USA:  Emerson Climate Technologies says it has invested in an expanded propane R290 offering along with testing facilities for its customers.

Emerson maintains that compared to the refrigerants it will likely be called upon to replace, such as the recently delisted high GWP refrigerant R404A, propane (R290) yields more capacity with lower power consumption. In addition, although flammable with an ASHRAE rating of A3, its GWP is only 3.

Its latest lab expansion provides Emerson with both “mildly flammable” A2L and flammable A3 testing capabilities.

The company announced the introduction of R290 versions of its Copeland Scroll ZB and ZH models at Chillventa in 2014 and now says it has developed a full line of hermetic compressors compatible with R290 that are being used in walk-in and small reach-in systems where the refrigerant charge is less than 150g. This includes its Emerson AFE, low temperature, and ASE, medium temperature, hermetic compressors.

“With global regulatory actions to ban high-GWP refrigerants well underway, the adoption of R290 and other natural refrigerants is on the rise,” said Kurt Knapke, vice president, engineering & electronics, Emerson Climate Technologies. “At Emerson Climate Technologies’ test labs, we’ve found R290 capable of high-performing, efficient operation. It also has very low environmental impacts while being relatively affordable.”

Emerson says it has found propane capable of high-performing, efficient operation. Compared to the refrigerants it will likely replace, Emerson reports that it yields more capacity with lower wattage consumption. Overall, a 10% efficiency improvement has been observed.

“Emerson remains committed to research and development efforts necessary to develop technologies that are compatible with emerging refrigerants, and this line of R290 ready equipment will help make the transition to alternative refrigerants possible,” Kurt Knapke added.