UL Solutions Opens Refrigerant Leak Testing Facility in China to Support HVACR Compliance

UL Solutions has introduced new testing capabilities at its Zhongshan laboratory in China to evaluate low-global-warming-potential (LGWP) refrigerants. The initiative aims to help heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) manufacturers comply with evolving regulations while transitioning to more sustainable refrigerants.

As efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensify, the HVACR industry has shifted toward refrigerants with lower environmental impact. However, many LGWP refrigerants, including A2L and A3 classifications, present increased flammability risks, necessitating improved leak-detection systems.

“Manufacturers in Greater China and the Asia Pacific region represent a significant portion of manufacturers supplying heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration products to the North American market and other markets that adopt UL Standards,” said Karine Johnfroe, vice president and general manager of the Built Environment group at UL Solutions. “We are pleased to extend UL Solutions’ deep expertise in appliance, fire and life-safety technologies to our Zhongshan, China, laboratory. This investment provides a holistic solution for manufacturers to demonstrate product performance and meet requirements for refrigerant leak detection in pursuit of environmental sustainability goals.”

UL Solutions' new capabilities in Zhongshan focus on testing refrigerant sensors and leak-detection systems based on UL Standards for various HVACR products, including electrical heat pumps, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, commercial refrigeration units, and ice makers. The facility can assess sensor performance for UL component recognition and certification while also evaluating refrigerant leak-detection system placement and configuration. Additionally, manufacturers can use test results to support product development.

With extensive expertise in fire protection and safety science, UL Solutions aims to assist manufacturers in addressing fire risks associated with flammable refrigerants, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and advancing sustainable technologies.