Airchannel is helping companies comply with legislation that phases out and removes the refrigerant R-22 from their compressed-air systems. Under EU Ozone Regulation EC2037/2000, the use of virgin R-22 refrigerant will be banned from the end of this year, as it contains ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). R-22 is used in a range of industries.From January 2010 to January 2015, recycled HCFCs will be permitted but it is expected that supplies will be limited. For companies using R-22 within their compressed-air system, this could result in a significant operational headache. The likelihood of compressed-air systems using R-22 as a coolant increases significantly for equipment that is more than 10 years old. However, the legislation also represents an opportunity to help resolve two major issues facing industry - the rising cost of energy and environmental compliance.
Andrew Barraclough, national sales manager for Airchannel, said: 'R-22 will be totally phased out from the start of 2015 and relying on recycled HCFC is a risky strategy. 'To minimise the impact on their organisation, both operationally and financially, companies should address the issue as a priority. 'Essentially businesses have three choices. 'If it fits into the legislative timetable, they can run their chilling equipment to the end of its life and then install new technology.
'The alternatives are to remove the R-22 refrigerant and replace it with another compound that is suitable for their current systems and that complies with the legislation, or outright new equipment.' Airchannel has the expertise to make the required changes or advise if new equipment will be needed to comply with the legislation. It has worked with several customers in earlier gas-removal programmes and is now bringing its up-to-date knowledge of legislation and technical solutions to bear on the issue of R-22.
A number of new products have been put forward as potential replacements for R-22, although some require greater pressures that would have major implications for system components and current system designs. With higher-pressure gases there are several potential problems, such as whether the system can sustain the new pressure, requirements for all-new control switches and difficulty of oil changes inside the refrigerant. As a result this may not be a viable option on the grounds of cost.
However, Barraclough believes the phase-out of R-22 should be viewed as an opportunity that will ultimately offer operational efficiency and has the potential to reduce day-to-day energy costs. He added: 'Some companies are using the R-22 issue as an opportunity to review their entire systems, which has become even more important with the recent increases in energy prices.
'Airchannel has looked to improve efficiency and provide overall savings benefits through updating systems, advising of changes in operational practice or, as a last resort, replacement equipment. 'It is very easy for businesses to take their systems for granted. 'But this is an issue that has a deadline and needs addressing to ensure the appropriate action can be taken in time.' Any company in doubt as to the coolant used in its compressed-air system should contact an independent expert to arrange for an assessment as soon as possible.
