The Australian Green Cooling Council on Transcritical CO2 Supermarket Refrigeration

Most supermarkets across the globe use HCFC 22 for refrigerant. The problem with HCFC 22 is that it contributes to ozone depletion and has a very high Global Warming Potential (GWP). That’s why governments and businesses are looking for eco-friendly alternatives. One such alternative might just be CO2.

The Australian Green Cooling Council recently released research on transcritical CO2 supermarket refrigeration. In its study, the Council recognizes that reducing a company’s carbon footprint impacts more than just the environment; it also has economic, regulatory and corporate image benefits. Utilizing CO2 as a refrigerant can help decrease a company’s ecological footprint.

Here are some benefits of transcritical CO2 supermarket refrigeration:

• Lowest GWP possible
• Very low cost
• Excellent heat transfer
• Nontoxic
• Not flammable
• No significant safety barriers

Currently in Australia, there are approximately 30 cascade CO2 systems in commercial refrigeration and food processing facilities. It’s likely not more widespread because of higher design and installation costs. Other hurdles for bringing the alternative to market include:

• Scarcity of experienced technicians in the design, installation and maintenance of CO2 systems
• Negative ideas about using CO2 as a refrigerant
• Risks involved with trying something new

The chart below, courtesy of the Australian Green Cooling Council, compares the advantages and disadvantages of transcritical C02, cascade CO2 and secondary refrigeration systems:

 
To learn more about CO2 refrigeration, visit East Coast Refrigeration on the web or dial (631) 249-4556 today. Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook, Twitter and Google+!