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Low-GWP Cooling Systems, Compliant with Global Refrigerant Regulations

Committing to Lowering GWPs Long Before Regulatory Mandates

As the urgency for environmental sustainability grows, the refrigeration industry faces a critical juncture, compelled to adopt eco-friendly alternatives amid tightening regulations. Aspen Systems emerges as a leader in sustainable cooling solutions, leveraging its extensive experience and innovation in cooling systems, including efficient heat exchangers, advanced compressor development, and precise cooling control. With a keen eye on the global shift towards low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, particularly within the European Union, Aspen has long informed its clientele about impending changes. Propane, also known as R290, emerges as a promising refrigerant with significantly lower GWP, requiring only around half the mass of traditional refrigerants like R134a for the same cooling capacity. However, strict regulations govern the shipment of propane-based systems by air, limiting systems to containing 100g of propane. Aspen’s liquid chiller modules are air-qualified, easing logistics, while its compressors are UL-rated for propane use, facilitating the transition for its customers. Beyond refrigerant choices, Aspen remains committed to regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship, proactively meeting the highest standards. With a focus on sustainability and expertise in developing cooling systems using low GWP refrigerants, Aspen offers tailored solutions to meet evolving needs, fostering a greener future for all.

Introducing Aspen's G-Series Liquid Chiller Modules

Aspen’s compact, low-voltage G-Series Liquid Chiller Modules are engineered to meet today’s stringent refrigerant regulations without compromising on performance. Optimized for low-GWP refrigerants like R290, these compact chillers ensure compliance with the AIM Act, EU F-Gas, Montreal Protocol, and EPA mandates while delivering powerful, reliable cooling.

Why Choose the G-Series?

  • Compact & Efficient: Small footprint designs ideal for space and power-contrained applications.
  • Eco-Friendly: Supports low-GWP refrigerants, reducing environmental impact.
  • Fully Compliant: Utilizing less than 100g of refrigerant, our low-GWP chillers are Air-shippable and UL-rated to meet global logistics and safety standards.

From 24 VDC chillers for portable use to high-capacity systems for demanding applications, the G-Series offers tailored solutions for various industries, including EV, MedTech, electronics cooling, military applications, and more.

EPA Refrigerant Regulations

The EPA’s regulations under the AIM Act accelerate the phasedown of high-GWP hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and introduce sector-specific restrictions on refrigerants. Starting in 2025, the manufacture, import, and sale of certain refrigeration products and systems using high-GWP HFCs will be prohibited. Compliance requires transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives like propane (R290), which poses challenges for logistics and system design. These changes directly impact Aspen Systems’ customers, who face the dual burden of adhering to these rules and avoiding supply chain disruptions.

Aspen’s compact cooling systems are engineered to ensure full compliance with these evolving regulations. Our UL-rated and air-shippable liquid chiller modules not only support the shift to low-GWP refrigerants but also provide a streamlined path to regulatory alignment, mitigating risks such as non-compliance penalties or market inaccessibility.

EU F-Gas Regulation

The updated F-gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573, effective March 11, 2024, strengthens measures to meet the EU’s 2030 and 2050 climate goals. It includes steeper HFC quota reductions, aiming for a full phase-out by 2050, stricter emission controls, and enhanced enforcement via digital monitoring. Starting in 2025, HFC production rights will drop from 60% of 2011-2013 levels to 15% by 2036. The regulation also requires annual quotas for importers and producers, with compliance declarations mandatory for HFC-containing equipment.

AIM Act

The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, enacted on December 27, 2020, empowers the EPA to regulate hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by phasing down their production and consumption, managing HFCs and their substitutes, and promoting next-generation technologies. HFCs, potent greenhouse gases used in various applications, have been increasing in use due to the global phaseout of ozone-depleting substances. Alternatives with lower global warming potentials (GWPs) are available or being developed.

The Inflation Reduction Act provides significant funding for the AIM Act’s implementation, including $38.5 million for compliance and grants. Recently, the EPA announced $15 million in grants for projects focused on HFC reclaim and destruction technologies.