Evaluation of a Micro-Cascade System for Supermarket Refrigeration using Low GWP Refrigerants

For this project, a distributed micro-cascade refrigeration system is proposed as an alternative to current-centralized refrigeration systems used in supermarket applications. This cascade system is configured to use low–global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants R-1234ze(E) or R-471A (GWP of

Low GWP refrigerants have drawn increasing attention as an alternative to HFC refrigerants that are regulated as a leading cause of global warming in the HVAC&R industry. The heat exchanger is a common yet extremely critical component of such systems, and heavily influences the overall performance. Consequently, a high efficient heat exchanger with utilization of low GWP refrigerants not only reduces the direct emissions caused by refrigerant losses but also reduces indirect emissions by particularly efficient system technology. Oak Ridge National Laboratory propose an activity to develop heat exchanger technology for refrigerants (

Project Impact

This effort will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the supermarket sector by ~74%, equal to 46.4 million tons of CO2 annually, surpassing EERE's 2030 goal of 50-52%. This project will achieve up to 15% energy savings, notably around 6.75 TWh/year in the U.S. supermarket segment, making crucial steps toward decarbonization. Highly efficient, smaller, distributed systems could expedite deployment and broaden access, better reaching disadvantaged communities.