Overview of HCFCs (2010 Phase out)
 |
|
Additional Info
|
Virgin HCFCs including R22 will be banned from use from January 1st 2010.
Under the Montreal Protocol it was agreed that ozone depleting substances (ODS) including CFCs and HCFCs would be phased out globally.
European timescales:
- In Europe CFCs have been banned since 1994. (e.g.R12, R502)
- The use of HCFCs has been banned in new equipment since 2000. (e.g.R22, R408A)
- The use of HCFCs in service and maintenance has been reducing since 2000 and virgin HCFC will be completely phased out by Jan 1st 2010
Note: Recycled HCFCs may be used after 2010 until 2015
HCFC Alternatives
HCFCs currently make up over 55% of the total Refrigerant & Air-conditioning market by volume in the UK. (R22 accounts for most of this figure)
What can customers do when 55% of the market is being phased out?
There are 3 options:
- Do nothing!! A high risk strategy. Will recycled material be available and at what cost?
- Replace equipment and move to natural refrigerants such as Ammonia, Carbon Dioxide, Hydrocarbons. The expensive option.
- Retrofit with HFC refrigerants. To date there are over twelve refrigerants on the market excluding the natural options to replace HCFCs. Gone are the days where one refrigerant fits all applications. choice needs to be engineered and trialled. Most of the retrofit gases can be used with mineral oils in the majority of applications.
|
Please Note:
- Customers looking for detailed guidance on the HFC alternatives should visit our www.gas2010.com site or discuss their needs with the BOC Refrigerants team 0800 02 0800
- For information on Refrigerant Services offered by BOC click here
|
|
