Refrigerant
Test Benches for the Refrigerants R744, R290, R134a/R1234yf
Development and Validation of Electric Refrigerant Valves
Our Service Portfolio
For the validation of new refrigerants, comprehensive testing regarding durability, efficiency, and performance is needed even before the actual design and process validation tests can be executed. This is especially true for electric refrigerant compressors. Flexible testing procedures that guarantee high quality standards are a must. IPEengineering’s expertise in handling such complex test setups is unrivaled in the industry.
Since there are usually no vehicles available at this early stage, we build the prototypes geodesically. Our IPEsim emulates drivetrain and battery while conditioned air is applied to the indoor evaporators. The air path for the condenser simulates temperature and driving speed to allow for a caloric evaluation of the system. This helps test different interconnections and components as well as develop operating strategies – steps that are especially important when testing new refrigerants.
In our laboratory, we test climate components and systems with a wide variety of refrigerants, such as R134a, R1234yf, and R744. Our test benches are also perfect for refrigerant mixtures. We are currently expanding our portfolio to include the refrigerant R290 (propane). Upon request, customized refrigerants and new developments can be considered as well.
For the preliminary development of refrigerant circuits, the advantages of a test bench setup can be combined with the flexibility of vehicle measurements. We install customer-specific vehicle subsystems within a car body and equip them with comprehensive measurement technology. This allows you to experience system characteristics of new setups during measurement within the passenger compartment and conduct tests in the climate wind tunnel, on test tracks, or during stationary operation.
The precise analysis of specific refrigerant parameters is an essential part of our work. We support our customers in designing key components, such as compressor, expansion valve, or heat exchanger, and help them develop customized solutions by optimizing the material selection or the assembly.
In order to develop new refrigerants, you need vehicle-independent test specifications for test bench testing. The more precise these specifications are, the better the climate systems can be adjusted to the new refrigerants.
Testing and Analyzing Electric Refrigerant Compressors
By combining state-of-the-art test technology with our many years of experience, we are able to offer specialized tests and analyses for electric refrigerant compressors in vehicle air-conditioning systems.
- Performance and durability tests: ensuring performance and durability of the compressors
- Efficiency studies: monitoring power consumption and cooling capacity
- Troubleshooting: identifying and evaluating potential weaknesses
- Acoustic measurements (NVH): analyzing noise emission and vibrations to reduce disturbances
- Comprehensive test reports: detailed documentation of all test results
Developing and Safeguarding Circuits with alternative Refrigerants
For years, the automotive industry has been faced with the task of finding a replacement for the refrigerant R134a, which is no longer permitted in the EU. For this purpose, refrigerant circuits with alternative refrigerants must be developed and secured. In order to master these challenges, we accompany and support our customers at all times in a committed and professional manner. With our expertise in measuring, analysing and evaluating the latest HVAC technologies, we contribute to the development process and ensure that our climate will soon be even more protected with the next generation refrigerant.
Personal Consultation
Do you have any questions about a test bench for refrigerants or a special application? Get in touch with our experts!
Specification Development Support
When implementing new refrigerants in thermal management systems, the existing test specifications usually have to be adjusted. These measurement matrices need to be applicable on test benches for all kinds of vehicles and system architectures. Their precision is vital for the level of development that can be reached prior to vehicle testing.
Find the right solution!
Which project may we realize for you?
Make an appointment to talk to our experts. This is easy to do by email or by phone.
