air conditioning.

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References

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