Companies with R22 refrigerants are now been urged to replace...

Companies with large amounts of equipment with R22 refrigerants are now been urged to replace the units sooner rather than later. Although many companies have undergone or are in the process of exchanging their R22 refrigerants, huge conversions still need to be undertaken to ensure that the 2015 deadline for complete R22 replacement is accomplished. Additional complications come about when considering the pressure of changing a R22 refrigeration system has upon a company that relies upon the refrigerator for its daily running. Key to a smooth transition lies with ensuring the successful project management of the removal of the R22 refrigerant and professional installation of a replacement system. Central project issues include effective and efficient utilisation of existing equipment wherever possible, construction of new building, minimising disruption to ongoing operations and the smooth integration of new plant during a suitable period. Most importantly, the careful and safe removal of the R22 and its integral chemicals is foremost to an effective exchange. The replacement of R22 also carries substantial risk as the new refrigerants contain Hydrocarbons. Consisting mostly of Iso-butane, Propane and Ammonia, these refrigerants have additional hazards associated with them which will require specialist engineering skills to deal with. In addition, there is also an impending ‘Mandatory registration' of engineers onto the ACRIB register and Companies onto the REFCOM register that must be adhered to.