The refrigeration industry has used hydrocarbons as refrigerant in household and light commercial appliances for many years. Now we see a growing markets for systems using these refrigerants for larger applications and for heat pumps.

Hydrocarbon refrigerants are non-toxic refrigerants and a good substitute to HFC and HFO’s. Their use is becoming popular as they are one of the most climate-friendly and cost-effective refrigerants used in heating and cooling.

Hydrocarbon refrigerants provide more efficient cooling due to their high latent heat of evaporation. As a result, smaller compressors can be used leading to greater energy efficiency.

Sensors for hydrocarbons
Capacitive sensors and switches developed for CO2 can be used for hydrocarbons because the dielectric constant has a similarly low level. The pressure in the gas phase is lower, so the gas requires more room and larger suction pipes are used for these refrigerants. This means vapor quality sensors must be much larger for hydrocarbons due to larger volume and low dielectric constant.

Sensors for hazardous environments
All hydrocarbon refrigerants are classified as highly flammable, so special precautions must be taken. All the sensors and switches are available in Ex versions if that is needed for the installation.