International HVACR News & Updates

The German S-Bahn is set to introduce new trains equipped with propane-based HVACR units, supplied by the Italian branch of Mitsubishi Electric. Between 2026 and 2032, Deutsche Bahn (DB) will receive a total of 1,350 units, including 1,170 for heating and air conditioning of train cars, and 180 for the driver cabins.

These units signify a shift from non-flammable F-gases, such as R407C and R134a, to propane, which has a lower GWP value. Due to propane's flammability, special safety measures have been implemented, including multiple small cooling circuits to ensure the refrigerant charge remains below the flammability limit set by the EN378-1 standard. Additionally, the patented design prevents leaks from allowing refrigerant to enter the train cars.

Hepworth Brewery in West Sussex is set to become the first brewery in the UK to adopt an ultra-high-temperature heat pump, replacing its traditional oil boiler. This innovative system will produce steam at 130°C and efficiently recycle waste vapor from the brewing process, leading to a significant reduction in emissions during wort boiling and a 40% cut in fuel costs.

This government-supported initiative underscores the growing role of heat pumps in enhancing sustainability within the brewing industry. Designed by the start-up Futraheat, the heat pump technology demonstrates its potential to transform industrial processes, paving the way for a greener future across various sectors.

As air conditioning becomes a necessity in Nigeria due to soaring temperatures, the improper handling of refrigerants poses a significant threat to the environment. Regulations exist to prohibit the release of these gases, but weak enforcement and a lack of training among technicians have led to widespread illegal practices. For instance, technicians often fail to conduct necessary leak tests and frequently release harmful refrigerants like R-22 into the atmosphere.

R-22 is particularly concerning, with a global warming potential 1,810 times greater than that of carbon dioxide. While Nigeria has committed to phasing out R-22 by 2030, the lack of regulatory enforcement raises doubts about achieving this target. Similar issues are seen in other African nations, including Ghana and Kenya, where compliance with environmental standards remains a challenge. As the HVACR industry grapples with these issues, raising awareness and improving training for technicians are critical steps toward a more sustainable future.