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Developed Refrigerant Detection System for Highly Flammable Refrigerants (R290) – Achieving Safe and High-Precision Leak Detection in a Standalone System

2025-04-02 | Return

Overview
Senseair, a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM), has developed the "RDS R290" refrigerant detection system compatible with the highly flammable refrigerant R290 (propane).

Amid the rapid transition to alternative refrigerants, particularly in the European market driven by the tightening of PFAS and F-Gas regulations, the "RDS R290" has been developed by designing it as a refrigerant detection solution that balances safety and efficiency while mitigating the flammability risks of R290.

This product incorporates the NDIR (Non-Dispersive Infrared) sensor core "Sunlight R290." It complies with the international standard "IEC 60335-2-40," which defines the safety of HVAC equipment, and achieves high precision in detecting even minor refrigerant leaks.

Additionally, this product features a robust protective housing with waterproof and dustproof performance that meets IP66 and IP67 standards. This ensures stable operation in harsh indoor and outdoor environments, supporting a wide range of applications such as HVAC systems.

Furthermore, this product can operate as a standalone unit and is equipped with flexible connectivity, including digital data transfer via the Modbus protocol and support for analog connections.

The "RDS R290" was developed to address the needs of markets requiring compliance with regulations, such as HVAC manufacturers, enabling streamlined installation and operation, cost reduction, and rapid regulatory compliance. Its mass production will commence in April 2025, positioning the product as a trusted solution in the field of refrigerant detection, meeting diverse market needs.

Product Features

High Levels of Safety and Environmental Resistance
This product adopts the NDIR technology, utilizing LEDs as the light source and photodiodes in the sensor section. The LEDs generate minimal heat during operation, reducing the risk of ignition even in the presence of leaked flammable gases, thereby ensuring a high level of safety. This enables safe measurement of the highly flammable refrigerant R290 (propane, C3H8).

In addition, its design combines high durability and protective performance, meeting the IP66 and IP67 standards. It prevents the ingress of dust and water, ensuring stable operation even in harsh weather conditions and industrial environments.

High Accuracy, Longevity, and Maintenance-Free Operation
Its unique optical path design technology and baseline correction algorithms deliver high performance and a long lifespan. Furthermore, the use of the NDIR technology eliminates the need for regular maintenance, such as sensor replacement. Even in the unlikely event of exposure to high concentrations of gas, the sensor maintains its performance.

- Measurement Range: 0–100% LFL
- Accuracy: ±2.5% LFL
- Operating Temperature: -40 to 70ºC
- Expected Lifespan: Over 15 years in normal environments

Simple and Flexible Connectivity
The product is easy to install with screw-only mounting. It supports digital output via the Modbus protocol and analog linear output, making it compatible with a wide range of system configurations.

Applications
- Package Air Conditioners
- Room Air Conditioners
- Heating and Cooling Equipment
- Showcases
- Chiller Units

Source：https://www.akm.com/