Trans-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene for use in chiller applications

#The present invention relates to compositions having utility in numerous applications, including chiller applications, and to methods and systems utilizing such compositions. In particular, the present invention is directed to methods of using refrigerant compositions containing trans-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene (1233zd(E)) in chiller applications.

#Fluorocarbon-based fluids are widely used in refrigeration, heat pump, air conditioning, and chiller applications. Fluorocarbons are used to transfer heat from an undesired location to a location where the heat is wanted. A purpose of refrigeration or air conditioning systems is to remove energy from a cool region. A purpose of a heat pump is to add energy to a hot region.

#Physical properties of the refrigerant such as density, vapor pressure, and heat of vaporization help to determine what application is best for the refrigerant. Safety and environmental impacts of the refrigerant should also be considered. For example, the flammability, ozone depletion potential (ODP), and global warming potential (GWP) should be considered.

#It was discovered that 1233zd(E) (trans1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene) is particularly useful as a refrigerant in chiller applications. Due to the extremely short atmospheric lifetime of the 1233zd(E), the ozone depletion potential and the global warming potential of these molecules is significantly smaller than that of currently used refrigerant R-123. Further it was discovered that of the low ODP molecules currently available, 1233zd(E) has the highest COP of all the compounds that are not scheduled for phase-out in the Montreal Protocol.

#It was discovered that the refrigerant 1233zd(E) performed better than the cis-isomer 1233zd(Z) in chiller applications. 1233zd(E) has a much higher capacity therefore a smaller system could be used to deliver the same capacity as either a 1233zd(Z) or R123 systems. The COP of 1233zd(E) is slightly lower than 1233zd(Z) and on par with R123.

#The composition useful in the present invention comprises trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene (HCFC-1233zd(E)). Although it is contemplated that the compositions of the present invention may include 1233zd(E) in widely ranging amounts, generally the refrigerant compositions of the present invention comprise 1233zd(E), in an amount that is at least about 50% by weight, and more particularly at least about 70% by weight, of the total composition. In many embodiments, the heat transfer compositions of the present invention comprise 100% 1233zd(E).