The Montreal protocol is covering the phase-out of HCFC refrigerants of which R22 is the most important. In Europe the phase out of R22 has already been accomplished while the US will stop using R22 in 2020. In developing countries the phase out has started in 2015 and will be finished in 2030.
In meeting the deadlines customers can pursue new-build or retrofit strategies to cater for introduction of R22 substitutes.
Danfoss recommends "new-build" for R22 substitutes as the most economic and environmentally friendly solution in the long run.
R22 phase out general recommendations
Generally Danfoss recommends replacing the R22 systems with new ones, via alternative refrigerants.
Main arguments to build new systems are:
- Higher reliability of new systems
- Higher efficiency / energy savings
- Lower service costs / warranty on system
- Reduced carbon footprint
However, if you have to use drop-in replacements of R22, here you can find few recommendations on what you can do. Though, Danfoss takes no liability in case of malfunction of the systems with drop-in refrigerants.
Achieving R22-free operation
In meeting the compliance deadlines, operators can pursue new-build or retrofit strategies to cater for introduction of R22 substitutes.
Danfoss recommends investment in new plant purpose-built for R22 substitutes as the most economic and environmentally friendly solution in the long term.
Alternatively, existing plant can be retrofitted with hermetic compressors and controls to run on R22 substitutes, following a series of modifications and checks to ensure system reliability.
R22 retrofit
This document from Danfoss Commercial Compressors gives a thorough description of the retrofit or drop-in considerations, scenarios and process.
R22 phase out legislation
Read more about the R22 phase out in different regions in the Danfoss whitepaper.