One of South-East England’s largest fruit growers recently completed the final phase of a multi-year project to expand their cold storage capacity. With carbon reduction a key priority and an eye on evolving GB F-Gas regulation, the grower sought to replace R-134a (GWP 14301) with a lower GWP refrigerant across 12 new controlled atmosphere cold stores, bringing the total to 30.
Selecting a sustainable refrigerant
Castle Commercial Refrigeration, specialists in commercial refrigeration systems, were tasked with identifying a suitable alternative. After evaluating options with Climalife, Castle recommended R-513A
(GWP 631/6291) for its lower GWP and similar energy efficiency.
Benefits of R-513A
- Low GWP: 56% reduction compared to R-134a1
- Excellent capacity and energy efficiency match to R-134a.
- Close performance match to R-134a for retrofit and new systems.
- Zero glide (azeotropic).
- Non-flammable A12
Director Shaun Jupp explained: “We have worked together for many years and maintained a close relationship. The Climalife team provide us with valuable advice on legislative changes and products, including how to use them.”
Equipment and implementation
Castle worked with a leading refrigeration parts manufacturer to specify Bitzer compressors approved
for R-513A.
New Centauro packs, evaporators, and condensers are installed for these new cold rooms. Despite tight deadlines, the team successfully commissioned the systems while the cold store was partially loaded with
fruit, ensuring minimal disruption.
The implementation of 160 kg of R-513A ran smoothly, with no major changes required from previous R-134a practices. The new units delivered expected performance and energy efficiency.
System design and technical support
The system design included Bitzer semi-hermetic
compressors matched to R-513A’s properties, LU-VE
air-cooled condensers sized for UK ambient conditions,
and Danfoss electronic controllers and valves for
precise superheat and pressure regulation. Dixell pack
controllers and the XWEB remote monitoring system
enabled real-time performance tracking and remote
defrost control. Climalife UK provided technical support throughout, including refrigerant charge calculations and compliance with EN 378 safety standards.
A Dixell XWEB remote monitoring system was installed across all stores, enabling real-time tracking of compressor performance, superheat, and subcooling. Remote defrost control and cameras installed in the cold room behind evaporators allow for proactive maintenance, even with limited access.
Results and outlook
Since commissioning in January 2023, the system has delivered reliable temperature control, reduced emissions, and lower operational costs. The grower is now evaluating upgrades to older R-134a cold stores, aiming to meet supermarket sustainability expectations.
1In accordance with Assessment Report 4 (AR4) and European F-Gas III regulations.
2ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) and ISO 817.