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A review of lubrication and preformance issues in refrigeration systems using an HFC (R-134a) refrigerant

Journal Article · · Lubrication Engineering
OSTI ID:245122
; ; ;  [1]
  1. Witco Corporation, Oakland, NJ (United States)
It has been considered critical for refrigerant and compressor lubricant to be miscible with each other over part of the range of operating conditions of refrigerant systems. Adequate miscibility, many believe, provides oil return to the compressor. Presently, synthetic polyol esters have been selected for use with HFC refrigerants, such as R-134a, which are considered appropriate alternatives to CFCs. The authors will review the mechanical issues in miscible vs non-miscible naphthenic hydrocarbon oil-based lubricants. Extensive lab, test stand and cabinet testing has been conducted and data will be presented which show responsible and predictable performance based on the chemical and physical properties of the lubricant and refrigerant. Many non-miscible systems show satisfactory performance with the proper selection of lubricant, additives and mechanical configuration. 3 refs., 3 figs., 5 tabs.
OSTI ID:
245122
Journal Information:
Lubrication Engineering, Journal Name: Lubrication Engineering Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 52; ISSN LUENAG; ISSN 0024-7154
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English