Sensata Technologies has launched its R290 Pressure + Temperature (P+T) Sensor to support automotive manufacturers adopting R290 propane refrigerant in electrified vehicle thermal management systems. The sensor is intended to address pressure and temperature measurement, leakage control and safe system operation as OEMs evaluate low-GWP and PFAS-free refrigerant strategies.
The sensor combines pressure and temperature measurement in a single solution optimized for R290 applications. Sensata says its leakage-optimized design helps minimize refrigerant loss over the vehicle lifetime, while high-accuracy sensing supports thermal system control and performance.
The R290 P+T Sensor is designed for automotive air conditioning and thermal management systems, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and other electrified platforms using R290. Sensata also highlights robust construction for demanding automotive environments.
According to the company, R290 offers efficiency, system cost and environmental benefits, while its flammability and strict leakage requirements create additional design considerations. Pressure and temperature sensing can support HVAC and heat pump control as well as leakage, safety and regulatory requirements.
“Our customers are navigating a fundamental shift in refrigerant technologies as they work to meet evolving environmental and performance requirements,” said Markus Schwabe, Executive Vice President and President, Automotive, Sensata Technologies. “Sensata’s R290 P+T sensor supports that transition by providing the accurate, reliable sensing needed to help OEMs adopt R290 refrigerant technologies with confidence.”
