Pressure to make sustainable choices
Following the ban on the refrigerant R22, countless installations had to be converted or replaced. We have now taken a few more steps forward. The refrigerants chosen as alternatives at the time, such as R507 and R404A, are now prohibited in new buildings. “The revised version of the European F-Gas Regulation and the associated quota system further restrict the use of refrigerants with a high climate impact (high GWP)”, says Erik Hoogendoorn of Equans Refrigeration & Heating Solutions. “The pressure to make sustainable choices has therefore increased.”
Stricter fire safety regulations
“The transition to low-GWP refrigerants means that more flammable substances are being used”, says Hoogendoorn. “The lower the GWP, the greater the risk of flammability.” Propane is being used more and more as an alternative to synthetic refrigerants. It is an excellent gas, but it is also explosive. Ammonia is less flammable, but it poses other safety challenges. CO₂ is non-flammable, but can cause suffocation if leaked, and requires special installation due to the high pressure and higher power connection. As a result, arable farmers must handle their cooling machines differently and may be restricted by fire safety regulations or their location.
Regulations are in a state of flux
Visible and invisible factors influence the choices made by arable farmers. Hoogendoorn continues: “One of those invisible factors is safety regulations, which are currently in flux.” An overview:
- PGS13, the guideline for the use of ammonia, has been revised. This has changed the requirements for the immediate environment, and therefore for the user. The requirements for designing and installing storage or cooling systems, as well as managing and maintaining them, have become more stringent.
- New practical guidelines are being introduced for CO₂ (NPR 7601) and flammable refrigerants (NPR 7600).
- The European standard EN 378, which forms the basis of refrigeration technology, is being revised. This will have consequences for leak detection, filling limits, and the handling of refrigerants.
Consequences for your storage facility
In addition to technical issues, the choice of a new storage system or refrigerant is determined by various operational factors. Firstly, consider the product. For example, potatoes require a different storage climate to onions or grass seed. Equally important is the storage time. Short-term storage requires a different system to long-term storage. The season of use also plays a role. For example, a system that is mainly used in summer must also be able to operate efficiently at high outdoor temperatures.
“With fire safety in mind, location is another factor that needs to be taken into account”, says Hoogendoorn. “Is the installation indoors or outdoors? And how far is it from sources of ignition? The energy supply is also a factor. How large is your current grid connection, and can it be expanded? Finally, we can look at the heat requirement and possibilities for utilising residual heat, for example for workspaces or processes.”
The three most important refrigerant options
Three natural refrigerants remain the most relevant choice for arable farmers looking to renew or make their storage more sustainable. Ammonia has already been proven effective by several agricultural companies. It is suitable for larger installations and longer storage periods. It also offers good fire safety if the installation is located outdoors.”
CO₂ has the advantage of being non-flammable, but it requires a substantial electricity supply. It also works transcritically, being most efficient in winter and less so in summer. Propane is efficient but flammable, which limits its use. It also requires additional safety measures and careful installation.
Making choices together
“The days when we, as installers, could simply propose the best technical solution are over”, says Hoogendoorn. “The choice of a storage system now depends on the cultivation plan, intended use, location, and future plans.” Do you want to expand the business? Is the next generation coming in? Or is the timeframe shorter? Safety, regulations and the available energy supply are just as important. By working closely with you, we can find the best solution.”
