Featured A2L Products
Catch-All Filter Driers
Thermostatic Expansion Valves
Refrigerant Solenoid Valves
Refrigerant Electric Expansion Valves
Kelvin II Controllers
See-All Moisture and Liquid Indicators
Catalog A2L-AC
Low-GWP Climate Control Solutions
The Parker Sporlan A2L Refrigerants Catalog is a comprehensive resource featuring a wide range of components specifically designed for use with low-global warming potential (GWP) A2L refrigerants. This catalog provides detailed specifications, product features, and application guidance to help HVACR professionals select the right equipment for safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
Configure Your A2L Compatible Components Using Virtual Engineer
A2L Refrigerant FAQs
What Classifies as an A2L Refrigerant?
The term "A2L" in the context of refrigeration refers to the safety classification of refrigerants under the standards set by ASHRAE. The classification system is based on two primary factors: toxicity (denoted by the letter A or B) and flammability (denoted by the numbers 1, 2, 2L, or 3). "A" indicates a lower level of toxicity, while "B" indicates a higher level. The numbers refer to flammability levels, with "1" being non-flammable, "2L" indicating mildly flammable, "2" indicating moderately flammable, and "3" indicating highly flammable.
What is the Sustainability of A2L Refrigerants?
HFO-based A2L refrigerants present an economically viable option providing a significant reduction in GWP when compared to HFCs and necessitating minimal alterations to existing systems or equipment. Parker Sporlan A2L compatible components are engineered for the performance characteristics of the A2L refrigerants minimizing the need for extensive reengineering. This makes them an ideal choice for those seeking cost-effectiveness.
What A2L Refrigerants Are Available?
The most commonly used A2L refrigerants are R-454A, R454B, R454C, R32, R-455A, R-1234yf. A2L refrigerants are extensively used in Europe and Japan, and their uptake is rapidly increasing in North America. Numerous states in the U.S. have updated their building regulations to permit the use of A2L refrigerants. As codes and standards reach their final form, it is anticipated that these refrigerants will be widely adopted across the country by 2024.
What is an A2L Refrigerant Classification?
The classification table of Standard 34 by ASHRAE is intended to sort refrigerants based on two main criteria: their toxicity levels and their flammability. In terms of flammability, the classification of refrigerants is determined by various factors. These include the concentration of refrigerant in a given volume of air that can sustain a fire, the energy required to start a fire, the energy emitted during combustion, and the speed at which the fire spreads.
HVACR Component and Refrigerant Matrix
With all the numerous refrigerant options in the HVACR industry, it’s important to know which system components are compatible. To ease in your product selection, Sporlan provides this document as a reference to use when selecting Sporlan HVACR components for a specific refrigerant.
A2L Refrigerants and What You Should Know
A2L Refrigerants
How Flammable are A2L Refrigerants
A2L refrigerants are classified as mildly flammable under the ASHRAE safety classification. This means that while they can ignite under specific conditions, they generally have a lower risk of ignition compared to highly flammable substances.
The A2L classification is broken down as follows:
- "A" refers to low toxicity.
- "2L" refers to low flammability due to lower burning velocity.
A2L refrigerants, such as R-32 or R-1234yf, are often used as alternatives to more environmentally harmful refrigerants like R-22 or R-134a. However, their mild flammability requires careful handling and installation to mitigate potential fire risks.
It's also important to note that the flammability of A2L refrigerants is influenced by several factors, including the concentration of the refrigerant in the air, the presence of ignition sources, and the specific conditions of the environment (like temperature and pressure). Therefore, while they are considered mildly flammable, they should still be handled with caution.
A2L Refrigerants
Understanding A2L Refrigerants
HFO-based A2L refrigerants present an economically viable option providing a significant reduction in GWP when compared to HFCs and necessitating minimal alterations to existing systems or equipment. They also contribute less to global warming if they're accidentally released into the atmosphere.
Parker Sporlan A2L compatible components are engineered for the performance characteristics of the A2L refrigerants minimizing the need for extensive reengineering. This makes them an ideal choice for those seeking cost-effectiveness.
A2L Refrigerants
A2L Performance in HVACR
The exact performance can vary depending on the specific type of A2L refrigerant used and the specific application. As technology evolves and environmental regulations become stricter, it's expected that the HVACR industry will continue to innovate and develop new refrigerants and systems that offer improved performance and lower environmental impact.
As always, it's important to follow manufacturer guidelines and local regulations when using any refrigerant. UL60335-2-40 and UL60335-2-89 are important safety standards developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), aimed at ensuring the safe design, manufacturing, and operation of various types of cooling and refrigeration equipment. UL60335-2-40 specifically provides guidelines for electrical heat pumps, air-conditioners, and dehumidifiers. UL60335-2-89 outlines safety requirements for commercial refrigerating appliances and ice-makers. Both standards have been updated to include provisions for the use of new mildly flammable A2L refrigerants, reflecting the industry's shift towards these lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants.
