Purpose

This presentation introduced dealers and installers to Fujitsu General’s new R32 refrigerant wall-mounted systems — the KU, KM, and CM series — outlining product features, environmental benefits, safety standards, and installation procedures

1. New Product Line Overview

  • KU Series: Designer range, reverse cycle.

  • KM Series: Standard reverse cycle.

  • CM Series: Cooling only.

  • Designed with a simple, unified appearance that complements modern interiors

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  • Launch included improved efficiency, quieter operation, and environmentally friendly refrigerant.

Release Timeline:

  • Production commenced August–October 2013 across the full capacity range (2.1–7.1 kW)

2. Efficiency Improvements

  • Energy ratings increased by up to 5.5 stars for 2.1 kW cooling-only models.

  • R32 refrigerant improved energy efficiency by ~10% and reduced charge volumes by 15% vs. R410A

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  • Enhanced DC fan motor, DC rotary compressor, and multi-path heat exchanger.

3. Key Product Features

  • Human Sensor: Detects occupancy and adjusts temperature automatically for energy savings.

  • Power Diffuser (KM series): Adjusts airflow angle depending on heating or cooling mode.

  • Built-in Demand Response: Integrated Demand Control PCB for smart energy management with utility networks.

  • 7-Day Programmable Timer: Weekly, program, and sleep timers as standard.

  • Quiet Operation: Noise levels as low as 21 dB(A).

  • 10 °C Heat Operation: Prevents excessive cooling when rooms are unoccupied

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4. Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

  • R32 is a difluoromethane (A2 flammable) refrigerant with low Global Warming Potential (GWP = 675 kg CO₂ eq).

  • Systems comply with AS/NZS 60335.2.40, AS/NZS 1677.1–2, and AS/NZS 3000 standards.

  • No additional licensing required: Standard ARCtick certification remains valid for R32 handling

5. Flammability and Safety Considerations

  • R32 requires three conditions to ignite: specific concentration (14–30 vol %), oxygen, and ignition source.

  • Flame propagation speed: Only 0.19 km/h (slower than walking speed).

  • By-products: Hydrogen fluoride may form during combustion—prevented by using nitrogen during brazing.

  • Fujitsu design mitigations include:

    • Non-sparking electrical components.

    • Enclosed chassis to prevent flame spread.

    • Construction minimizing refrigerant stagnation

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6. Installation and Labelling

  • Label all systems and exposed piping every two meters with flammable gas warning labels.

  • Follow Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide (AIRAH, 2013) for:

    • Handling, transport, and storage of cylinders.

    • Exclusion zones and ventilation setup during service.

    • PPE requirements and signage (“Flammable Gas – Do Not Enter”).

  • Cylinder Storage: Up to 22 L total can be stored in “minor storage” under AS 4332 provisions

7. Installation & Tooling Requirements

  • Most R410A tools are compatible with R32:

    • Manifold gauge, torque wrench, flare tool, and pipe bender remain the same.

    • New R32-specific items:

      • R32 service and recovery cylinders (must not mix gases).

      • Flare-less joint removal tool

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  • Vacuum: Evacuate to minimum 500 microns using a non-return valve pump.

  • Recovery Units: Must be carbon-brush-free and isolated at GPO to prevent sparking

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8. New Connection Method – Flare-less Joints

  • Required under AS/NZS 60335.2.40 for flammable refrigerants.

  • Flare-less, single-use joints used indoors to prevent leakage and ensure compliance.

  • Installation steps (pages 61–68):

    1. Mark pipe insertion depth (22–23 mm).

    2. Insert and hand-tighten.

    3. Torque to 16–18 N·m (¼") or 32–42 N·m (⅜").

    4. Confirm marking is ≤ 1 mm from tightening nut.

    5. Conduct pressure test (dry nitrogen) and vacuum test (500 microns).

  • Removal requires a dedicated flare-less joint removal tool; joints cannot be reused

9. Servicing and Support

  • For all technical or warranty concerns, technicians are directed to Fujitsu General Technical Support (1300 364 484)

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Summary

The R32 product launch represented a major milestone for Fujitsu General in sustainability, safety, and efficiency.
Dealers and installers were trained to:

  • Understand the benefits and hazards of R32.

  • Follow AIRAH safety guidelines.

  • Use R32-compatible tools and adhere to Australian Standards.

  • Implement flare-less joint installation for leak-free, compliant systems.