Detailed Explanation of the Main Advantages of R290 Refrigerant 1. Outstanding Environmental Performance (Core Advantage) This is the most prominent advantage of R290, which fully complies with increasingly strict global environmental regulations. Zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP = 0): R290 contains no chlorine elements that damage the atmospheric ozone layer, so it has no destructive effect on the ozone layer at all. Extremely Low Global Warming Potential (GWP = 3): The GWP value of R290 is close to zero, far lower than that of traditional synthetic refrigerants. For comparison, the GWP of R410A (a commonly used refrigerant at present) is 2088, and that of R134a is 1430. This means R290 has a negligible direct impact on global warming. 2. Excellent Thermodynamic Performance (High Efficiency and Energy Saving) As a natural working fluid, R290 has excellent thermophysical properties. High Coefficient of Performance (COP): R290 has a large latent heat of vaporization, which means it can absorb more heat during the phase change (from liquid to gas). Therefore, systems using R290 usually achieve a higher COP and are more energy-efficient than those using refrigerants such as R22 and R410A. Superior Heat Transfer Characteristics: R290 has good fluidity and high heat transfer efficiency, which helps reduce the size of heat exchangers and enables a more compact system design. Compatibility with Existing Mineral Oils and Alkylbenzene Oils: This simplifies the design and maintenance of the system. 3. Natural Working Fluid with Wide Availability Widely Available Sources: R290 is a by-product of the petrochemical industry. It has abundant sources, relatively low production costs, and does not rely on complex chemical synthesis. No Future Concerns: As a natural working fluid, it is not affected by potential supply shortages or price fluctuations caused by policy restrictions (such as the Kigali Amendment) that apply to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). 4. Long-Term Economic Benefits Low Operating Costs: Due to its high energy efficiency, equipment using R290 consumes less electricity in daily operation, which can save considerable electricity costs in the long run.
Low Charging Amount and Cost: Although R290 systems require more strict safety design, the unit cost of R290 itself is relatively low. Moreover, due to its high efficiency, the amount of refrigerant required for charging is relatively small, further reducing costs.