Refrigerants for chillers

As the HVACR industry continues to evolve, so do the expectations for chiller performance, environmental responsibility, and long-term reliability. Whether you're designing new systems or specifying refrigerants for commercial or industrial applications, choosing the right refrigerant is critical.

Forane® 32, Forane® 454B, Forane® HTS 1233zd, Forane® 516A, and Forane® 513A represent the latest generation of refrigerants—each offering unique advantages for different types of chiller applications.

Refrigerants for Chillers

Forane® 32 (R-32): High Efficiency for Forward-Thinking Chiller Designs

Forane^® 32 is a pure, single-component refrigerant that delivers outstanding performance and energy efficiency. It’s gaining traction in chiller applications where compact design and high capacity are key.

High energy efficiency: Offers better performance than R-410A and many blends.
Lower GWP: At 675, it’s significantly lower than R-410A.
Smaller charge size: Enables more compact, lightweight system designs.
ASHRAE A2L classification: Mildly flammable, requiring appropriate safety measures.

Ideal for: OEMs developing next-generation air-cooled and water-cooled chillers focused on energy savings and reduced environmental impact.

Forane^® 32 Product Page

Forane® 454B: A High-Efficiency Solution for Air-Cooled and Water-Cooled Chillers

Forane^® 454B is a lower-GWP replacement for R-410A, designed for use in high-efficiency chillers and other air conditioning systems. It offers:

Lower Global Warming Potential (GWP): With a GWP of 466, it significantly reduces environmental impact compared to R-410A.
Excellent Performance: Delivers similar cooling capacity and energy efficiency to R-410A, making it easier for OEMs to transition with minimal redesign.
Safety and Compliance: ASHRAE A2L classification (mildly flammable) and UL-listed for use in new equipment.
Smooth Transition: Compatible with many existing components and materials, simplifying system development and service.

Ideal for: OEMs and contractors working with air-cooled or water-cooled chillers in commercial buildings, data centers, and institutional facilities.

Forane^® 454B Product Page

Forane^® HTS 1233zd: The Low-Pressure Leader for Centrifugal Chillers

Forane^® HTS 1233zd is a single-component HFO refrigerant designed for large-scale, low-pressure chiller applications. It’s already in use by leading OEMs and offers:

Ultra-Low GWP of 1: One of the lowest in the industry, helping meet current and future environmental regulations.
Non-Flammable (ASHRAE A1): Offers peace of mind in sensitive environments like hospitals, universities, and government buildings.
High Efficiency: Optimized for centrifugal chillers, delivering excellent energy performance and long-term reliability.
Material Compatibility: Works with a wide range of oils and system components, giving OEMs design flexibility.

Ideal for: Large commercial and industrial facilities using centrifugal chillers for cooling critical infrastructure or large-scale HVAC systems.

Forane^® HTS 1233zd product page

Forane® 513A: A Safe, Sustainable Choice for R-134a Replacement

Forane® 513A is a lower-GWP, non-flammable refrigerant designed to replace R-134a in chillers and other medium-temperature systems.

GWP under 650: Helps meet current and future environmental regulations.
Non-Flammable (ASHRAE A1): Offers a high safety margin for sensitive installations.
Drop-in potential: Can be used in many existing R-134a systems with minimal changes.

Ideal for: Water-cooled chillers, process cooling, and comfort cooling in commercial buildings.

Forane® 513A Product Page

Why These Refrigerants Matter

Each refrigerant in the Forane^® portfolio is engineered to meet the demands of modern chiller applications:

Regulatory readiness: Compliant with evolving global refrigerant regulations

Energy efficiency: Supports sustainability goals and reduces operating costs

Serviceability: Backed by Arkema’s technical support and global supply chain

Need Help Choosing the Right Refrigerant?

Whether you're an OEM designing the next generation of chillers, a distributor supporting your customers, or a contractor installing and servicing systems in the field, Arkema’s Forane® team is here to help.