The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers is soliciting bids for its first project in the flammable refrigerants research program through Nov. 14.

The project, “Flammable Refrigerants Post-Ignition Simulation and Risk Assessment Update,” is the first of three projects being conducted by ASHRAE through a multimillion-dollar research program that will establish more fact-based information on the properties, uses, safety and environmental impacts of flammable refrigerants.

“ASHRAE is pleased to kick off its first project in this program,” said ASHRAE President Tim Wentz. “The rapidity with which technology advances building equipment and systems is creating challenges for our industry. Nowhere is this more evident than in dealing with refrigerants. This research is part of our push to harness and adapt new technologies to ensure a more sustainable future.”

The research is part of a $5.8 million program funded by ASHRAE, the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute, the U.S. Department of Energy, the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, the California Air Resources Board, and Johnson Controls.

The program includes eight research projects that are expected to be completed during 2017. The findings, which should be available by the end of 2017, will be used to update standards and codes that will govern the safe use of flammable refrigerants.

Those interested in the first ASHRAE project can visit www.ashrae.org/research.