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Impact of hydrocarbon refrigerants type on leakage rate and resulting flammability risk.

Number: 0694

Author(s) : ESMAEELIAN J., KHODABANDEH R., PALM B., IGNATOWICZ M.

Summary

The adoption of flammable natural refrigerants is increasing due to their low global warming potential and favorable thermodynamic properties. However, leaks involving these flammable refrigerants can present significant safety risks. This paper investigates how different refrigerants influence leakage rates during accidental releases, challenging the assumption in some previous research and standards that all refrigerants leak at the same rate. A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model, validated through experiments, is used to simulate the dispersion of refrigerants in a confined space. The differences in leakage rates are then incorporated into the CFD simulations, which analyze the flow dynamics and concentration profiles of R290 and R600a within a typical room setting. The results demonstrate significant differences in leakage rates between R290 and R600a. Additionally, the CFD simulations reveal distinct dispersion patterns for each refrigerant. By showing that refrigerant type affects both leakage rate and dispersion, this study highlights the necessity for safety protocols that consider the specific properties of different flammable refrigerants. This is crucial for the safe use of these environmentally friendly yet flammable refrigerants.

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Pages: 8 p.

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  • Original title: Impact of hydrocarbon refrigerants type on leakage rate and resulting flammability risk.
  • Record ID : 30033375
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Technology
  • Source: 11th IIR Conference on Compressors and Refrigerants.
  • Publication date: 2024/09
  • DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18462/iir.compr.2024.0694

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