Performance analysis of R290 as a substitute for R404A on 12,000 Btuh cold storage capacity

Abstract

Cold Storage is a machine that has a very low temperature:-30°C which is used for the freezing process. Cold storage used for this research has a capacity of 18,000 Btuh with R404A. This refrigerant does not contain ODP but still contains a very high GWP: 3940 compared to R290. R290 (propane) is GWP:4 and ODP:0. But this refrigerant has flammable properties between LFL-UFL: 2-10%. The cold room dimensions: 3 x 1.5 x 2.5:11.25m 3 . The testing methodology by comparing the performance of R404A with R290 cold storage conditions was tested without using a cooling load with a room temperature setting of -29°C, room temperature of 35°C and RH: 70%. Time Testing is carried out for 90 minutes. From the test results obtained data: evaporator temperature: -29°C with a time of 68 minutes for R290 and 95 minutes for R404A, LP: R404A / R290: 12/6 Psig, discharge pressure: 215 / 175 Psig and the amount of refrigerant entered in the system: 3500/1800 grams and electric current: 4.1/2.9 Amperes. From the data analysis, it can be concluded that R290 has better performance, energy-saving, and environment friendly compared to R404A.