Recovery, recirculation and reuse of hot fluids

Abstract

A method of thermal fluid recovery, recirculation, and reuse includes recovering a thermal fluid comprising at least one refrigerant compound from at least one thermal management device as a recovered thermal fluid. The method further includes recirculating the recovery thermal fluid. Recycling includes testing the composition and impurity level of the recovered thermal fluid. Recycling further includes purifying the recovered thermal fluid as needed to reduce impurity levels, and adjusting the composition of the recovered thermal fluid as needed to provide a recycled thermal fluid that meets predetermined purity and composition criteria of the predetermined thermal fluid type. Recycling further includes verifying that the recycled thermal fluid has an organic purity of greater than 98% by weight. The method further includes recycling the thermal fluid. Recycling includes charging a recirculated thermal fluid into the thermal management device. The method is performed on site.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 541,524, filed September 29, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 564,035, filed March 12, 2024, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for the recovery, recycling, and reuse of heat fluids. More particularly, this disclosure relates to systems and methods for the on-site recovery, recycling, and reuse of single, azeotropic, near-azeotropic, or non-azeotropic waste heat fluids. Background Technology

[0003] Thermal fluid or refrigerant regeneration has long attracted significant attention due to regulatory requirements and a growing emphasis on circularity, emissions reduction, and resource efficiency. Efficient and effective regeneration methods benefit both the environment and the global economy. In fact, without such regeneration processes, thermal fluids would have to be destroyed or otherwise treated (such as through thermal oxidation), which is highly energy-intensive and results in the loss of products from the circular economy.

[0004] A common area for hot fluid recirculation in the field is automotive refrigerants. Due to environmental pressures, the current main automotive refrigerants, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (CF3-CH2F; HFC-134a) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), are being phased out in favor of refrigerants with lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) of <150. Hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (CF3-CF=CH2; HFO-1234yf) meets the low GWP requirement, but it has a slightly different boiling point compared to the existing refrigerant (HFC-134a). According to REFRPROP version 10.0, HFC-134a has a boiling point of -26.074°C, and HFO-1234yf has a boiling point of -29.485°C.

[0005] Historically, on-site refrigerant recovery has been limited to single-compound fluids. Used or discarded automotive refrigerant is typically collected from vehicles at auto repair shops or dealerships and transported off-site for regeneration. Regeneration requires transporting used or discarded refrigerant to a regeneration site for further processing, including purification, removal of non-absorbable gases (NAG), residual oil, moisture, and composition adjustment of the blend.

[0006] During the regeneration process, used or discarded refrigerant is typically combined in mixing tanks at the regeneration site. To obtain pure components, in addition to techniques such as fractionation or extractive distillation, large distillation systems including at least one distillation column may be required. All of these techniques can be energy-intensive, labor-intensive, and time-consuming. Furthermore, refrigerant regeneration may inadvertently increase CO2 lifetime emissions due to fugitive process emissions or transport emissions.

[0007] Therefore, on-site recycling offers numerous advantages when used in automotive and stationary systems compared to off-site recycling. SAE has provided and continues to provide guidance on how to ensure adequate quality of recycled, recirculated refrigerant used for refilling in automotive systems through SAE J standards. SAE has become crucial to the circular economy due to the development of recycling, recirculation, and refill (RRR) equipment that eliminates the need to collect refrigerant and transport it to off-site locations for processing. RRR machines are widely used and accepted as best practice in the automotive industry.

[0008] Recently, there have been instances of recovered, recirculated refrigerants that meet SAE J standard quality but contain polymer contaminants due to excessive air and / or peroxide contaminants. This invention addresses certain issues related to in-field RRR of hot fluids by employing an additive that increases fluid stability and further enables the fluid to be used with conventional and improved in-field RRR equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In one example embodiment, a method for recovering, recirculating, and reusing a heat fluid includes recovering a heat fluid containing at least one refrigerant compound as a recovered heat fluid from at least one thermal management device. Examples of thermal management devices include, but are not limited to, automotive or stationary heat pump systems, automotive or stationary refrigeration systems, and automotive or stationary air conditioning systems. In one embodiment, the method is preferably used in conjunction with an automotive heat pump or automotive air conditioning system.

[0010] The method also includes recirculating the recovered heat fluid. Recirculation includes testing the composition and impurity levels of the recovered heat fluid. Recirculation also includes purifying the recovered heat fluid as needed to reduce impurity levels, and adjusting the composition of the recovered heat fluid as needed to provide a recirculated heat fluid that meets predetermined purity and composition criteria for a predetermined heat fluid type. Recirculation also includes verifying that the recirculated heat fluid has an organic purity greater than about 95 wt%, about 96 wt%, about 97 wt%, about 98 wt%, about 99 wt%, or about 99.5 wt%. The method also includes reusing the heat fluid. Reuse includes filling the thermal management device with the recirculated heat fluid. The method is performed in the field.

[0011] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taking into account the accompanying drawings which illustrate the principles of this disclosure by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 A recycling, regeneration, and reuse system according to an embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0013] Where possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the accompanying drawings to denote the same parts. Detailed Implementation

[0014] In an exemplary implementation, an integrated commercial and engineering process effectively and efficiently recovers used or discarded thermal fluids and recycles and reuses them on-site. The reuse can be used for purposes similar to or different from those prior to recycling.

[0015] As used herein, “refrigerant compound” means any fluorocarbon (FC), hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), hydrofluoroolefin (HFO), chlorofluoroolefin (CFO), hydrochlorofluoroolefin (HCFO), hydrocarbon (HC), or carbon dioxide (R-744) that can be used alone or in blends with other refrigerant compounds as a heat fluid.

[0016] As used herein, a “near-azeotropic” or “quasi-azeotropic” composition refers to a combination of two or more refrigerant compounds that behaves similarly to an azeotropic composition (i.e., exhibiting constant boiling characteristics or a tendency not to fractionate upon boiling or evaporation). Therefore, during boiling or evaporation, the vapor and liquid compositions, if fundamentally altered, change only to a minimal or negligible degree. Conversely, the vapor and liquid compositions of non-azeotropic compositions change substantially during boiling or evaporation. As used herein, a “near-azeotropic” composition refers to a composition exhibiting near-azeotropic behavior.

[0017] As used herein, the term "near-azeotropic behavior" refers to behavior that exhibits both dew point pressure and bubble point pressure with almost no pressure difference. In some embodiments, the difference between the dew point pressure and the bubble point pressure at a given temperature is 10% or less, alternatively 9% or less, alternatively 8% or less, alternatively 7% or less, alternatively 6% or less, alternatively 5% or less, alternatively 4% or less, alternatively 3% or less, alternatively 2% or less, alternatively 1% or less, or alternatively any value, range, or subrange thereof.

[0018] As used in this article, "thermal fluid" refers to any fluid used for heat transfer in a closed-loop system.

[0019] As used herein, “used heat fluid” means a heat fluid composition having an organic purity of at least about 95% by weight, preferably at least about 99% by weight, or most preferably at least about 99.5% by weight, and having been used as a heat fluid.

[0020] As used herein, “waste heat fluid” refers to a heat fluid composition having an organic purity of less than about 95% by weight, preferably less than about 99% by weight, most preferably less than about 99.5% by weight, and which has been used as a heat fluid.

[0021] As used herein, “recovery” refers to the process of collecting or extracting used or discarded hot fluid from a thermal management device, such as a stationary or automotive heat pump system, a stationary or automotive refrigeration system, or a stationary or automotive air conditioning system, preferably an automotive heat pump system or an automotive air conditioning system.

[0022] As used herein, “recovered heat fluid” means used or discarded heat fluid that is discharged from or otherwise removed from a thermal management device, such as, for example, a stationary or automotive heat pump system, a stationary or automotive refrigeration system, or a stationary or automotive air conditioning system, preferably an automotive heat pump system or an automotive air conditioning system.

[0023] As used in this article, “recirculation” refers to the process of converting recovered heat fluid into a reusable heat fluid.

[0024] As used herein, “recycled heat fluid” means a recycled heat fluid composition (whether recycled as is or after purification or other processing) having an organic purity of at least about 95% by weight, preferably at least about 99% by weight, most preferably at least about 99.5% by weight, and meeting the usual specifications for commercial use or sale as a heat fluid.

[0025] As used herein, “reuse” refers to the process of supplying recirculated heat fluid to a thermal management device, such as a stationary or automotive heat pump system, a stationary or automotive refrigeration system, or a stationary or automotive air conditioning system, preferably an automotive heat pump system or an automotive air conditioning system.

[0026] As used herein, “recycled heat fluid” refers to a recirculated heat product that has been returned as a heat fluid for use in a thermal management device, such as a stationary or automotive heat pump system, a stationary or automotive refrigeration system, or a stationary or automotive air conditioning system, preferably an automotive heat pump system or an automotive air conditioning system.

[0027] As used in this article, “on-site” refers to a single site that eliminates the need for transport vehicles between recycling, reuse, and recycling.

[0028] As used herein, “organic purity” refers to the degree to which a fluid or fluid composition is free from contaminants such as oil and inorganic materials such as water, acid, non-absorbable gases (NAG), particles / solids, etc.

[0029] As used herein, “purification” and other forms of the term (such as “purified” or “refined”) refer to the treatment of fluids in a system (such as an RRR machine) to separate oil, reduce water content and reduce acidity, wherein the treatment process may optionally involve vapor recovery.

[0030] In some embodiments, as used herein, “used heat fluid,” “waste heat fluid,” “recycled heat fluid,” and / or “recirculated heat fluid” refer to heat fluid compositions as defined above, and optionally also include at least one stabilizer, specifically when the heat fluid composition contains an HFO refrigerant compound (such as R-1234yf). In some embodiments, the stabilizer includes at least one inhibitor compound that inhibits (if not eliminates) the interaction of vinyl fluoride with another compound to form dimers, oligomers, homopolymers, or polymers. In some embodiments, the at least one inhibitor is selected from hydrocarbons such as cyclic monoterpenes (e.g., limonene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, and terpinene); lipophilic organic compounds such as tocopherols (e.g., α-tocopherol) or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT); phenols or aromatic organic compounds having at least one chemical moiety -C6H4(OH) (e.g., benzene-1,4-diol, 4-methoxyphenol); and mixtures thereof. Specific examples of inhibitory compounds may include at least one member selected from the following: limonene (especially D-limonene), α-terpinene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), 4-methoxyphenol, benzene-1,4-diol, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the thermal fluid composition of any of the “used thermal fluid,” “waste thermal fluid,” “recycled thermal fluid,” and / or “recirculated thermal fluid” as defined above comprises R-1234yf and at least one stabilizer comprising at least one inhibitor selected from the following: hydrocarbons including at least a cyclic monoterpene; lipophilic organic compounds; or phenols, aromatic organic compounds having at least one chemical moiety -C6H4(OH), and more specifically selected from limonene (especially D-limonene), α-terpinene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), 4-methoxyphenol, benzene-1,4-diol, and mixtures thereof.

[0031] In another embodiment, the stabilizer comprises an acid scavenger, such as, but not limited to, hindered amines and epoxy compounds (such as butylene oxide). In one embodiment, the hot fluid composition, each of the above-defined “used hot fluid,” “waste hot fluid,” “recycled hot fluid,” and / or “recirculated hot fluid,” comprises at least one refrigerant compound (such as an HFO refrigerant compound) and at least one stabilizer, which includes at least one acid scavenger, such as, but not limited to, hindered amines and epoxy compounds (such as butylene oxide).

[0032] This article provides further details on optional stabilizers.

[0033] Figure 1 A recovery, recirculation, and reuse system for on-site recovery, recirculation, and reuse of heat fluid from a thermal management device 10 is illustrated. Examples of the thermal management device 10 include, but are not limited to, automotive or stationary heat pump systems, automotive or stationary refrigeration systems, and automotive or stationary air conditioning systems. In one embodiment, the thermal management device 10 is preferably an automotive heat pump system or an automotive air conditioning system.

[0034] In one implementation scheme Figure 1 The system can be a recovery, recirculation, and refill (RRR) machine. A hot fluid 12 containing at least one refrigerant compound is recovered from the thermal management unit 10. The composition and purity of the recovered hot fluid 12 can then be tested 14. For example, in one embodiment, the recovered hot fluid 12 may optionally be transported to a refrigerant identifier 14, which may be integrated into the system (e.g., an RRR machine) or may be a stand-alone device preferably located in the field.

[0035] If the composition of the recovered heat fluid 12 is determined to be of the first heat fluid type and to have sufficient purity, it is permitted to be recycled. In one embodiment, during transport, the recirculated fluid is optionally transported via an oil separator (not shown) that separates oil to a level of <500 ppm. The fluid may also optionally be transported via a dryer (not shown) such that the resulting moisture content is <50 ppm. The final recirculated fluid 18 is then transported to a first recirculated fluid tank 16.

[0036] If it is determined that the composition of the recovered heat fluid 12 is of the first heat fluid type and its purity is insufficient, it is transported to the first recovery fluid tank 20 as recovered first heat fluid 22. The recovered first heat fluid 22 can be regenerated. In one embodiment, the recovered first heat fluid 22 can be circulated through the system (e.g., an RRR machine) until the desired purity is achieved. For example, the recovered first heat fluid 22 in the first recovery fluid tank 20 can be purified 24 and retested 26 to obtain sufficient purity, thereby being returned to the first recovery fluid tank 20 as recovered first heat fluid 22 or to the first recirculation fluid tank 16 as first recirculation heat fluid 18. Those skilled in the art will understand that separate tanks 20 and 16, respectively, for the recovered first heat fluid 22 and the first recirculation heat fluid 18, are optional, as purification and retesting (i.e., regeneration) can be performed in a single tank or device 14.

[0037] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the recovered first thermal fluid 22 may be transported off-site for regeneration.

[0038] If the first type of heat fluid is a blend of more than one refrigerant compound, the composition of the heat fluid can be adjusted to meet the heat fluid type composition by adding one or more refrigerant compounds at any point. The first recirculated heat fluid 18 in the first recirculated fluid tank 16 can be further tested, purified, or adjusted before becoming the first reused heat fluid 30 supplied to the thermal management device 32. The thermal management device 32 may be the same as or different from the thermal management device 10.

[0039] If it is determined that the composition of the recovered heat fluid 12 is a second heat fluid type and has sufficient purity, it is transported as a second recirculated heat fluid 38 to a second recirculated fluid tank 36. For example, the first heat fluid type may be a first type of refrigerant compound or a blend thereof (e.g., HFC-134a or an azeotropic, near-azeotropic, or non-azeotropic blend of HFC-134a), and the second heat fluid type may be a second type of refrigerant compound or a blend thereof (e.g., HFO-1234yf or an azeotropic, near-azeotropic, or non-azeotropic blend of HFO-1234yf).

[0040] If the composition of the recovered heat fluid 12 is determined to be of a second heat fluid type and has sufficient purity, it is permitted to be recycled. In one embodiment, during transport, the recirculated fluid is optionally transported via an oil separator (not shown) that separates oil to a level of <500 ppm. The fluid may also optionally be transported via a dryer (not shown) such that the resulting moisture content is <50 ppm. The final recirculated fluid 38 is then transported to a second recirculated fluid tank 36.

[0041] If it is determined that the composition of the recovered heat fluid 12 is of the second heat fluid type and its purity is insufficient, it is transported as recovered second heat fluid 42 to the second recovery fluid tank 40. The recovered second heat fluid 42 can then be regenerated. In one embodiment, the recovered second heat fluid 42 can be circulated through the system (e.g., an RRR machine) until the desired purity is achieved. For example, the second recovered heat fluid 42 in the second recovery fluid tank 40 can be purified 44 and retested 46 to obtain sufficient purity, thereby being returned to the second recovery fluid tank 40 as second recovered heat fluid 42 or to the second recirculation fluid tank 36 as second recirculation heat fluid 38. Those skilled in the art will understand that separate tanks 40 and 36, respectively including the first heat fluid 42 for recovery and the first recirculation heat fluid 38, are optional, as purification and retesting (i.e., regeneration) can be performed in a single tank or device 14.

[0042] If the second type of heat fluid is a blend of more than one refrigerant compound, the composition of the heat fluid can be adjusted to meet the heat fluid type composition by adding one or more refrigerant compounds at any point. The second recirculated heat fluid 38 in the second recirculated fluid tank 36 can be further tested, purified, or adjusted before becoming the second reusable heat fluid 50 supplied to the thermal management device 52. The thermal management device 52 may be the same as or different from the thermal management device 10.

[0043] although Figure 1 The system is configured to receive two different types of heat fluid, but other systems may receive one type or three or more types of heat fluid.

[0044] In some implementations, heat fluid is recovered from the vehicle's heat pump system or air conditioning system, or from the thermal management device of a portable or transportable system.

[0045] In some implementations, the vehicle is a car, and the recycling, recirculation, and reuse system is located at a car repair shop or car dealership.

[0046] In some embodiments, the heat fluid type is a refrigerant compound. Suitable refrigerant compounds for use in the systems and methods of this disclosure may include, but are not limited to, R-11; R-12; R-13; R-22; R-23; R-32; R-50; R-113; R-114; R-115; R-116; R-123; R-124; R-125; R-134a; R-134; R-141b; R-142b; R-143a; R-152a; R-170; R-218; R-227ea; R-236fa; R-245fa; R- 290; R-600; R-600a; R-601; R-601a; R-610; R-1130(E); R-1132(E); R-1132(Z); R-1336mzz(E); R-1233zd(E); R -1233zd(Z); R-1233xf; R-1234yf; R-1234ze(Z); R-1234ze(E); R-1252zc; R-1243yc; R-1270; and R-1336mzz(Z). In some embodiments, the heat fluid contains HFO-Z-1132 at concentrations of <5000ppm, <2000ppm, <1000ppm, <500ppm, <100ppm, <50ppm, <10ppm, or <5ppm, or <1ppm.

[0047] These refrigerants are referenced in ANSI / American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 34 (including its supplements), the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. The composition of certain blends can be found in ASHRAE's April 2023 Fact Brief 1: Updates on Nomenclature and Safety Classification of New Refrigerants, or at https: / / www.ashrae.org / technical-resources / standards-and-guidelines / ashrae-refrigerant-designations, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] In some implementations, the refrigerant compound is R-134a.

[0049] In some implementations, the refrigerant compound is R-1234yf.

[0050] In some implementations, the refrigerant compound is dichlorodifluoromethane (CCl2F2; R-12).

[0051] In some embodiments, the refrigerant compound is 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropylene (CF3-CH=CHF; R-1234ze).

[0052] In some implementations, the heat fluid type is a non-azeotropic, near-azeotropic, or azeotropic blend of two or more heat fluids.

[0053] In some embodiments, the heat fluid type includes one or more of the following refrigerant compounds: R-12, 2,2-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane (CF3-CHCl2; R-123), R-134a, R-134, 1,1-difluoroethane (CHF2-CH3; R-152a), R-227ea, (E)-1,2-dichloroethylene (CHCl=CHCl; t-DCE, R-1130(E)), R-1234yf, R-1132(E), R-1132(Z), R-32, R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R -1233xf, R-1224yd(Z), R-1224yd(E), (E)-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (CF3-CH=CHF; R-1234ze(E)), (Z)-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (CF3-CH=CHF; R-1234ze(Z)), (E)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene (CF3-CH=CH-CF3; R-1336mzz(E)) or (Z)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene (CF3-CH=CH-CF3; R-1336mzz(Z)). In some embodiments, the heat fluid contains HFO-Z-1132 at concentrations of <5000ppm, <2000ppm, <1000ppm, <500ppm, <100ppm, <50ppm, <10ppm, or <5ppm, or <1ppm.

[0054] Suitable non-azeotropic blend thermal fluid types for the systems and methods of this disclosure may include, but are not limited to, R-401A; R-401B; R-402A; R-402B; R-403A; R-403B; R-404A; R-405A; R-406A; R-407A; R-407B; R-407C; R-407D; R-407E; R-407F; R-407G; R407H; R407I; R-408A; R-409A; R-409B; R-410A; R-410B; R-411A; R-411B; R-412 A; R-413A; R-414A; R-414B; R-415A; R-415B; R-416A; R-417A; R-417B; R-417C; R-418A; R-419A; R-419B; R-420A; R-421A; R-421 B; R-422A; R-422B; R-422C; R-422D; R-422E; R-423A; R-424A; R-425A; R-426A; R-427A; R-428A; R-429A; R-430A; R-431A; R-432A ; R-433A; R-433B; R-433C; R-434A; R-435A; R-436A; R-436B; R-437A; R-438A; R-439A; R-440A; R-441A; R-442A; R-443A; R-444A ; R-444B; R-445A; R-446A; R-447A; R-447B; R-448A; R-449A; R-449B; R-449C; R-450A; R-451A; R-451B; R-452A; R-452B; R-452C; R-453A; R-454A; R-454B; R-454C; R-454D; R-455A; R-455B; R-455C; R-456A; R-457A; R-457B; R-457C; R-457D; R-458A; R-459A; R-459B; R-460A; R-460B; R-461A; R-462A; R-463A; R-464A; R-470A; R-476A; R-482A; R-491A; R-471B; R-471A; R-474A; and R479A.

[0055] In one embodiment, the thermal fluid blends used in the systems and methods of this disclosure preferably comprise blends suitable for use in automotive thermal management devices, such as heat pumps or air conditioning systems. Examples of such blends include, but are not limited to, R-444A, R-456A, R-474A, R-457C (7.5% R-32 / 78% HFO-1234yf / 14.5% HFC-152a), R-457D (4% R-32 / 82% HFO-1234yf / 14% HFC-152a), R-491A (35% HFO-1132E / 65% HFC-152a), blends of HFO-E-1132 and HFO-1252zc, blends of R-32, HFO-1252zc and HFO-E-1234ze, or blends of HFO-E-1132 and HFO-1243yc. In some embodiments, the heat fluid contains HFO-Z-1132 at concentrations of <5000ppm, <2000ppm, <1000ppm, <500ppm, <100ppm, <50ppm, <10ppm, or <5ppm, or <1ppm.

[0056] Suitable azeotropic blend thermal fluid types for the systems and methods of this disclosure may include, but are not limited to, R-410A; R-500; R-502; R-503; R-507A; R-508A; R-508B; R-509A; R-510A; R-511A; R-512A; R-513A; R-513B; R-514A; R-515A; R-515B; R-516A; R-516B; R-1132a and CO2; R-1132 (E) and R-32; R-1132(Z) and R-1234yf; R-1234yf and R-134a; R-1234yf and R-1234ze(E); R-1234ze(E) and R-134a; R-1234ze(E) and R-152a; R-1233zd(E) and R-1234ze(Z); R-1234ze(E) and R-227ea; and R-1336mzz(E) and R-1234ze(Z). In some embodiments, the heat fluid contains HFO-Z-1132 at <5000ppm, <2000ppm, <1000ppm, <500ppm, <100ppm, <50ppm, <10ppm, or <5ppm, or <1ppm.

[0057] In some embodiments, the heat fluid type is R-410A, R-512A, R-513A, R-513B, R-514A, R-515A, R-515B, or R-516A. The composition of these heat fluid types is shown in Table 1.

[0058] Table 1

[0059] Compositions of azeotropic and near-azeotropic thermal fluid types

[0060]

[0061] In some embodiments, the first recirculating heat fluid and / or the second recirculating heat fluid comprises R-134a and one or more additional compounds selected from HFC-134, HCFC-124, HCFO-1122, HFC-143a, HCFC-31, HFC-32, HFC-125, CFC-114, CFC-114a, and HFO-1234yf.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first recirculating heat fluid and / or the second recirculating heat fluid comprises R-1234yf and one or more additional compounds selected from R-32, R-1225zc, R-1225ye(Z), R-1225yf(E), R-245cb, R-245eb, R-1243zf, F-40, R-244bb, R-254eb, R-134a, R-134, R-152a, R-2223, R-1234ze(E), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-124, R-1131a, R-1132(E), R-142b, and R-1131(E).

[0063] In some embodiments, the first recirculating heat fluid and / or the second recirculating heat fluid comprises R-134a and R-1234yf, and (i) one or more additional compounds selected from HFC-134, HCFC-124, HCFO-1122, HFC-143a, HCFC-31, HFC-32, HFC-125, CFC-114, CFC-114a, and HFO-1234yf, and (ii) One or more additional compounds selected from R-1225cz, R-1225ye(Z), R-1225yf(E), R-245cb, R-245eb, R-1243zf, F-40, R-244bb, R-254eb, R-134a, R-152a, R-2223, R-1234ze(E), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-124, R-1131a, R-142b and R-1131(E).

[0064] In some embodiments, the first recirculating heat fluid and / or the second recirculating heat fluid comprises R-1234ze(E) and one or more additional compounds selected from R-134a, R-1225zc, R-1234yf, R-245cb, R-236fa, R-1234ze(Z), R-1225ye(E), R-1225ye(Z), R-245fa, R-124, R-114, R-152a, R-1243zf, R-2223, R-1234zc, R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, and R-263fb.

[0065] In some embodiments, the first recirculating heat fluid and / or the second recirculating heat fluid comprises R-227ea and one or more additional compounds selected from R-236fa, R-124, R-217ba, R-1225zc and R-1225ye(Z).

[0066] In some embodiments, the first recirculating heat fluid and / or the second recirculating heat fluid comprises R-1132(E) and one or more additional compounds selected from R-32, R-1234ze(E) and R-1234yf.

[0067] In some embodiments, the recovery of hot fluids from the thermal management unit is carried out via a recovery system that may include a combination of recovery compressors, air-cooled condensers, and / or fans. The compressed and condensed refrigerant may be transported from this recovery system for composition and / or impurity testing or to a recovery tank. Hot fluid recovery can be configured to recover a wide variety or only a limited number of hot fluids or refrigerant compounds. The recovery system may utilize a single loop for a single hot fluid type or multiple loops for multiple fluid types.

[0068] In some embodiments, recycling includes testing the recovered heat fluid, purifying the recovered heat fluid as needed, adjusting the composition of the recovered heat fluid as needed, and stabilizing the recovered heat fluid as needed. In some embodiments, recycling includes validating the recycled heat fluid as a recycleable heat fluid.

[0069] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the RRR machine may be connected to one of a plurality of systems for adding stabilizers to and / or removing stabilizers from the stabilized regenerated heat fluid, or may be attached to a stabilizer injection kit for metering the addition of stabilizers to a system.

[0070] In some embodiments, the test includes determining the composition and / or amount of organic purity of the recovered heat fluid. In some embodiments, a refrigerant analyzer performs the test. The analyzer determines the composition and purity of the recovered heat fluid. In some embodiments, when heat fluid is recovered from a thermal management unit, the analyzer determines the type and purity of the recovered heat fluid. The analyzer may alternatively determine the type and purity of the solidified composition of the recovered heat fluid. If the analyzer determines that the analyzed heat fluid is organically pure (e.g., at least about 95 wt%, or about 96 wt%, or about 97 wt%, or about 98 wt%, or about 99 wt%, or about 99.5 wt%) and has a heat fluid type, the heat fluid can be transferred to a suitable recirculation heat fluid tank. However, if impurities are found in the heat fluid analyzed by the analyzer (or organic purity less than about 95 wt%, or about 96 wt%, or about 97 wt%, or about 98 wt%, or about 99 wt%, or about 99.5 wt%) (such as air, an unknown fluid, or an incorrect heat fluid), the recovered heat fluid can be transported for regeneration. Fluids containing high levels of oil or moisture can be reduced to acceptable levels using RRR (Refrigerant Regeneration) equipment. Similarly, if refrigerants with high levels of oil, moisture, or other contaminants cannot be reduced, they can be transported off-site for regeneration.

[0071] In some embodiments, purification includes removing one or more impurities from the recovered heat fluid. In some embodiments, purification includes removing acids, moisture, and high-boiling-point residues through, for example, a filter, filter dryer, absorbent bed, or absorbent column. The absorbent may be one or a combination of alumina, molecular sieves, silica gel, zeolite, etc. In some embodiments, purification includes a process for removing NAG.

[0072] If the purity does not meet the appropriate standards for recirculated heat fluid after purification, the recovered heat fluid can be returned for further purification or transported to a regeneration site for regeneration.

[0073] Optionally, in some embodiments, purification is performed by a regenerator. The regenerator may include at least a compressor, a separator, and a filter dryer, and may also include a distillation unit, a diluent, or a reformer. In some embodiments, the compressor is driven to circulate the hot fluid in a refrigerant circuit, such that voltage is applied to reduce or remove oil, such as refrigeration oil, from the hot fluid. In some embodiments, the separator is a type of oil separator. In some embodiments, the filter dryer reduces or removes water and acid contained in the hot fluid. The regenerator may also determine information regarding the suitability of oil, water, and acid contained in the hot fluid after regeneration treatment and compile information such as the hot fluid composition and weight. After appropriate purification, the hot fluid meets the AHRI Standard 700 purity specification.

[0074] In embodiments where the recovered hot fluid contains at least one HFO refrigerant compound, stabilization may include adding a stabilizer package to the hot fluid, as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0108119, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the stabilizer package contains an effective amount of at least one inhibitor such that the hot fluid remains substantially free of oligomers, homopolymers, or other polymer products derived from the hot fluid. In some embodiments, the inhibitor is added to the hot fluid as a pure component. In some embodiments, the at least one inhibitor is selected from hydrocarbons such as cyclic monoterpenes (e.g., limonene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, and terpinene); lipophilic organic compounds such as tocopherols (e.g., α-tocopherol) or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT); phenols or aromatic organic compounds having at least one chemical moiety -C6H4(OH) (e.g., benzene-1,4-diol, 4-methoxyphenol); and mixtures thereof. Specific examples of inhibitory compounds may include at least one member selected from the group consisting of limonene (especially D-limonene), α-terpinene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), 4-methoxyphenol, benzene-1,4-diol, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the inhibitory composition comprises a liquid with a temperature of about -80°C to about 180°C, about -70°C to about 170°C, and in some cases about -60°C to about 160°C. The term "stable" refers to a composition containing an effective amount of at least one inhibitory compound that inhibits (if not eliminates) the interaction of vinyl fluoride with another compound to form dimers, oligomers, homopolymers, or polymers.

[0075] In some embodiments, the stabilizer package contains an effective amount of at least one acid scavenger. Examples of acid scavengers that may be included in the compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, the stabilizers and / or epoxide components of stabilizers disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,535,555 and the acid scavengers disclosed in International Application Publication No. WO 2020 / 222864, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0076] In some embodiments, the acid scavenger may comprise one or more epoxides, one or more amines, and / or one or more hindered amines, such as, for example, but not limited to, epoxide.

[0077] In some embodiments, the inhibitor is premixed with the HFO compound. In some embodiments, the stabilizer package also contains a dye, such as that described in International Application Publication No. WO 2023 / 141098, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the dye is an ultraviolet dye that absorbs light in the ultraviolet or near-ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Any compatible dye may be included in the compositions of the present invention. Suitable compatible dyes may include, but are not limited to, at least one compound containing a fluorescein substance selected from 6-hydroxy-3H-xanthon-3-one derivatives and having an absorption peak of about 425 nm to about 433 nm, another absorption peak of about 292 nm to about 295 nm, and in some cases a third absorption peak of about 243 nm to about 250 nm. The absorption peaks can be measured using UV-Vis. Compatible dyes can also be characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, such as having an absorption peak of about 700 cm⁻¹. -1 Approximately 800cm -1 Approximately 1000cm -1 Approximately 1100cm -1 Approximately 1200cm -1 Approximately 1300cm -1 and / or approximately 1400cm -1 Approximately 1600cm -1 The peaks between [specific values]. Based on the total weight of the composition, the amount of dye may range from about 30% by weight to about 0.001% by weight, alternatively from about 20% by weight to about 0.001% by weight, alternatively from about 5% by weight to about 0.001% by weight, or any value, range, or subrange therebetween. The dye, lubricant, HFO, and inhibitor, along with other components of the stabilizer package, may be combined in any suitable order. In some embodiments, the dye is dissolved in the lubricant, and then the HFO containing the inhibitor is added. In some embodiments, the dye is dissolved in the lubricant containing the inhibitor, and then the HFO is added.

[0078] In some embodiments, when the recovered or recirculated heat fluid is a blend of two or more refrigerant compounds, the composition of the recovered or recirculated heat fluid can be adjusted to meet a desired heat fluid type composition by adding one or more refrigerant compounds at any point. Preferably, this is achieved by utilizing... Figure 1 The system was completed on-site.

[0079] In some implementations, verification includes confirming that the recovered heat fluid has an organic purity of more than about 95% by weight, or about 96% by weight, or about 97% by weight, or about 98% by weight, or about 99% by weight, or about 99.5% by weight, and meets predetermined criteria for recirculated heat fluid. In the case of heat fluid containing R-134a and / or R-1234yf, the recirculated heat fluid meets the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J2099 standard, which states that the recirculated heat fluid contains less than 1.5% NAG by volume, less than 500 ppm (parts per million) of high-boiling-point residues by weight, and less than 50 ppm of water by weight.

[0080] In some implementations, the recycled and reused heat fluid meets the Standard for Specifications for Refrigerants (AHRI 700), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. AHRI 700 specifies acceptable levels (purity requirements) of contaminants such as fluorocarbons, hydrocarbons, and carbon dioxide in refrigerants, regardless of their source, and lists acceptable test methods.

[0081] Example

[0082] The invention will be described in more detail through specific embodiments. The following embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the invention in any way. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various non-critical parameters can be changed or modified to produce substantially the same results. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the activities mentioned in the embodiments (including but not limited to testing, identification, verification, purification, etc.) can be performed using an RRR machine or another type of testing and processing apparatus suitable for field use (e.g., portable or transportable devices).

[0083] Example 1

[0084] The car arrived at the auto repair shop for repairs. It was determined that the air conditioning heat exchanger needed to be replaced. The air conditioning heat exchanger was recovered from the car and identified as type R-134a.

[0085] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site. The recovered heat fluid is optionally combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce levels of acidity, moisture, and high-boiling-point residues to below predetermined values. The recovered heat fluid is verified on-site to meet the requirements of R-134a type recirculating heat fluids.

[0086] The recirculated heat fluid is stored on-site until it is needed when a vehicle being repaired at an auto repair shop requires replacement of its R-134a type air conditioning heat fluid. After recovering its waste air conditioning heat fluid, it is reused by adding it to the vehicle's air conditioning system on-site.

[0087] Example 2

[0088] The car arrived at the auto repair shop for repairs. It was determined that the air conditioning (or heat pump) hot fluid needed to be replaced. The air conditioning hot fluid was recovered from the car and identified as type R-1234yf.

[0089] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site. The recovered heat fluid is combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce levels of acidity, moisture, NAG, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The recovered heat fluid is validated on-site to meet the requirements of the R-1234yf type recirculating heat fluid. Optionally, a stabilizer package is added to the recirculating heat fluid.

[0090] The recirculated heat fluid is stored on-site until it is needed when a vehicle being repaired at an auto repair shop requires replacement of its R-1234yf type air conditioning heat fluid. After recovering its waste air conditioning heat fluid, it is reused by adding it to the vehicle's air conditioning system on-site.

[0091] Example 3

[0092] The car arrived at the auto repair shop for repairs. It was determined that the air conditioning (or heat pump) hot fluid in the car needed to be replaced. The air conditioning hot fluid was recovered from the car and identified as a mixture of R-1234yf and R-134a.

[0093] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site. The recovered heat fluid is combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce levels of acidity, moisture, NAG, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The recovered heat fluid is validated on-site to meet the requirements for recirculated heat fluids of R-1234yf and R-134a. Optionally, a stabilizer package is added to the recirculated heat fluid.

[0094] The recirculated heat fluid is stored on-site until it is needed when a vehicle being repaired at an auto repair shop requires replacement of its R-1234yf and R134a type air conditioning heat fluid. After recovering its waste air conditioning heat fluid, it is reused by adding it to the vehicle's air conditioning system on-site.

[0095] Example 4

[0096] The air conditioning heat transfer fluid in the refrigeration and air conditioning system needs to be replaced. The air conditioning heat transfer fluid was recovered from the system and identified as type R-513A.

[0097] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site. The recovered heat fluid is optionally combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce the levels of acidity, moisture, NAG, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The composition of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if R-1234yf or R-134a (which is added to the recovered heat fluid) needs to be added. The recovered heat fluid is validated on-site to meet the requirements of R-513A type recirculating heat fluid. Optionally, a stabilizer package is added to the recirculating heat fluid.

[0098] The recirculated heat fluid is returned to the same unit where it was recovered. After recovering its waste air conditioning heat fluid, the recirculated heat fluid is reused by adding it to the same air conditioning system on-site.

[0099] Example 5

[0100] The air conditioning heat transfer fluid in the refrigeration and air conditioning system needs to be replaced. The air conditioning heat transfer fluid is recovered from the system and identified as type R-515B.

[0101] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if it is sufficiently pure. The recovered heat fluid is optionally combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce the levels of acidity, moisture, NAG, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The composition of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if R-1234ze or R-227ea (which is added to the recovered heat fluid) needs to be added. The recovered heat fluid is verified on-site to meet the requirements of R-515B type recirculating heat fluid.

[0102] The recirculated heat fluid is returned to the same unit where it was recovered. After recovering its waste air conditioning heat fluid, the recirculated heat fluid is reused by adding it to the same air conditioning system on-site.

[0103] Example 6

[0104] The air conditioning heat transfer fluid in the refrigeration and air conditioning system needs to be replaced. The air conditioning heat transfer fluid was recovered from the system and identified as type R-410A.

[0105] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if it is sufficiently pure. The recovered heat fluid is optionally combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce levels of acidity, moisture, NAG, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The composition of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if R-32 or R-125 needs to be added (which is added to the recovered heat fluid). The recovered heat fluid is validated on-site to meet the requirements of R-410A type recirculating heat fluid.

[0106] The recirculated heat fluid is returned to the same unit where it was recovered. After recovering its waste air conditioning heat fluid, the recirculated heat fluid is reused by adding it to the same air conditioning system on-site.

[0107] Example 7

[0108] The car arrived at the auto repair shop for repairs. It was determined that the air conditioning or heat pump fluid needed to be replaced. The air conditioning or heat pump fluid was recovered from the car and identified as type R-444A.

[0109] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site. The recovered heat fluid is optionally combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce the levels of acidity, moisture, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The composition of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if R-1234ze and / or R-152a and / or R-32 (which are added to the recovered heat fluid) need to be added. The recovered heat fluid is verified on-site to meet the requirements of R-444A type recirculating heat fluid.

[0110] The recirculated heat fluid is stored on-site until it is needed when a vehicle undergoing repair at an auto repair shop requires replacement of its R-444A heat fluid. After its waste heat fluid is recovered, it is reused by adding it on-site to the vehicle's air conditioning or heat pump system.

[0111] Example 8

[0112] The car arrived at the auto repair shop for repairs. It was determined that the air conditioning or heat pump fluid in the car needed to be replaced. The air conditioning or heat pump fluid was recovered from the car and identified as type R-474A.

[0113] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site. The recovered heat fluid is optionally combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce the levels of acidity, moisture, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The composition of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if R-1132(E) and / or R-1234yf and / or R-32 (which are added to the recovered heat fluid) need to be added. The recovered heat fluid is verified on-site to meet the requirements of R-474A type recirculating heat fluid.

[0114] The recirculated heat fluid is stored on-site until it is needed when a vehicle being repaired at an auto repair shop requires replacement of its R-474A air conditioning or heat pump heat fluid. After its waste heat fluid is recovered, it is reused by adding it on-site to the vehicle's air conditioning or heat pump system.

[0115] Example 9

[0116] The car arrived at the auto repair shop for repairs. It was determined that the air conditioning or heat pump fluid needed to be replaced. The air conditioning or heat pump fluid was recovered from the car and identified as type R-491A.

[0117] The purity of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site. The recovered heat fluid is optionally combined on-site with other recovered heat fluids of the same type and purified on-site to reduce the levels of acidity, moisture, and high-boiling residues to below predetermined values. The composition of the recovered heat fluid is optionally tested on-site to determine if R-1132(E) and / or R-152a (which is added to the recovered heat fluid) need to be added. The recovered heat fluid is verified on-site to meet the requirements of R-491A type recirculating heat fluid.

[0118] The recirculated heat fluid is stored on-site until it is needed when a vehicle being repaired at an auto repair shop requires replacement of its R-491A air conditioning or heat pump heat fluid. After its waste heat fluid is recovered, it is reused by adding it on-site to the vehicle's air conditioning or heat pump system.

[0119] Other implementation plans

[0120] Implementation Scheme 1: A method for recovering, recycling, and reusing a thermal fluid, the method comprising: recovering a thermal fluid containing at least one refrigerant compound as a recovered thermal fluid from at least one thermal management device in the field; recycling the recovered thermal fluid in the field, wherein the recycling includes testing the composition and impurity level of the recovered thermal fluid, purifying the recovered thermal fluid as needed to reduce the impurity level, and adjusting the composition of the recovered thermal fluid as needed to provide a recycled thermal fluid that meets predetermined purity and composition standards for a predetermined thermal fluid type, and verifying that the recycled thermal fluid has an organic purity greater than 98% by weight; and reusing the thermal fluid in the field, wherein the reuse includes filling the recycled thermal fluid into a thermal management device; wherein the method is performed in the field.

[0121] Implementation Scheme 2: According to the method of Implementation Scheme 1, the recirculation further includes combining the recovered heat fluid with an additional recovered heat fluid of the same predetermined heat fluid type.

[0122] Implementation Scheme 3: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 2, wherein the purification includes filtering the recovered hot fluid.

[0123] Implementation Scheme 4: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 3, wherein the purification reduces the water content of the recovered heat fluid.

[0124] Implementation Scheme 5: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 4, wherein the purification reduces the content of high-boiling-point residues in the recovered heat fluid.

[0125] Implementation Scheme 6: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 5, wherein the purification reduces the level of non-absorbable gases in the recovered heat fluid.

[0126] Implementation Scheme 7: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 6, wherein the purification reduces the content of non-absorbable gases to less than 1.5% by volume, the content of high-boiling-point residues to less than 500 parts per million by weight, and the water content to less than 50 parts per million by weight.

[0127] Implementation Scheme 8: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 7, wherein the recirculation further includes adding at least one inhibitor to the recovered heat fluid to stabilize the recovered heat fluid.

[0128] Implementation Scheme 9: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 8, wherein the recycling further includes adding at least one dye to the recovered heat fluid.

[0129] Implementation Scheme 10: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 9, wherein the at least one thermal management device comprises multiple air conditioning systems of multiple vehicles.

[0130] Implementation Scheme 11: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 10, wherein the location of the site is selected from a group consisting of auto repair shops and auto dealers.

[0131] Implementation Scheme 12: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 11, wherein the at least one refrigerant compound is selected from the group consisting of: R-12, R-123, R-134a, R-134, R-152a, R-227ea, R-1130(E), R-1234yf, R-1132(E), R-1132(Z), R-32, R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-1234ze(E), R-1234ze(Z), R-1336mzz(E) and R-1336mzz(Z).

[0132] Implementation Scheme 13: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 12, wherein the predetermined heat fluid type is selected from the group consisting of R-134a and R-1234yf.

[0133] Implementation Scheme 14: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 13, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-134a and one or more additional compounds selected from HFC-134, HCFC-124, HCFO-1122, HFC-143a, HCFC-31, HFC-32, HFC-125, CFC-114, CFC-114a and 1234yf.

[0134] Implementation Scheme 15: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 14, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-1234yf and one or more additional compounds selected from R-1225zc, R-1225ye(Z), R-1225yf(E), R-245cb, R-245eb, R-32, R-1243zf, F-40, R-244bb, R-254eb, R-134a, R-152a, R-2223, R-1234ze(E), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-124, R-1131a, R-1132(E), R-142b, and R-1131(E).

[0135] Implementation Scheme 16: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 15, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-134a and R-1234yf, and (i) one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of HFC-134, HCFC-124, HCFO-1122, HFC-143a, HCFC-31, HFC-32, HFC-125, CFC-114, CFC-114a and 1234yf, and (ii) One or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of R-1225zc, R-1225ye(Z), R-1225yf(E), R-245cb, R-245eb, R-1243zf, F-40, R-244bb, R-254eb, R-134a, R-152a, R-2223, R-1234ze(E), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-124, R-1131a, R-142b, and R-1131(E).

[0136] Implementation Scheme 17: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 16, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises (i) R-1234ze(E) and one or more selected from R-134a, R-1225zc, R-1234yf, R-245cb, R-236fa, R-1234ze(Z), R-1225ye(E), R-1225ye(Z), R-245fa, R-12 4. Additional compounds of the group consisting of R-114, R-152a, R-1243zf, R-2223, R-1234zc, R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf and R-263fb; or (ii) R-1132(E) and one or more additional compounds selected from R-32, R-1234ze(E) and R-1234yf.

[0137] Implementation Scheme 18: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 17, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-227ea and one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of R-236fa, R-124, R-217ba, R-1225zc and R-1225ye(Z).

[0138] Implementation Scheme 19: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 18, wherein the predetermined heat fluid type is selected from the group consisting of R-410A, R-512A, R-513A, R-513B, R-514A, R-515A, R-515B and R-516A.

[0139] Implementation Scheme 20: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 19, wherein the at least one refrigerant compound is selected from R-1234yf, R-1234ze(E), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-1224yd(Z), R-1224yd(E), R-1234ze(Z), R-1336mzz(E) and R-1336mzz(Z).

[0140] Implementation Scheme 21: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 20, wherein the method is performed by a recycling, recirculation, and refilling (RRR) machine.

[0141] Implementation Scheme 22: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 21, wherein the at least one refrigerant compound is a hydrofluoroolefin.

[0142] Implementation Scheme 23: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 22, wherein the recirculation further includes adding at least one inhibitor to the recovered heat fluid to stabilize the recovered heat fluid.

[0143] Implementation Scheme 24: The method according to Implementation Scheme 23, wherein the at least one inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of: hydrocarbons including at least cyclic monoterpenes; lipophilic organic compounds; and phenols, aromatic organic compounds having at least one chemical moiety -C6H4(OH), including benzene-1,4-diol, particularly selected from at least one member of the group consisting of D-limonene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-terpinene, α-tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, 4-methoxyphenol, benzene-1,4-diol, and mixtures thereof.

[0144] Implementation Scheme 25: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 24, wherein the recovered heat fluid and / or the recirculated heat fluid optionally comprises at least one inhibitor selected from the group consisting of: hydrocarbons comprising at least cyclic monoterpenes; lipophilic organic compounds; and phenols, aromatic organic compounds having at least one chemical moiety -C6H4(OH), preferably selected from at least one member of the group consisting of D-limonene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-terpinene, α-tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, 4-methoxyphenol, benzene-1,4-diol, and mixtures thereof.

[0145] Implementation Scheme 26: According to the method of Implementation Scheme 25, the at least one refrigerant compound is a hydrofluoroolefin, preferably R-1234yf.

[0146] Implementation Scheme 27: The method according to any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 24, wherein the recovered heat fluid and / or the recirculated heat fluid optionally contains at least one acid scavenger.

[0147] Implementation Scheme 28: A reusable thermal fluid formed by any one of Implementation Schemes 1 to 27.

[0148] Although this specification contains numerous specific implementation details, these details should not be construed as limiting any invention or the scope of the claims, but rather as descriptions of features characteristic of a particular embodiment of a particular invention. Certain features described in this specification in the context of an independent embodiment may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually in multiple embodiments or in any suitable sub-combination. Furthermore, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations, or even initially claimed in this way, in some cases one or more features from the claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and the claimed combination may involve sub-combinations or variations thereof.

[0149] Similarly, although operations are depicted in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific or sequential order shown, or to perform all shown operations to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of the various system components in the above embodiments should not be construed as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0150] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the example embodiments pertain. It should also be understood that terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field, and not as an idealized or overly formalized meaning, unless expressly defined herein.

[0151] While this disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes may be made and elements may be substituted with equivalents without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, various modifications may be made to suit particular situations or materials to fit the teachings of this disclosure without departing from its essential scope. Although various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting; the true scope and substance are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for recovering, recycling, and reusing a thermal fluid, the method comprising: On-site recovery of a hot fluid containing at least one refrigerant compound from at least one thermal management device as a recovered hot fluid; The recovered heat fluid is recirculated on-site, wherein the recirculation includes testing the composition and impurity levels of the recovered heat fluid, purifying the recovered heat fluid as needed to reduce the impurity levels, adjusting the composition of the recovered heat fluid as needed to provide a recirculated heat fluid that meets predetermined purity and composition standards for a predetermined heat fluid type, and verifying that the recirculated heat fluid has an organic purity greater than 98% by weight; and The hot fluid is reused on-site, wherein the reuse includes filling the recirculated hot fluid into a thermal management device.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the recirculation further comprises combining the recovered heat fluid with an additional recovered heat fluid of the same predetermined heat fluid type.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the purification comprises filtering the recovered hot fluid.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the purification reduces the water content of the recovered heat fluid.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the purification reduces the content of high-boiling-point residues in the recovered heat fluid.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the purification reduces the level of non-absorbable gases in the recovered heat fluid.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the purification reduces the content of non-absorbable gases to less than 1.5% by volume, the content of high-boiling-point residues to less than 500 parts per million by weight, and the water content to less than 50 parts per million by weight.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the recirculation further comprises adding at least one inhibitor to the recovered heat fluid to stabilize the recovered heat fluid.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the recycling further comprises adding at least one dye to the recycled thermal fluid.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the at least one thermal management device comprises multiple air conditioning systems of multiple vehicles.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the location of the site is selected from the group consisting of auto repair shops and auto dealerships.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the at least one refrigerant compound is selected from the group consisting of: R-12, R-123, R-134a, R-134, R-152a, R-227ea, R-1130(E), R-1234yf, R-1132(E), R-1132(Z), R-32, R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-1224yd(Z), R-1224yd(E), R-1234ze(E), R-1234ze(Z), R-1252zc, R-1243yc, R-1336mzz(E) and R-1336mzz(Z).

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the predetermined heat fluid type is selected from the group consisting of R-134a and R-1234yf.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-134a and one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of HFC-134, HCFC-124, HCFO-1122, HFC-143a, HCFC-31, HFC-32, HFC-125, CFC-114, CFC-114a and HFO-1234yf.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-1234yf and one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of R-1225zc, R-1225ye(Z), R-1225yf(E), R-245cb, R-245eb, R-1243zf, F-40, R-244bb, R-254eb, R-32, R-134a, R-134, R-152a, R-2223, R-1234ze(E), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-124, R-1132(E), R-1131a, R-142b and R-1131(E).

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-134a and R-1234yf, and (i) one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of HFC-134, HCFC-124, HCFO-1122, HFC-143a, HCFC-31, HFC-32, HFC-125, CFC-114, CFC-114a and HFO-1234yf, and (ii) One or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of R-1225cz, R-1225ye(Z), R-1225yf(E), R-245cb, R-245eb, R-1243zf, F-40, R-244bb, R-254eb, R-134a, R-152a, R-2223, R-1234ze(E), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-124, R-1131a, R-142b, and R-1131(E).

17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises (i) R-1234ze(E) and one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of R-134a, R-1225zc, R-1234yf, R-245cb, R-236fa, R-1234ze(Z), R-1225ye(E), R-1225ye(Z), R-245fa, R-124, R-114, R-152a, R-1243zf, R-2223, R-1234zc, R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf and R-263fb; or (ii) R-1132(E) and one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of R-32, R-1234ze(E) and R-1234yf.

18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the recirculating heat fluid comprises R-227ea and one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting of R-236fa, R-124, R-217ba, R-1225zc and R-1225ye(Z).

19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the predetermined heat fluid type is selected from the group consisting of R-410A, R-512A, R-513A, R-513B, R-514A, R-515A, R-515B and R-516A.

20. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the at least one refrigerant compound is selected from the group consisting of R-1234yf, R-1234ze(E), R-1234ze(Z), R-1233zd(E), R-1233zd(Z), R-1233xf, R-1224yd(Z), R-1224yd(E), R-1336mzz(E) and R-1336mzz(Z).

21. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the method is performed by a recycling, recirculation, and refilling (RRR) machine.

22. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the at least one refrigerant compound is a hydrofluoroolefin.

23. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the recirculation further comprises adding at least one inhibitor to the recovered heat fluid to stabilize the recovered heat fluid.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the at least one inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of: hydrocarbons comprising at least cyclic monoterpenes; lipophilic organic compounds; and phenols, aromatic organic compounds having at least one chemical moiety -C6H4(OH), including benzene-1,4-diol, preferably at least one member selected from the group consisting of D-limonene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-terpinene, α-tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, 4-methoxyphenol, benzene-1,4-diol, and mixtures thereof.

25. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the recovered heat fluid and / or the recirculated heat fluid optionally comprises at least one inhibitor selected from the group consisting of: hydrocarbons comprising at least cyclic monoterpenes; lipophilic organic compounds; and phenols, aromatic organic compounds having at least one chemical moiety -C6H4(OH), preferably selected from at least one member of the group consisting of D-limonene, pinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-terpinene, α-tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, 4-methoxyphenol, benzene-1,4-diol, and mixtures thereof.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the at least one refrigerant compound is a hydrofluoroolefin, preferably R-1234yf.

27. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the recovered heat fluid and / or the recirculated heat fluid optionally comprises at least one acid scavenger.

28. A reusable thermal fluid formed by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 27.

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