In preparation for the upcoming regulatory changes introduced by the new EU F-Gas Regulation, training on alternative refrigerants —especially flammable ones— is becoming increasingly essential in the HVACR sector. Responding to this need, Centro Studi Galileo (CSG) and ATF – Associazione Tecnici del Freddo, the new European Lead Project Manager for Real Alternatives, hosted a dedicated “Real Alternatives: Train-the-Trainers” course on flammable refrigerants for Swedish RACHP professionals.
The course was organised at the request of SKVP – Svenska Kyl & Värmepumpföreningen (Swedish Cooling & Heat Pump Association), which acts as the National Lead for Real Alternatives in Sweden. A group of 11 participants, accompanied by Johan Lande from SKVP, travelled to Casale Monferrato to attend the two-day programme.
The training focused on both theoretical and practical aspects, with particular emphasis on safety procedures and correct handling of flammable refrigerants. The course covered key topics such as refrigerant properties, flammability risks, system design differences, service procedures, and leak reduction.
A complete and standardised programme
Theoretical sessions included:
- Introduction to natural and flammable refrigerants
- Flammability and safety hazards
- Cylinder handling and working safely
- Application and design considerations for flammable refrigerants
Practical tasks were carried out according to the Real Alternatives European assessment framework, including refrigerant recovery, component replacement, pressure testing, system charging and commissioning.
A standardised multiple-choice knowledge test concluded the training.
Participants expressed strong satisfaction with the programme, highlighting the value of qualified, hands-on training to ensure alignment with new environmental and safety regulations across the European HVACR market.
For more information on Real Alternatives, please visit: realalternatives.eu
