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A low-GWP refrigerant is not the only factor that affects a system’s energy efficiency.
Founded in 1945, HRS specialises in rebuilding all makes of...
The Montreal Protocol for the protection of the ozone layer prohibits the use of CFCs and HCFCs and the Kyoto Protocol aims to reduce global warming and establishes commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
PAO, PAG OR POE? How do you choose the right lubricant for each different type of compressor?
Industrial and commercial facilities using carbon dioxide (CO2, R-744) are experiencing strong growth in Europe. The main benefits of using this “natural” fluid are the strong better cooling capacity for relatively low installed compressor power, an Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) of 0, and a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1. The low ODP and GWP values can make this an “ideal” fluid for many users. However, R-744 presents technological challenges in its implementation and maintenance and cannot be used for all applications. Let us review this technology with Jean-Yves Clairé, a Lubrication Engineer at ExxonMobil.
The importance of refrigeration to meet the global requirements of the food chain, health care sectors or even the automotive industry has never been so great. Environmental concerns, upheld in particular by the Montreal and Kyoto protocols, have led to a change of technology in terms of refrigerants for refrigeration output by compression, which has had an impact on the choice of lubricants.
A compression refrigerator produces cooling at constant pressure by evaporation of a refrigerant in the liquid state, followed by compression and condensation of the fluid to transform it from vapour to the liquid state. It uses a compressor which in most cases must be lubricated. Proper operation and optimum performance are ensured by choosing fluids and oils that are compatible with the machines, types of evaporators (direct or embedded expansion system) and the desired operating conditions.The refrigerating circuit is subject to pressure, temperature and expansion phenomena which requires perfect compatibility between oil and refrigerant.