UK: Commercial refrigeration manufacturer Precision has launched what is believed to be the world's first blast chiller running on a new low GWP HFO refrigerant.
The Norfolk-based foodservice equipment manufacturer's new Eco Chiller runs on the HFO R1234ze which has a GWP of just 6.

In addition, the new blast chiller uses Precision's specially developed control technology to reduce the amount of power needed, so that it can operate from a single standard 13A socket, unlike other systems which require at least 16 amp connections.  The new unit also features the latest EC energy saving fan technology, cutting the fan's power consumption by up to 30%. 

Further, the new blast chiller's insulation is Precision's Envirofoam, which, perhaps appropriately for the foodservice industry, made from recycled cooking oil. It has an ODP of zero and a GWP close to zero.  Envirofoam actually requires less energy to produce than conventional polyurethane foams, while it's insulating properties and strength equal those of conventional foams, it is claimed. 

'We are very, very proud to be the first catering refrigeration manufacturer to develop a blast chiller that can use an HFO refrigerant,' said Jeremy Hall, Precision's sales director.

'We considered manufacturing the cabinet using hydrocarbon refrigerant,' he added. 'However, we decided that the safety issues around hydrocarbon outweighed the relatively small advantage in terms of the slightly lower GWP.

Solstice ze is classified as non flammable according to ASTM E-681, and by EU Test method A-11; however it is mildly flammable at temperatures higher than +30°C and is classified as A2L according to Ashrae 34. Hydrocarbon refrigerants R290 and R1270 are classified as extremely flammable.