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Converting a military environmental control unit to propylene refrigerant.

Author(s) : WESTPHALEN D.

Summary

Conversion of a military environmental control unit from R-407C to a hydrocarbon refrigerant was investigated. The key objective was reduction of size/weight while maintaining capacity and power input. Initial analysis indicated that propylene would be the most promising hydrocarbon refrigerant. Testing was done with a prototype unit charged with R-407C and subsequently with propylene. Capacity was 12% higher and COP was 10% higher when operating with propylene. Analysis showed that the condenser could have 8.5% less face area, and that initial 32 inch (813 mm) unit height could be reduced 2 inches (51 mm). Tracer gas testing was done to determine refrigerant concentrations generated due to leakage rates of 0.5 and 9 kg/h. The testing showed that some locations could build up concentration levels above the LFL. However, locations with likely ignition sources (i.e. the interior of electric boxes) did not experience levels close to the LFL.

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Details

  • Original title: Converting a military environmental control unit to propylene refrigerant.
  • Record ID : 2007-1713
  • Languages: English
  • Source: 2006 Purdue Conferences. 18th International Compressor Engineering Conference at Purdue & 11th International Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Conference at Purdue [CD-ROM].
  • Publication date: 2006/07/17

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