Choosing the right refrigerant is crucial in cooling system design – not just for efficiency and sustainability, but also for safety. More and more manufacturers are turning to natural refrigerants like R290 (propane). While this is an eco-friendly choice, it also raises regulatory questions – especially when it comes to ATEX-compliant components. Here’s what the regulations say and how AiFO Components approaches the issue.

R290 – Green but Highly Flammable

R290 is a natural A3-class refrigerant – highly flammable, low in toxicity. From an environmental and performance perspective, it offers many benefits: zero ozone depletion potential, very low GWP, and excellent thermodynamic properties. However, its flammability demands extra caution.

What do the regulations say? ATEX Directive and Technical Standards

Using A3 refrigerants in cooling systems is subject to EU regulation. The key documents are:

• ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU – defines requirements for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres.
• ISO 5149 and EN 378 standards – define permissible refrigerant limits and required safety levels.

If the charge exceeds 150 g of R290, the system must include electrical components (e.g., fan motors) that meet ATEX requirements – as these could come into contact with flammable gases in the event of a leak.

Is ATEX required for smaller charges?

For systems with less than 150 g of R290, ATEX components are not mandatory. That’s why many manufacturers of compact refrigeration units and monoblocks opt out of ATEX components. But does meeting the minimum mean maximum safety?

Why AiFO Components recommends ATEX-certified motors

At AiFO Components, we go beyond the legal minimum. Our monoblocks are built with hermetically sealed circuits and contain under<150 g of R290 – so we don’t have to use ATEX components. But we choose to anyway. We believe modern design is about more than compliance – it’s about risk prevention and responsibility to the end user.

That’s why we use ATEX-certified EC fan motors:

• Enhanced safety – minimized ignition risk in case of refrigerant leakage.
• Energy efficiency – up to 70% less energy consumption.
• Durability and low maintenance – no brushes, longer lifespan, quieter operation.
• Compliance with future regulations – such as ESPR, EED, and REACH.

Summary

R290 is the future of refrigeration – sustainable, efficient, and natural. But it also comes with responsibility. While legal frameworks allow non-ATEX components for smaller refrigerant volumes, at AiFO Components we choose premium, future-ready solutions: EC motors that are ATEX-certified and ensure maximum safety and performance.

Have questions? Contact our team – we’ll help you choose the right solution.