Compressed air drying is as much a part of compressed air generation as a lid on a pot. Virtually every compressed air station is equipped with refrigeration dryers, because hardly any application can do without these devices, which ensure dry compressed air. The F-Gas Regulation EU 517/2014 has been in force since 2015. Its aim is to minimize emissions of partially fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) in order to counteract global warming. The effects of the regulation are now being felt. This is because it also affects operators of compressed air stations, as F-gases are used as refrigerants in refrigeration dryers. This means that anyone who has their existing refrigeration dryers serviced or repaired or who purchases a new refrigeration dryer must comply with the requirements of the directive.

Existing refrigerants are gradually being withdrawn from the market. This is being achieved through specific bans, but also through the targeted shortage of refrigerants with a high global warming potential (GWP). In terms of bans, the spotlight is on the refrigerant R 404A, which has been in common use to date. From next year, it will be prohibited to place new R-404A refrigerant dryers on the market. Only used refrigerant may be used to repair larger systems, and from 2030 it will also be completely banned in servicing. The effect is noticeable: R 404A is now difficult to obtain in large quantities and when it is, it is very expensive. However, the issue is becoming even more explosive.

Attention, shortage

In addition, the supply of refrigerants with a high global warming potential, such as the frequently used R 407C and R 410A, is being systematically reduced. Quotas, which are allocated to refrigerant manufacturers and importers on a binding basis and which limit their sales volumes, are used for this purpose. The following applies to the use of the quota: the lower the global warming potential of the refrigerants sold, the higher the permitted sales volume. Manufacturers are therefore in the process of switching their product range to refrigerants with the lowest possible global warming potentials. This process will intensify significantly as the original quota is gradually being reduced to just 21 percent. The higher their global warming potential, the faster the availability of refrigerants is likely to deteriorate. In future, many of today's refrigerants will no longer be available for repairs or will only be available at high prices. It therefore makes sense for operators to get an overview of the refrigerants they currently use and seek advice on alternatives. Stockpiling refrigerants is usually not an option for operators. Their purchase requires mandatory certification of operation and personnel. For all refrigeration dryers that are in use, it makes sense to prevent leaks in the refrigeration circuit in good time by having them serviced by appropriately certified personnel. This applies in particular to older systems. Operators must also comply with the new regulations on mandatory leak tests.