R404A replacement

There are several viable options which depend on the application, operating conditions, and whether it will be used in a new or existing system.

For existing systems, we recommend R448A, R449A or R452B. The same applies for new installations at medium temperatures, including R134a.

In new low-temperature systems, we recommend hydrocarbons such as propane (R290) or isobutane (R600A), depending on the refrigerant charge needed.

The best options depend on the unit’s size and type.

In centralized systems common in supermarkets and hypermarkets, CO2 should be used. A lot of progress has been made to enhance its efficiency – even in high ambient temperatures. It also complies with Article 13 usage and service ban of the EU F-gas regulations.

In small installations such as glass door merchandisers (GDMs), depending on the application temperature, new systems should preferably use hydrocarbons for high performance, which relate to Article 11 of the EU F-gas regulations.   

In mid-size installations such as cold rooms, milk tanks, display cabinets, and blast freezers, there are several options which relate to Article 12 of the EU F-gas regulations. The best choice will depend on the type of application.

For further information, please refer to question 1.

-> Refer to the retrofit comparison

It depends entirely on the application. In low temperature applications, R452A provides a wider operating map without additional system components – such as vapor injection for a simpler design.

R448 and R449A deliver good energy performance and have a lower GWP than R452A.

Each refrigerant complies with Articles 11 (self-contained units), 12 (condensing units), and 13 (centralized systems) usage and service ban of the EU F-gas regulations.

However, it’s important to remember that under Article 11, none of these refrigerants can be used in self-contained units after 2022.

-> Refer to performance matrix

You will notice similar efficiency and cooling capacity when switching from R404A to R448/449A or R452A.

However, if you select the correct piping, settings, valve dimensions, and condensing and evaporating sizes, it’s possible to improve seasonal and part-load efficiency in new installations.

Standard best practices in Europe are detailed in the EN 378-1:2016 standard, Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) 97/23/EC, and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/30/EU.

Appropriate leak control and detection are also required in retrofits for traceability.

-> Refer to the retrofit guideline and article

For recommended low and medium temperature refrigerants, refer to question 1.

Due to the thermodynamic properties of R448A and R449A, both have high discharge temperatures, which will limit the operating map of any compressor.

To increase the operating map, vapor or liquid injection are required. However, both are more expensive options and liquid injection is only currently available for scroll compressors, while vapor injection will be available later in 2019.

It’s important to ensure that system oil is compatible for each component and every alternative option.

Danfoss POE oil must be used with any Danfoss commercial compressor, including subsequent future models. When changing oil, it’s also a good opportunity to change the filter dryer. to help ensure system longevity.

-> Retrofit guideline

-> Reciprocating compressors use Danfoss POE oil from 160 to 175 PZ

Scroll compressors no longer use PVE oil and now use POE oil. Refer to the technical note for more information

-> We do have such valves.

There are 2 TU valves and 8 T2 valves for R452A with MOP available. And also one TE5 valve.

You can find all relevant information at Coolselector.danfoss.com

-> Refer to the component/refrigerant matrix 

Due to the differing ages of components and refrigerant properties, not all components will necessarily be compatible with new refrigerant.

To help match the right components to each refrigerant, refer to the Danfoss Coolselector®2 calculator and Danfoss technical data sheets.

Light commercial compressors are already available for R448A and R449A.

In addition, our range of scroll compressors are also compatible with these refrigerants for both medium and low temperature applications.

Danfoss Maneurop reciprocating compressors won’t be available for R448/R449A as the operating map is smaller than for R404A.

Instead, we recommend using R452A – which is the same advice given by all reciprocating compressor manufacturers.

-> For more information, see at Coolselector.danfoss.com

-> It depends on the type of refrigerant.

Due to the differing ages of components and refrigerant properties, not all components will necessarily be compatible with new refrigerant.

To help match the right components to each refrigerant, refer to the Danfoss Coolselector®2 calculator and Danfoss technical data sheets.

-> Retrofit guideline

Only valve components that conform to Danfoss's quality process are compatible. The valves undergo several upgrades to be qualified to new refrigerants.

To see valve compatibility with refrigerants, check in Coolselector®2.