1. home and garden
2. appliances
3. refrigerators and freezers

WORK STATEMENT COVER SHEET
29 JAN 2014
Date:
(Please Check to Insure the Following Information is in the Work Statement )
A. Title
B Executive Summary
C. Applicability to ASHRAE Research Strategic Plan
D. Application of the Results
E. State-of-the-Art (background)
F. Advancement to State-of-the-Art
G. Justification and Value to ASHRAE
H. Objective
I. Scope
J. Deliverables/Where Results will be Published
K. Level of Effort
Project Duration in Months
Professional-Months: Principal
Investigator
Professional-Months: Total
Estimated $ Value
L. Other Information to Bidders (optional)
M. Proposal Evaluation Criteria & Weighting Factors
N. References
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
TC 3.1
Responsible TC/TG:
For
Against
Abstaining
Absent or not returning Ballot
Total Voting Members
Work Statement Authors:
Debra Kennoy
Barbara Minor
Robert Richard
Scott MacLeod
WS#
Test
Work
Work stat
Improve Accuracy and
Reproducibility of ASTME681 Test Method for
Flammability Limit
Measurement of 2L Flammable
Refrigerants
1717
(To be assigned by MORTS - Same as RTAR #)
Results of this Project will affect the following Handbook Chapters,
Special Publications, etc.:
ASHRAE Fundamentals
(Chapter 19)
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34
Date of Vote:
*
*
*
10
0
0
1
11
**
TC 3.1
TC 3.1
TC 3.1
TC 3.1
34
Proposal Evaluation Subcommittee:
Debra Kennoy
Chair:
Members:
Sean Cunningham
Scott MacLeod
Barbara Minor
Robert Richard
Recommended Bidders (name, address, e-mail, tel. number): **
**
(1) AIST (National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology)
1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, JAPAN
Phone:(609)
799-4449
Kenji Takizawa
[email protected] +81-29-861-9441
(2) NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology)
100 Bureau Dr, Gaithersburg, MD
Gregory Linteris [email protected] 301-975-2283
(3) University of Southern California (Viterbi Sch of Aerospace & Engineering
Engineering)
Los Angeles, CA
Paul Ronney [email protected] 213-740-0490
(4) Chilworth Technology Inc 113 Campus Drive Princeton, NJ
Anand Kenchenpur [email protected] 609-799-4449
(Three qualifiedNJ,
bidders
must be recommended, not including WS authors.)
Princeton,
08540
Phone:(609) 799-4449
Is an extended bidding period needed?
Has an electronic copy been furnished to the MORTS?
Will this project result in a special publication?
Has the Research Liaison reviewed work statement?
* Reasons for negative vote(s) and abstentions
One voter who abstained simply did not feel familiar enough with this topic and issues.
One voter who abstained may bid on the project.
Negative voter felt project budget should be larger.
** Denotes WS author is affiliated with this recommended bidder
Use additional sheet if needed.
Title:
20 JAN 2014
This W/S has been coordinated with TC/TG/SSPC (give vote and date):
MTG : Alternative Low GWP Refrigerants (11 / 0 / 1 / 15) (21JAN2014)
Has RTAR been submitted ?
Strategic Plan
Theme/Goals
YES
2010 - 2015
Goal 8 – Facilitate the use of natural and
low global
low global warming
potential (GWP)
synthetic refrigerants and seek methods
to
to reduce their charge
Project Monitoring Subcommittee:
(If different from Proposal Evaluation Subcommittee)
Chair:
Debra Kennoy
Members:
Sean Cunningham
Scott MacLeod
Barbara Minor
Robert Richard
Ganesan Sundaresan
Potential Co-funders (organization, contact person information):
AHRI (Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Institute)
Princeton, NJ, 08540
Phone:(609) 799-4449
Yes
No
How Long (weeks)
WORK STATEMENT# 1717
SPONSORING TC/TG/MTG/SSPC# & NAME: TC 3.1 Refrigerants and Secondary Coolants
Title: Improve Accuracy and Reproducibility of ASTM-E681 Test Method for Flammability Limit
Measurement of 2L Flammable Refrigerants
Executive Summary:
In response to the industry need for lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants, there has
been a strong effort in their development. In addition to lower GWP, these new refrigerants are
commonly found to be mildly flammable with unstable flames. Their flammability tendencies have
been sufficiently distinct to warrant a new subclassification for flammability – 2L. The current test
method used to determine flammability, ASTM E681, is insufficient to accurately and precisely
determine their flammability. Revisions to the test method are needed to correct this and allow SSPC
34 to properly identify their safety classification for use by the industry.
Applicability to the ASHRAE Research Strategic Plan:
This project supports the ASHRAE Research Strategic Plan 2010 – 2015 for support of research into
new alternative Low Global Warming Potential refrigerants by addressing difficulties experienced in
their flammability assessment and identifying corrections needed in the test approach to result in
proper safety data development and classification for flammability. (See Plan Goal 8).
Plan Goal 8 : Facilitate the use of natural and low global warming potential (GWP) synthetic
refrigerants and seek methods to reduce their charge
Objectives
1 – Effectively incorporate natural and low GWP synthetic refrigerants in Air
Conditioning & Refrigeration (AC&R) equipment.
Technical Challenges
1 – Use of natural refrigerants that are identified as toxic or flammable by regulatory
authorities.
5 – Determination of risks associated with naturally occurring and low GWP
synthetic refrigerants that have properties that make them “less safe” than the
current refrigerants. What changes will need to be made in codes and standards
to allow safe usage of these refrigerants?
Needed Research
9 – Develop basic data to support industry risk assessments to determine what types
of applications can use flammable or toxic refrigerants safely and what system
modifications could be made to improve safety.
Application of Results:
The results of this project will be incorporated into both the ASHRAE Handbook Fundamentals
Chapter 19 and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34; the results will be available through these publications.
The practical benefits are the improvements to flammability testing of 2L flammable refrigerants
which will lead to development of results with higher accuracy and reproducibility.
1
It is intended that this project will be a stand-alone study resulting in clarification and refinement of
the flammability test method needed to properly identify and develop flammability data necessary to
ensure the assignment of the correct safety classification to a refrigerant.
State-of-the-Art (Background):
With ever increasing concerns about climate change, there has been a move to refrigerants that have
significantly reduced contribution to global warming. Many of these low global warming potential
(GWP) refrigerants exhibit mild flammability which is significantly more mild than materials such as
hydrocarbons. To characterize the refrigerants with mild flammability, ASHRAE SSPC 34 has
incorporated the 2L subclassification for flammability into ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34. 2Lclassified refrigerants are identified based on lower flammability limit testing, heat of combustion,
and a burning velocity measurement. 2L refrigerants are considered to be more mildly flammable
than those classified as a 2 for flammability and, additionally, some of these refrigerants result in
flames that are less stable making flammability property measurement more difficult. In particular
when blending one of these mildly flammable refrigerants with ones that are non-flammable it has
shown to be difficult to accurately determine the ratio of the components that form the boundary
between a non-flammable and flammable blend. This ratio is termed the Critical Flammability Ratio
or CFR. For a given CFR of a blend, there was a wide variation in the test results causing difficulty in
classifying the blend in ASHRAE Standard 34 for flammability which would be a safety concern that
impacts Standard 15 and codes.
(from ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2010)
Recent shared technical experience has brought the challenges encountered when testing many of the
new alternative low GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants for flammability (Lower
Flammable Limit- LFL) following ASTM E681, Standard Test Method for Concentration Limits of
Flammability of Chemicals (Vapors and Gases).
ASHRAE is currently funding a research project to assess the flammability of some commercial
refrigerant binaries. The principal investigator for ASHRAE Research Project 1507-TRP (“Binary
2
Refrigerant Flame Boundary Concentrations”) reported concern that the current test approach is
deficient when testing some 2L-type refrigerants. Discussions ensued and early concerns related to
some variables in the test approach, previously thought to be innocuous, point to the idea that
additional attention is necessary when testing mildly flammable refrigerants. These variables may
include, but may not be limited to, the static and dynamic pressure effects of the lid, the vessel size,
electrode configuration, the camera specification, the dynamics of venting, and the flow pattern under
the flame (these flow patterns will effect flame stretch and flame stability (flame extinguishing)).
Due to their flames which are found to have a weak and unstable nature, it has been difficult to
achieve precise reproducibility between laboratories. We suspect that some test details, which have
not been an issue for refrigerants with stronger flammability attributes such as R-152a, must be
studied and addressed in order to improve accuracy and precision for the mildly flammable
refrigerants. With these corrections, ASHRAE SSPC 34 will be able to better assign safety
classifications based on consistent, accurate test results for these new alternative refrigerants.
Advancement to the State-of-the-Art:
The project will identify modifications needed for testing new alternative refrigerants for
flammability following ASTM E681. With the incorporation of these modifications into
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34, applicants will be better suited to submit accurate, precise flammability
data in their submissions for new refrigerants. As a result, the SSPC 34 committee will be in a better
position to accurately assign flammability safety classifications to new refrigerants and to note the
proper LFL in ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34.
Without this test clarification, varying flammability test results have been and will continue to be
reported by test facilities for the same chemical which may result in challenges in the development
and accurate safety classification of new lower GWP refrigerants.
Justification and Value to ASHRAE:
As a consequence of phase-out regulations, the industry is looking to the development of new
refrigerants that are both safe and functional. ASHRAE SSPC 34 assesses the safety of submitted
newly-proposed refrigerants and offers a safety classification following a peer-review process. With
the flammability test challenges posed by some of the new alternative refrigerants, appropriate test
modifications need to be identified, confirmed, and incorporated into the test procedure included in
ASHRAE Standard 34. With this, the proper flammability classification will be assigned to further
ensure safety for both the individual (upon handling and using) and the environment (with the
introduction of new alternative low GWP refrigerants).
Since the modifications would be incorporated into ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34, those interested in
introducing new refrigerants through the ASHRAE Standard 34 process would be compelled to adopt
the modifications.
Objectives:
Select a contractor to perform the following tasks:
1. Develop a complete understanding of the ASTM E681 test method:
3
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
a. A literature search of test reports developed using this approach especially those
referencing materials not considered to be refrigerant-related – this is intended to
identify findings that may have been reported from use in other industries
b. Study and report on the theoretical basis of the test method as currently prescribed
c. Conduct survey or interviews and document findings related to test equipment and
procedure differences with acknowledged refrigerant test facilities currently
performing ASTM E681 especially related to evaluations performed on new
alternative low GWP refrigerants
Test the candidate fluid, identified by the PMS, in a cubic meter vessel to identify an accurate
CFR value following ASTM E918.
Set up test facility, if not already available, to perform ASTM E681 testing following the
instructions found in the Normative Appendix B of ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34 (“Details of
Testing – Flammability”). Confirm the ability to perform accurate testing by assessing the
flammability of known refrigerants and comparing against industry values. Assure
equipment has flexibility to perform under varied conditions identified in the survey
Assess the flammability of some new alternative low GWP refrigerants currently assigned a
2L classification and compare results to reported findings.
a. Suggested refrigerants include but are not limited to R-32, R-1234yf, R1234ze, and
low flammability refrigerant mixtures with the test fluids to be confirmed by the
PMS. The goal is for testing to be performed on a total of 7 pure fluids and blends.
b. Include varying conditions and physical setup and measuring difference in results.
i. Work with PMS members and experienced test facilities interested in this
challenge to help identify parameters of concern for precise findings.
ii. Variables to include, but may not be limited to, the static and dynamic
pressure effects of the lid, the vessel size, electrode configuration, the camera
specification, the dynamics of venting, and the flow pattern under the flame.
The contractor will need to reconfigure their equipment to address these
ideas and determine the impact of the changes on the quality of the test
results.
iii. Test all 7 fluids with at least 3 different test setups, or other identified
conditions, which have been pre-approved by the PMS. It is recognized that
during the project there may be changes to this combination. The total
number of test / set-up combinations is expected to not exceed 25.
iv. Evaluate the critical flammability ratio (CFR) of blends of flammable and
non-flammable refrigerants (with the test fluids to be confirmed by the PMS)
in order to improve reproducibility.
v. Conduct CFD and dynamic modeling of the flame and apparatus to aid in
understanding the problem and in finding solutions.
Show if a technically sound, reproducible flammability limit method for mildly flammable,
less stable refrigerants can be developed to improve the precision and accuracy of the
flammability test results.
Document these findings in a report and prepare / present to the ASHRAE community as
requested.
Scope/Technical Approach:
Task 1: Write a summary report of the theoretical basis of the ASTM E681 test method as currently
prescribed. Also report findings from the literature search with an annotated list of references and a
summary of discussions with those having hands-on experience with ASTM E681 related to the test
equipment configuration and procedure. These reports will show the current state of the art.
4
Task 2: Report on contractor’s test findings using their ASTM E681 flammability test equipment of
refrigerant fluids to be identified by the PMS. This is to consist of both testing performed with strict
adherence to ASTM E681 as currently written and with varying conditions and physical setups to measure
difference in results. Also to be included is CFD and dynamic modeling of the flame and apparatus. From
these findings, the PMS and contractor will identify the necessary next steps. All findings are to be reviewed
by the PMS before moving on to Task 3.
Task 3: Identify approaches that would offer a technically sound, reproducible flammability limit
ASTM E681-09 method for mildly flammable, less stable refrigerants in order to improve the
precision and accuracy (in relation to ASTM E918) of the flammability test results.
Deliverables/Where Results Will Be Published:
Contractor(s) will meet with the Project Monitoring Subcommittee (PMS) to kick-off the
project and review the scope. This may be done via teleconference.
Intermediate reports:
o Quarterly progress and financial reports to the Society’s Manager of Research and
Technical Services (MORTS), to be reviewed by the PMS, specifically on or before
each January 1, April 1, June 10, and October 1 of the contract period.
o Technical reports will be prepared after completion of Task 1 and Task 2 and
submitted to the Research Manager and the PMS.
 At the completion of Task 1 – reports on the current state of art:
a report of the theoretical basis of the ASTM E681 test method as
currently prescribed
a report of the findings from the literature search with an annotated
list of references
a summary of discussions with those having hands-on experience
with ASTM E681 related to the test equipment configuration and
procedure
 At the completion of Task 2 – report on contractor’s test findings
a report on contractor’s test findings using their ASTM E681
flammability test equipment of refrigerant fluids to be identified by
the PMS
o testing performed with strict adherence to ASTM E681 as
currently written : test all 7 fluids with at least 3 different
test setups, or other identified conditions, which have been
pre-approved by the PMS to identify the impact of varying
conditions and physical setups on measurement differences
in results
o include CFD and dynamic modeling of the flame and
apparatus
A final report, in a form approved by the Society, shall be prepared and submitted to the
Society’s MORTS by the end of the contract period covering all theoretical findings,
complete details of all research including supportive modeling, and recommendations for
method improvement from work performed on this project. Unless otherwise specified, six
draft copies of the final report shall be furnished for review by the Project Monitoring
Subcommittee (PMS).
Following approval by the PMS and the TC, final copies of the final report will be furnished
as follows:
5
o Executive Summary suitable for wide distribution to the industry and to the public
o Two bound copies
o One unbound copy, printed on one side only, suitable for reproduction
o Two copies on CD-ROM, one in pdf and one in Microsoft Word
Contractor(s) will prepare one Technical Paper for publication and present the results of
this project in a form suitable for presentation at an ASHRAE Society meeting. The paper(s)
shall conform to the “ASHRAE’s Author’s Manual”.
Contractor will prepare a Project Synopsis.
Contractor may be requested to prepare a Technical Article suitable for publication in the
ASHRAE Journal may be requested by the Society.
Level of Effort:
Total dollars: $195,000
Professional Months:
Principal:
Total:
to be determined
18 months
Duration: 18 months
Task
M1 M2
M3
M4
1
x
x
x
2
x
x
M5
M6
M7
M8
M9
x
x
x
x
x
3
M10 M11 M12 M13 M14 M15 M16 M17 M18
x
report
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
M = Month
Other Information for Bidders (Optional):
Data
The Institution agrees to maintain true and complete books and records, including but not limited to
notebooks, reports, charts, graphs, analyses, computer programs, visual representations etc.,
(collectively, the “Data”), generated in connection with the Services. Society representatives shall
have access to all such Data for examination and review at reasonable times. The Data shall be held
in strict confidence by the Institution and shall not be released to third parties without prior
authorization from the Society, except as provided by GENERAL CONDITION VII,
PUBLICATION. The original Data shall be kept on file by the Institution for a period of two years
6
after receipt of the final payment and upon request the Institution will make a copy available to the
Society upon the Society’s request.
Principal Investigator presence at ASHRAE Conference
The Institution’s Principal Investigator, subject to the Society’s approval, shall, during the period of
performance and after the Final Report has been submitted, report in person to the sponsoring
Technical Committee/Task Group (TC/TG) at the annual and winter meetings, and be available to
answer such questions regarding the research as may arise.
Information regarding the technical paper
The paper shall be submitted first to the ASHRAE MORTS and then to the “ASHRAE Manuscript
Central” website-based manuscript review system in a form and containing such information as
designated by the Society suitable for publication. Papers specified as deliverables should be
submitted as either Research Papers for HVAC&R Research or Technical Paper(s) for ASHRAE
Transactions. Research papers contain generalized results of long-term archival value, whereas
technical papers are appropriate for applied research of shorter-term value, ASHRAE Conference
papers are not acceptable as deliverables from ASHRAE research projects. The paper(s) shall
conform to the instructions posted in “Manuscript Central” for an ASHRAE Transactions Technical
or HVAC&R Research paper. The paper title shall contain the research project number (XXXX-RP)
at the end of the title in parentheses, in this case 1717-RP.
Note: A research or technical paper describing the research project must be submitted after the TC
has approved the Final Report. Research or technical papers may also be prepared before the project’s
completion, if it is desired to disseminate interim results of the project. Contractor shall submit any
interim papers to MORTS and the PMS for review and approval before the papers are submitted to
ASHRAE Manuscript Central for review.
Project Synopsis
A written synopsis totaling approximately 100 words in length and written for a broad technical
audience, which documents 1. Main findings of research project, 2. Why findings are significant, and 3.
How the findings benefit ASHRAE membership and/or society in general shall be submitted to the
Manager of Research and Technical Services by the end of the Agreement term for publication in
ASHRAE Insights.
Proposal Evaluation Criteria:
1. Contractor's understanding of Work Statement as revealed in proposal.
a)
Logistical problems associated
b)
Technical problems associated
15%
2. Quality of methodology proposed for conducting research.
a)
Organization of project
b)
Management plan
20%
3. Contractor's capability in terms of facilities.
a)
Managerial support
b)
Data collection
c)
Technical expertise
25%
4. Qualifications of personnel for this project.
a)
Project team 'well rounded' in terms of qualifications
and experience in related work
b)
Project manager person directly responsible;
20%
7
c)
d)
experience and corporate position
Team members' qualifications and experience
Time commitment of Principal Investigator
5. Student involvement
a)
Extent of student participation on contractor's team
b)
Likelihood that involvement in project will encourage entry
into HVAC&R industry
5%
6. Probability of contractor's research plan meeting the objectives of the Work Statement. 10%
a)
Detailed and logical work plan with major tasks and key milestones
b)
All technical and logistic factors considered
c)
Reasonableness of project schedule
7. Performance of contractor on prior ASHRAE or other projects.
(No penalty for new contractors.)
5%
8. Other _________________________
References:
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2013 (“Designation and Safety Classification of Refrigerants”)
ASTM E681-09 (“Standard Test Method for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals
(Vapors and Gases)”)
ASHRAE Research Project 1507-TRP (“Binary Refrigerant Flame Boundary Concentrations”)
Richard, R. 1998. Refrigerant Flammability Testing in Large Volume Vessels, (ARTI MCLR Final
Report DOE/CE/23810-87), Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology Institute, Arlington,
VA
Authors:
Debra Kennoy
Scott MacLeod
Barbara Minor
Robert Richard
8
[Type text]
1791 Tullie Circle NE • Atlanta, Georgia 30329-2305 • Tel 678.539.1211 • Fax 678.539.2211 • http://www.ashrae.org
Michael R. Vaughn, P.E.
Manager Research & Technical Services
TO:
[email protected]
Debra Kennoy, Chair TC 3.1, [email protected]
Barbara Minor, Research Subcommittee Chair TC 3.1, [email protected]
Mark Spatz, Research Liaison Section 3.0, [email protected]
FROM:
Michael Vaughn, MORTS, [email protected]
DATE:
November 19, 2013
SUBJECT:
Research Topic Acceptance Request (1717-RTAR), “Improve Accuracy and
Reproducibility of ASTM-E681 Test Method for Flammability Limit Measurement of
2L Flammable Refrigerants”
During their fall meeting, the Research Administration Committee (RAC) reviewed the subject
Research Topic Acceptance Request (RTAR) and voted to accept it for further development into a
work statement (WS).
Please address in the work statement the following items with the help of your Research Liaison prior
to submitting the work statement to the Manager of Research and Technical Services for further
consideration by RAC:
1. It is strongly recommended that co-funding for this project be sought from AHRTI and others.
In addition, a separate document providing a response to the above comment must be submitted with
the work statement. The response to this item should explain how the work statement has been
revised to address the comment, or a justification for why the Technical Committee feels a revision is
unnecessary or inappropriate. The work statement and response to this comment must be approved
by the Research Liaison prior to submitting it to RAC.
An RTAR evaluation sheet is attached as additional information and it provides a breakdown of
comments and questions from individual RAC members based on specific review criteria. This should
give you an idea of how your RTAR is being interpreted and understood by others. Some of these
comments may indicate areas of the RTAR and subsequent WS where readers may require additional
information or rewording for clarification.
The first draft of the work statement should be submitted to RAC no later August 15, 2015 or it will be
dropped from display on the Society’s Research Implementation Plan. The next realistic submission
deadline for new work statements is May 15, 2014 for consideration at RAC’s 2014 annual meeting. The
submission deadline after that for work statements is August 15, 2014 for consideration at RAC’s
2014 fall meeting.
Project ID
1717
Project Title
Improve Accuracy and Reproducibility of ASTM-E681 Test Method for Flammability Limit Measurement of 2L Flammable Refrigerants
Sponsoring TC
Cost / Duration
Submission History
Classification: Research or Technology Transfer
RAC 2013 Fall Meeting Review
Check List Criteria
TC 3.1, Refrigerants and Secondary Coolants
$200,000 / 18 Months
RTAR 1st submission
Basic/Applied Research
VOTED NO
Comments & Suggestions
Is there a well-established need? The RTAR should include
some level of literature review that documents the
importance/magnitude of a problem. If not, then the RTAR
should be returned for revision.
7 - Flammability data is needed with the advent of the newer lower GWP refrigerants. This information would help validate the test methods and
accuracy of standard 34. 1- MOT needed that provides reliable results. 4 - 2L refrigerants are coming down the pike; we already have safety conflicts
(Mercedes-Benz?). This is really important for buildings.
Is this appropriate for ASHRAE funding? If not, then the
RTAR should be rejected. Examples of projects that are not
appropriate for ASHRAE funding would include: 1) research
that is more appropriately performed by industry, 2) topics
outside the scope of ASHRAE activities.
4 - I think this absolutely requires co-funding by ARTI to assure that industry values the work.
Is there an adequate description of the approach in order
for RAC to be able to evaluate the appropriateness of the
budget? If not, then the RTAR should be returned for revision.
Is the budget reasonable for the project scope? If not, then
RTAR could be returned for revision or conditionally accepted
with a note that the budget should be revised for the WS.
7
Have the proper administrative procedures been followed?
This includes recording of the TC vote, coordination with other
TCs, proper citing of the Research Strategic Plan, etc. If not,
then the RTAR could be returned for revision or possibly
conditionally accepted based on adequately resolving these
issues.
Decision Options
ACCEPT
7 - Budget seems high. Would think other parties would be interested in co-funding other than AHRTI. 4 - I assume so
4 - as far as I can tell
Initial
Decision
Approval Conditions
7 - Feel there is enough justification for this project to move on to WS phase. 10 - Very well written RTAR. Research topic is complex and needs
careful planning and consideration at WS stage. It also recommended to find co-funding for the project. 4 - ARTI (or equivalent) co-funding as
validation and possibly to strengthen PES and likelihood of acceptability of results.
COND. ACCEPT
RETURN
REJECT
ACCEPT Vote - Topic is ready for development into a work statement (WS).
COND. ACCEPT Vote - Minor Revision Required - RL can approve RTAR for development into WS without going back to RAC once TC satisfies RAC's approval condition(s)
RETURN Vote - Topic is probably acceptable for ASHRAE research, but RTAR is not quite ready.
REJECT Vote - Topic is not acceptable for the ASHRAE Research Program
Research Topic Acceptance Request Cover Sheet
13AUG2013
Date:
(Please Check to Insure the Following Information is in the RTAR )
Title:
Improve Accuracy and Reproducibility of
ASTM-E681 Test Method for Flammability Limit
Measurement of 2L Flammable Refrigerants
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
A. Title
B. Applicability to ASHRAE Research Strategic Plan
C. Application of the Results
D. State-of-the-Art (background)
E. Advancement to State-of-the-Art
F. Justification and Value to ASHRAE
G. Objective
RTAR#
1717
(To be assigned by MORTS)
Results of this Project will affect the following Handbook
Special Publications, etc.:
X
X
H. Estimated Duration
I. References
Responsible
ASHRAE Handbook Fundamentals Chapter 19
ANSI AN/ ASHRAE
ANSI / ASHRAE Standard 34
Date of Vote:
For
Against
Abstaining
Absent or not returning Ballot
9
0
0
1
Total Voting
9
Debra Kennoy
RTAR Lead Author:
Expected Work Statement Lead
Debra Kennoy
Research Classification: (Basic/Applied Research; Advanced
Concepts; or Technology Transfer)
Basic/Applied Research
24 JUN 2013
Co-sponsoring TC/TG/MTG/SSPCs (give vote and date):
not yet finalized
Potential Co-funders (organization):
•
AHRI (possible future consideration)
•
•
Has an electronic copy been furnished to the MORTS?
Has the Research Liaison reviewed the RTAR?
* Reasons for negative vote(s) and abstentions
yes
yes
Yes
x
x
No
Unique Tracking Number Assigned by MORTS _______1717-RTAR_____________________
RESEARCH TOPIC ACCEPTANCE REQUEST (RTAR) FORM
Sponsoring TC/TG/MTG/SSPC/EHC/REF: TC 3.1 Refrigerants and Secondary Coolants
Title:
Improve Accuracy and Reproducibility of ASTM-E681 Test Method for Flammability Limit Measurement of 2L
Flammable Refrigerants
Applicability to ASHRAE Research Strategic Plan:
This project supports the ASHRAE Research Strategic Plan 2010 – 2015 for support of research into new alternative
Low Global Warming Potential refrigerants by addressing difficulties experienced in their flammability assessment
and identifying corrections needed in the test approach to result in proper safety data development and classification
for flammability. (See Plan Goal 8).
Research Classification:
Basic / Applied Research
TC/TG/MTG/SSPC Vote:
TC 3.1 Vote: 9 / 0 / 0 / 1 /10
Reasons for Negative Votes and Abstentions:
(Negative Votes) - none
(Abstentions) - none
Estimated Cost:
Estimated Duration:
$150,000 to $200,000
12 to 18 months
RTAR Lead Author
Expected Work Statement Lead Author
Debra Kennoy, [email protected]
Debra Kennoy, [email protected]
Co-sponsoring TC/TG/MTG/SSPCs and votes:
SSPC 34 - to be approached
SSPC 15 - to be approached
Possible Co-funding Organizations:
AHRI / AHRTI (Xudong Wang, [email protected]) - to be handled by Barbara Minor
Application of Results:
ASHRAE Handbook Fundamentals Chapter 19; ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34
State-of-the-Art (Background):
With ever increasing concerns about climate change, there has been a move to refrigerants that have significantly
reduced contribution to global warming. Many of these low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants exhibit
mild flammability which is significantly more mild than materials such as hydrocarbons. To characterize the
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refrigerants with mild flammability, ASHRAE SSPC 34 has incorporated the 2L subclassification for flammability
into ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34. 2L-classified refrigerants are identified based on lower flammability limit
testing, heat of combustion, and a burning velocity measurement. 2L refrigerants are considered to be more mildly
flammable than those classified as a 2 for flammability and, additionally, some of these refrigerants result in flames
that are less stable making flammability property measurement more difficult. In particular when blending one of
these mildly flammable refrigerants with ones that are non-flammable it has shown to be difficult to accurately
determine the ratio of the components that form the boundary between a non-flammable and flammable blend. This
ration is termed the Critical Flammability Ratio or CFR. For a given CFR of a blend, there was a wide variation in
the test results causing difficulty in classifying the blend in ASHRAE Standard 34 for flammability which would be
a safety concern that impacts Standard 15 and codes.
(from ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2010)
Recent shared technical experience has brought the challenges encountered when testing many of the new
alternative low GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants for flammability (Lower Flammable Limit- LFL)
following ASTM E681, Standard Test Method for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals (Vapors and
Gases).
ASHRAE is currently funding a research project to assess the flammability of some commercial refrigerant binaries.
The principal investigator for ASHRAE Research Project 1507-TRP (“Binary Refrigerant Flame Boundary
Concentrations”) reported concern that the current test approach is deficient when testing some 2L-type refrigerants.
Discussions ensued and early concerns related to some variables in the test approach, previously thought to be
innocuous, point to the idea that additional attention is necessary when testing mildly flammable refrigerants. These
variables may include, but may not be limited to, the static and dynamic pressure effects of the lid, the vessel size,
electrode configuration, the camera specification, the dynamics of venting, and the flow pattern under the flame
(these flow patterns will effect flame stretch and flame stability (flame extinguishing)).
Due to their flames which are found to have a weak and unstable nature, it has been difficult to achieve precise
reproducibility between laboratories. We suspect that some test details, which have not been an issue for
refrigerants with stronger flammability attributes such as R-152a, must be studied and addressed in order to improve
accuracy and precision for the mildly flammable refrigerants. With these corrections, ASHRAE SSPC 34 will be
able to better assign safety classifications based on consistent, accurate test results for these new alternative
refrigerants.
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Advancement to the State-of-the-Art:
The project will identify modifications needed for testing new alternative refrigerants for flammability following
ASTM E681. With the incorporation of these modifications into ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34, applicants will be
better suited to submit accurate, precise flammability data in their submissions for new refrigerants. As a result, the
SSPC 34 committee will be in a better position to accurately assign flammability safety classifications to new
refrigerants and to note the proper LFL in ASHRAE Standard 34.
Justification and Value to ASHRAE:
As a consequence of phase-out regulations, the industry is looking to the development of new refrigerants that are
both safe and functional. ASHRAE SSPC 34 assesses the safety of submitted newly-proposed refrigerants and
offers a safety classification following a peer-review process. With the flammability test challenges posed by some
of the new alternative refrigerants, appropriate test modifications need to be identified, confirmed, and incorporated
into the test procedure included in ASHRAE Standard 34. With this, the proper flammability classification will be
assigned to further ensure safety for both the individual (upon handling and using) and the environment (with the
introduction of new alternative low GWP refrigerants).
Since the modifications would be incorporated into ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34, those interested in introducing
new refrigerants through the ASHRAE Standard 34 process would be compelled to adopt the modifications.
Objectives:
Select a contractor to perform the following tasks:
1. Acquaint themselves with the ASTM E681 test method:
a. A literature search of test reports developed using this approach especially those referencing
materials not considered to be refrigerant-related – this is intended to identify findings that may
have been reported from use in other industries
b. Study and report on the theoretical basis of the test method as currently prescribed
c. Conduct survey or interviews and document findings related to test equipment and procedure
differences with acknowledged refrigerant test facilities currently performing ASTM E681
especially related to evaluations performed on new alternative low GWP refrigerants
2. Test the candidate fluid, identified by the PMS, in a cubic meter vessel to identify an accurate CFR value
following ASTM E918.
3. Set up test facility, if not already available, to perform ASTM E681 testing following the instructions found
in the Normative Appendix B of ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34 (“Details of Testing – Flammability”).
Confirm the ability to perform accurate testing by assessing the flammability of known refrigerants and
comparing against industry values. Assure equipment has flexibility to perform under varied conditions
identified in the survey
4. Assess the flammability of some new alternative low GWP refrigerants currently assigned a 2L
classification and compare results to reported findings.
a. Suggested refrigerants include but are not limited to R-32, R-1234yf, R1234ze, and low
flammability refrigerant mixtures with the test fluids to be confirmed by the PMS.
b. Include varying conditions and physical setup and measuring difference in results.
i. Can work with PMS members and experienced test facilities interested in this challenge
to help identify parameters of concern for precise findings.
ii. Variables may include, but may not be limited to, the static and dynamic pressure effects
of the lid, the vessel size, electrode configuration, the camera specification, the dynamics
of venting, and the flow pattern under the flame. The contractor will need to reconfigure
their equipment to address these ideas and determine the impact of the changes on the
quality of the test results.
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5.
6.
iii. Evaluate the critical flammability ratio (CFR) of blends of flammable and non-flammable
refrigerants (with the test fluids to be confirmed by the PMS) in order to improve
reproducibility.
iv. CFD and dynamic modeling of the flame and apparatus would be instructive in
understanding the problem and in finding solutions.
Show if a technically sound, reproducible flammability limit method for mildly flammable, less stable
refrigerants can be developed to improve the precision and accuracy of the flammability test results.
Document these findings in a report and prepare / present to the ASHRAE community as requested.
Key References:
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34 (“Designation and Safety Classification of Refrigerants”)
ASTM E681 (“Standard Test Method for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals (Vapors and Gases)”)
ASHRAE Research Project 1507-TRP (“Binary Refrigerant Flame Boundary Concentrations”)
Richard, R. 1998. Refrigerant Flammability Testing in Large Volume Vessels, (ARTI MCLR Final Report
DOE/CE/23810-87), Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology Institute, Arlington, VA
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