Hoshizaki has switched to R290 for their new Steelheart Commercial Kitchen Refrigeration Series, resulting in continued energy savings and CO2 reduction.
Hoshizaki America Moves to Diversified CPC’s R290 High-Purity Hydrocarbon R290 Refrigerant
Hoshizaki has switched to R290 for their new Steelheart Commercial Kitchen Refrigeration Series, resulting in continued energy savings and CO2 reduction.
The manufacturer believes this reaffirms its commitment to sustainability at no added cost to the dealer or the consumer. R290 is one of the most environmentally friendly refrigerant gases, with a very low Global Warming Potential (GWP). Given its less aggressive properties compared to traditional refrigerants, it can also improve the overall life of the operating components within the unit.
The move to R290 coincides with the wider global phaseout of high-GWP refrigerants, which will ultimately make the likes of R134A ineligible for use within the U.S. in years to come.
“Protecting the environment has never been more important than it is right now,” said Sally Ray, Sr. Director of Marketing and Project Management, Hoshizaki America, Inc. “R290 refrigerant supplied by Diversified CPC enables us to produce an efficient, low-GWP product, which helps us have a smaller carbon footprint. Hoshizaki America is dedicated to energy efficiency in every aspect of our business and is very proud to be named the 2020 Energy Star Partner of the Year.”
Retrofitting the company’s manufacturing facility in Griffin, Georgia, to accommodate R290 was a huge undertaking for Hoshizaki. To support their transition, DCPC installed a 2,000-gallon bulk storage tank and assisted in the training of Hoshizaki technicians in the proper procedures for safely handling the product.
“R290 refrigerant supplied by Diversified CPC enables us to produce an efficient, low-GWP product, which helps us have a smaller carbon footprint.”
Sally Ray, Sr. Director of Marketing and Project Management, Hoshizaki America, Inc.
This new R290 refrigerant in Hoshizaki’s Steelheart Refrigeration saves the world from greenhouse gas emissions equal to 5,302 passenger vehicles driven in one year.
The R290 is produced at DCPC’s state-of-the-art hydrocarbon purification plant in Channahon, Illinois. To meet growing customer demand, a second production facility is currently under construction in Beaumont, Texas. Along with R290, DCPC produces and distributes R600a (refrigerant-grade isobutane), R600 (refrigerant-grade normal butane), and R1270 (refrigerant-grade propylene).
In addition to meeting or exceeding AHRI industry standards, DCPC’s high-purity products keep refrigeration and air conditioning systems running at peak efficiency for longer periods of time. The result is lower utility bills and a reduction in costly maintenance and equipment failures while increasing the overall lifespan of the appliance.
We offer a variety of high-purity refrigerants
R290 is a hydrocarbon refrigerant that has gained attention for its use as an ultra-low GWP alternative for many commercial and home applications. In fact, manufacturers are switching to sustainable solutions, such as ammonia, CO2, and hydrocarbons like R290 (and R600a), due to their thermodynamic properties, high performance, ultra-low GWP, and safety to the ozone.
Low-to-medium temperature refrigeration. R290 is commonly used in low-to-medium temperature refrigeration applications, such as freezers and refrigerated display cases. Its efficient cooling properties make it suitable for maintaining cold temperatures.
Commercial refrigeration. Propane (R290) is recognized as an eco-friendly and natural refrigerant alternative for commercial systems. It can be used in low-charge, self-contained refrigeration units.
Ice Machines: Per the final approval of EPA SNAP Rule 26 in May 2024, R290 can be used in ice machines, up to 500 grams per circuit.
Refrigeration Processing and Dispensing Equipment. Per the final approval of EPA SNAP Rule 26 in May 2024, R290 can be used in equipment such as ice cream and yogurt dispensing machines, up to 500 grams per circuit.
Ultra-Low Global Warming Potential (GWP) Another essential characteristic of R290 is its ultra-low Global Warming Potential (GWP) limit. GWP is a measure used to assess the impact of greenhouse gases (GHGs) on global warming over a specific timeframe. It quantifies the relative ability of a GHG to trap heat in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide (CO2). Propane has a significantly lower GWP than other synthetic refrigerants, making it a more sustainable choice for mitigating climate change impacts.
Energy Efficient The use of R290 can lead to energy savings. Propane exhibits superior thermodynamic performance compared to some traditional refrigerants, resulting in improved energy efficiency. It’s because propane can absorb more heat faster, leading to quicker temperature recovery. As a result, it can reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions, supporting sustainability goals.
Zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) One of the key advantages of this natural hydrocarbon refrigerant is its negligible impact on the ozone layer. R290 has zero ozone-depleting properties, or it does not contribute to the depletion of the Earth’s protective ozone layer. This attribute aligns with global efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances and prioritize using environmentally friendly alternatives.