Performance Evaluation of Air Conditioning System Using Blend Refrigerant as a Low-GWP Alternative to R410A under Different Conditions

This study examines the thermodynamic performance of a ternary refrigerant mixture composed of R32, R1234ze (E), and R152a (20/20/60 % by mass fraction) as a low-global warming potential (GWP) alternative to R410A in vapour compression refrigeration systems. The simulation was performed using REFPROP under standard operating conditions linked with an engineering equation solver, including 5 K of superheating and 5 K of subcooling. Under different operating conditions of constant evaporation temperature (Te = 5 °C) with varying condensation temperatures (TC) (40 to 55 °C by step 2.5°C). Key parameters, including cooling capacity (Qₑ), compressor work (Wc), pressure ratio (Pr), discharge temperature (TD), mass flow rate (ṁ), and volumetric efficiency (ηᵥ), were evaluated to assess performance. The mixture’s discharge temperature was slightly lower than that of R410A; this will reduce compressor thermal stress and increase compressor life span. Charts illustrating the effect of Tc on all performance indicators were created. In addition to thermodynamic analysis, safety considerations were reviewed. Despite its mild flammability (A2L), the adopted mixture demonstrated stable operation across various conditions and offers potential for applications where safety measures can be effectively implemented. The results indicate that the new mixture presents an energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable replacement for R410A. Further experimental validation is recommended to confirm these findings in real-world scenarios.