On May 23, Frascold and the Department of Industrial Engineering at the University of Padua held a technical seminar titled “Hydrocarbons in the Future of HVAC/R” in Padua. The event gathered over 200 professionals to explore the use of hydrocarbons in refrigeration, air conditioning and heating systems.
The seminar addressed current changes in the HVAC/R sector driven by evolving European regulations, increased use of natural refrigerants, and growing demand for sustainable solutions. Discussions centered on the role of hydrocarbons throughout system design, installation, and maintenance.
Fifteen speakers from industry, academia and technical fields presented on topics such as F-Gas and safety regulations, system performance with hydrocarbon refrigerants, and safe handling procedures. Presentations included a focus on propane in heat pumps, high-performance compressor technologies, and applications at temperatures up to 170°C (338°F).
The event combined theoretical content with practical insights and case studies. Speakers shared hands-on experiences and provided applicable solutions for daily industry challenges, including safety practices and legislative developments.
Organizers highlighted the seminar as both a training opportunity and a networking platform, with strong participation reflecting industry interest in preparing for ongoing transitions in HVAC/R technology.