Overview of FKT Position Papers

The Forschungsrat Kältetechnik e.V. (FKT) published the position papers 'Significance of the proposed PFAS-regulation for the refrigeration industry',
'Contribution of Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Systems to Climate Protection'  - Improvement of Energy Efficiency Reduction of Greenhouse-related Emissions'
and 'Resource efficiency in refrigeration technology'.

Position paper 'Significance of the proposed PFAS-regulation for the refrigeration industry - Members of the German Refrigeration Research Association, FKT, evaluate the consequences of the PFAS regulation under REACH'
During the members meeting on 29th March 2023 all FKT members stated that they are affected by the proposed regulation since PFAS materials are used in their products and applications. A survey conducted throughout FKT members showed that the impact is related to four main sectors:

1. Construction and coatings of parts used for components which ensure safe and energy efficient function as well as reduction of material consumption and wear.

2. Gasket materials and sealing systems of many types which provide safe operation and allow easy exchange and repair of parts, thus preventing the release of harmful substances that can leak from the system and pollute the environment.

3. Electrotechnical and electronic components (i.e. motors, sensors, switches, cables) needed for drivers and controls of components and systems.

4. Refrigerants that represent the best possible choice for refrigeration and heat pumps systems in particular applications under given circumstances, taking into account the material consumption, energy efficiency, system safety and ecological effect.

Position paper 'Contribution of Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Systems to Climate Protection - Improvement of Energy Efficiency Reduction of Greenhouse-related Emissions'

With the position paper 'Contribution of Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Systems to Climate Protection - Improvement of Energy Efficiency Reduction of Greenhouse-related Emissions' the FKT created the foundation for activities about 'Energy efficiency of refrigerating systems', started by the German refrigeration industry in 2008.

The central meaning of the paper is that it is technically possible to achieve potential energy savings of 40 % up to 2020, if accompanying political measures will be taken.

Position paper 'Resource efficiency in refrigeration technology'

Refrigeration technology can be found in all areas of everyday life - from household refrigerators to air-conditioning systems, from entire cold chains in the food industry to industrial applications.

The Forschungsrat Kältetechnik e.V. considers it to be its social responsibility to economically and carefully use resources thereby ensuring sustainable fulfilment of basic needs such as nutrition, health and quality of life. The Research Council advocates the efficient use of natural resources.

The position paper defines the resources and the saving potential which are relevant for refrigeration technology. Possible target conflicts between energy efficiency and material efficiency are defined.