Sensata Technologies has launched the R290 P+T Sensor, a combined pressure and temperature sensor designed for electrified vehicle thermal management systems that run on propane.
Sensata says automakers are evaluating refrigerants that have low global warming potential (GWP) and no per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Propane carries no fluorine in its molecule, which keeps it clear of the PFAS question altogether. It is also flammable, classified A3, and its leakage requirements are strict enough to change how the surrounding thermal system has to be designed.
A control system needs accurate pressure and temperature data to track refrigerant conditions, run HVAC and heat pump loops and meet leakage, safety and regulatory requirements. Cabin heating and battery conditioning draw from the traction pack, so heat pump efficiency shows up directly in winter range.
The integrated part improves system control and diagnostics in complex EV thermal architectures, Sensata says. Superheat and subcooling are each worked out by comparing a measured temperature against the saturation temperature implied by the pressure at that point in the circuit, which is why both readings are wanted from the same location.
The company describes the design as leakage-optimized and says it helps minimize refrigerant loss over the vehicle lifetime. Sensata’s product page lists accuracy better than 1% of full scale within the core range, fast temperature response and a choice of analog, LIN or SENT output.
The sensor is intended for automotive air conditioning and thermal management systems in BEVs, PHEVs and other electrified platforms using R290 refrigerant.
Source: Sensata Technologies
