Natural Refrigerants

Isobutane (R600a) is the hydrocarbon (HC) most frequently found in domestic fridges and freezers, whilst propane (R290) is common in commercial heat pump, air-conditioning, refrigeration, and freezer applications.

In addition to their environmental benefits, hydrocarbons are a cost-saving option for heating/cooling and also for freezing. A common replacement for fluorocarbons (now lacking green credentials), HCs substitutes are compatible with oils and components found in many existing systems. They can be purchased more cheaply and also offer superior energy efficiency, reflected in more-affordable running costs.

Secop has been developing and promoting highly efficient compressors that use hydrocarbons (R290 and R600a) for more than 25 years. In 1993 Danfoss Compressors (Secop) introduced compressors for R600a and in 1999 compressors for R290.

The introduction of hydrocarbons R600a and R290 helps to protect the environment and updates commercial refrigeration systems with the latest generation of a highly efficient compressor technology.

Whitepaper

Secop Energy-optimized Propane Compressors

Our successful R290 compressor range has been updated with continuous releases of higher efficiency models for both LBP and MBP applications, specifically designed for merchandisers, food service, food retail, medical refrigerators, and ultra-low temperature freezers.

These NLE, SCE, and KLF compressors are tailored for commercial use and can be used to replace products made for high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants such as R404A and R134a.

New 50/60 Hz compressor variants are designed to support regions that experience harsh and challenging environments and in which voltage fluctuations as well as high ambient temperatures need to be taken intoaccount, and when the ability to start under low voltage conditions without stalling is important.

In-Depth Article and Educational Movie

Energy-optimized Propane Compressors and Condensing Units

  • Energy-Optimized Propane Compressors

    Energy-Optimized Propane Compressors

    | Literature | Quick References

    Download (8.05 MB)
  • Energy-Optimized Propane Condensing Units

    Energy-Optimized Propane Condensing Units

    | Literature | Quick References

    Download (3.41 MB)

Common Questions About Natural Refrigerants

What does Secop mean by “natural refrigerants”?

At Secop, natural refrigerants primarily refer to the hydrocarbons isobutane (R600a) and propane (R290). These replace fluorinated refrigerants (e.g., HFCs) and are considered more environmentally friendly because they have no ozone-depleting potential and a significantly lower global warming impact.

Why does Secop use hydrocarbons such as R600a and R290?

Because they offer several advantages: they are compatible with many existing components and oils, they are more cost-effective to purchase, and they enable higher energy efficiency and therefore lower operating costs.

Since when has Secop been using this technology?

Secop (formerly Danfoss Compressors) introduced its first compressors for R600a in 1993 and for R290 in 1999. This gives the company more than 25 years of experience with these natural refrigerants.

For which applications are natural refrigerants used at Secop?

Secop uses natural refrigerants primarily in commercial refrigeration and freezing applications (light commercial – LBP/MBP), in food service and retail equipment, as well as in medical cooling and ultra-low-temperature applications.

What technical advantages do Secop compressors using R290/R600a offer?

Key advantages include: high energy efficiency (e.g., savings of up to 40% compared to conventional systems), the ability to use lower refrigerant charges, improved environmental performance (no ozone depletion, very low GWP), and low-leakage system designs.

How do natural refrigerants and Secop’s related technologies contribute to sustainability?

By using natural refrigerants with low global warming potential, by providing energy-efficient compressors, and by helping reduce the overall CO₂ footprint, Secop’s solutions make a direct contribution to sustainable refrigeration and climate protection.

Customize your Cookie Preferences

We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. Click "Manage preferences" if you would like to read more about our cookies and adjust your preferences. By clicking "Accept all", you agree to the use of all cookies as described in our Privacy Policy. Privacy Policy