What Happened to the Legacy Desktop Tools?
The legacy free desktop tools were among the most widely used for refrigeration cycle simulation. Originally developed by a Technical University of Denmark (DTU), it was a staple for HVAC&R engineers, students, and researchers throughout the 2000s and early 2010s.
However, most of these tools have not been maintained since 2018. They were built for Windows, and it has known compatibility issues on Windows 10 and Windows 11. There is no Mac or Linux version, and no mobile access. With the rapid phase-down of HFC refrigerants under the Kigali Amendment and new EPA regulations, a tool that can't keep up with modern refrigerant data is no longer viable.
Key Problems with Legacy Desktop Tools in 2026
- Not updated since 2018 — no support for modern refrigerants like R-1234yf, R-454B, R-448A
- Windows-only — doesn't work on Mac, Linux, or mobile devices
- Local installation required — no cloud access, no collaboration features
- No refrigerant comparison — you can't easily compare COP across refrigerants
- No AI or smart features — no cycle diagnosis, no optimization suggestions
- No cloud sync — losing your laptop means losing your calculation history
Why Evodelta Is the Modern Alternative
Evodelta was built from the ground up as a cloud-native alternative to the legacy desktop tools for the modern refrigeration engineer. It provides the same core functionality — standard vapor compression cycle analysis, P-h and T-s diagrams, state point calculations — but in a web-based format that works instantly on any device.
What Makes Evodelta Different
- Works in any browser — Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, or even your iPad.
- Actively maintained — regularly updated with new refrigerants, features, and regulatory data.
- No installation required — open your browser, start calculating immediately.
- Refrigerant comparison built-in — compare COP, GWP, and performance across multiple refrigerants side by side.
- Built-in cycle diagnostics — flags out-of-range conditions like excess superheat or subcooling.
- Cloud-synced calculation history — access your work from any device, any time.
- Professional PDF reports — generate executive-ready reports with one click.
- Cascade cycle support — analyze two-stage systems for ultra-low temperature applications.
Feature Comparison: Legacy Desktop Tools vs Evodelta
| Feature | Legacy Desktop Tools | Evodelta |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Windows only | Any browser (Win/Mac/Linux/Mobile) |
| Last Updated | 2018 (no longer maintained) | Actively maintained (2026) |
| Installation | Desktop install required | Works instantly in browser |
| Standard Cycle Analysis | ✓ | ✓ |
| P-h & T-s Diagrams | ✓ | ✓ |
| Refrigerant Comparison | ✗ | ✓ Built-in comparison tool |
| Cascade Cycle Analysis | ✓ | ✓ |
| AI Cycle Diagnosis | ✗ | ✓ |
| Cloud Sync | ✗ | ✓ |
| Professional PDF Reports | ✗ | ✓ |
| Modern Refrigerants | Limited (pre-2018 data) | R-1234yf, R-454B, R-32, and more |
| Cost | Free | Free (with Pro options) |
How to Get Started
Switching from the legacy desktop tools to Evodelta takes seconds. There's nothing to download or install:
- Create a free account at evodelta-evo.netlify.app/signup
- Choose your cycle type — standard vapor compression cycle, cascade, or refrigerant comparison
- Enter your operating conditions — evaporation temperature, condensation temperature, superheat, subcooling
- View results instantly — COP, cooling capacity, compressor work, P-h and T-s diagrams
Ready to Switch?
Start free — no credit card required, and the full 14-day Pro trial is included.
Start Free Trial →Keep the Desktop Tool — Or Migrate in One Tab
Nothing to install, works on any machine you log into, and your calculations save to your account. Free tier: 20 calculations a month, no card.
Create a Free Account →See Plans — Pro $29/mo for the first 100
Free tier: 20 calculations a month, no card. Pro is $29/month for the first 100 customers.