The performance and longevity of a heat pump depend significantly on the quality of the heating circuit. Air and gas bubbles in heat pumps and the system are often an underestimated issue, leading to efficiency losses, irregular heat transfer, and potential damage to heat exchangers. These challenges become even more critical with the increasing use of R290 as a refrigerant, as it requires highly precise monitoring solutions.

SIKA provides the solution for the safe operation of heat pump systems with its VVX series Vortex flow sensors. In addition to precise flow measurement, these sensors feature an advanced flow monitoring function—they detect bubble formation in real time. This high-resolution disturbance detection ensures that malfunctions are identified early, enabling proactive system protection.

The use of Bubble Detection enables continuous monitoring of the heating circuit, ensuring that air and gas bubbles do not negatively impact heat transfer or overall system performance. At the same time, VVX sensors operate with minimal pressure loss, contributing to the optimization of the system’s Coefficient of Performance (COP). Thanks to the intelligent LIN bus interface, diagnostics and monitoring functions can be seamlessly integrated into the central system control. This provides OEMs with an advanced monitoring solution that delivers valuable insights both during commissioning and throughout operation.

Why Is This Critical?

Air pockets and gas bubbles can lead to insufficient heat transfer and damage to heat exchangers. With SIKA’s disturbance detection, operational issues are identified early, before they compromise system efficiency or safety. The combination of precise flow measurement, real-time bubble detection, and digital diagnostics provides significant added value for heat pump manufacturers. SIKA’s flow sensors ensure reliable monitoring and optimization of heat pumps, as well as heating and cooling circuits, both during commissioning and throughout operation.

While Bubble Detection already plays a crucial role in heat pump safety, undetected refrigerant leaks can still occur in rare cases. This is especially critical when using R290 (propane) as a refrigerant, as leaks pose a significant safety risk and must be detected quickly and reliably.

With the SKR290 gas sensor, SIKA provides an additional layer of protection against uncontrolled refrigerant leaks. Utilizing high-precision NDIR technology, the sensor detects even the smallest traces of escaping R290, ensuring timely warnings and enhanced system safety.

The SKR290 meets the strict requirements of IEC 60335-2-40 and provides a low-maintenance solution with a lifespan of over 15 years. Thanks to its compact design and digital interfaces such as RS485 or UART (Modbus), the sensor can be easily integrated into existing systems.

Why Is This Critical?

R290 is a highly flammable refrigerant that is environmentally friendly but requires strict safety measures. Precise gas detection of R290 or R454b refrigerant leaks is crucial for early risk identification and effective system protection. For OEMs designing heat pumps with the highest safety standards, the SKR290 sensor serves as a reliable addition to existing safety mechanisms, ensuring enhanced leak detection and system security.

With the growing demand for energy-efficient and climate-friendly heat pumps, the need for precise measurement technology is becoming increasingly important. The safe use of R290 as a sustainable refrigerant and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic refrigerants requires reliable monitoring mechanisms to ensure maximum efficiency and safety.

SIKA’s combination of Bubble Detection and Gas Detection provides a comprehensive solution that enhances both safety and energy efficiency in heat pumps. By preventing uncontrolled gas bubbles and refrigerant leaks, unnecessary energy losses are minimized, and the environmental footprint of the system is improved. Gas sensors like the SKR290 from SIKA contribute to the development of more climate-friendly heating and cooling systems, ensuring sustainable and reliable operation.

Sustainability is a fundamental part of SIKA’s DNA. With decades of experience in developing high-quality measurement technology, we actively contribute to making industrial applications more efficient and environmentally friendly. Our sensors help to save energy, optimize efficiency, utilize resources responsibly and reduce the CO₂ footprint of heat pump systems. We focus on durable, precise, and low-maintenance solutions that meet both technical and ecological requirements—ensuring sustainable performance for the future.