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In this post, we will conduct a comparison between two types of compressors: one that operates with the refrigerant r600a, and another that uses R290.

Difference between R290 and R600a:

• Let’s start by saying that the units incorporating the r600a compressor and R290 are generally used for lower cooling capacities. R600a is used in refrigeration and freezing and is not employed in air conditioning, while R290 is used in refrigeration, freezing, air conditioning, and even in heat pumps.
• As these units typically possess lower refrigeration power, this allows for concentrating a lesser quantity of r600a and R290, thus compensating for their flammability.
• Due to these flammability characteristics, it is especially recommended to use compressors with r600a and R290 in new equipment specifically designed for this type of gas.
• In terms of the molecules of the refrigerants, R290, in its vapor state, is almost three times heavier than r600a.
• This implies that, with a slight volume of gas passing through the compressor, several grams of R290 will be transported compared to the compressor with r600a.
• Although R290 is slightly more potent in terms of cooling compared to r600a, the greater amount of grams passing through the R290 compressor is the aspect that makes the biggest difference between the two gases.
• In contrast, r600a is less dense, resulting in a lower flow of grams through the compressor.
• A compressor using r600a handles fewer grams of gas per unit volume compared to the R290 compressor. Thus, to equalize the R290 compressor, an increase in displacement is necessary. This is why the r600a compressor tends to be larger in terms of volume, compared to an R290 compressor with the same cooling capacity.
• Regarding oil compatibility, both r600a and R290 are compatible with mineral oil, alkylbenzene, and polyolester oil (POE).
• Compressors using r600a and R290 lead to different system designs due to the varying volumetric flows required for the same cooling needs.
• The system using an R290 compressor is more efficient in terms of consumption compared to r600a for the same cooling capacity. In other words, R290 has a higher coefficient of performance (COP).
• Regarding the temperature at the compressor outlet, it is observed that the discharge temperature of R290 is much lower than that of r600a, by about 17°C on average.
• Both the r600a and R290 compressors can be charged in either liquid or vapor phase without issues.
• The size of the capillary tube, for the same cooling capacity, is different for the r600a and R290 compressors.
• The operating pressures of both compressors are completely different.

In this post, we will compare two types of compressors: one that operates with R600a refrigerant and another that uses r134a.

https://youtu.be/jPKA6b259gI

Let’s begin by saying that the equipment incorporating the compressor with R600a is used in refrigeration and freezing applications, generally with lower cooling capacities. This allows concentrating a smaller amount of R600a and thus compensating for its flammability.

Due to these flammability characteristics, the use of R600a is especially recommended in new equipment designed specifically for this type of gas.

On the other hand, the compressor that works with r134a, being non-flammable, can be used in a variety of cooling capacities, only in refrigeration and freezing applications.

In terms of refrigerant molecules, r134a, in vapor state, is heavier than R600a.

This means that, with a slight volume step of gas passing through the compressor, several grams of R404a will be transported.

Although r134a is less efficient in terms of cooling compared to R600a, the greater amount of grams passing through the R404a compressor ensures proper cooling of the product.

In contrast, R600a is less dense, resulting in a lower flow of grams through the compressor. However, each gram of R600a has a higher cooling capacity, which compensates for its lower density.

A compressor using R600a handles fewer grams of gas compared to the r134a compressor, but each gram of R600a has a higher cooling capacity than a gram of r134a.

As for oil compatibility, R600a is compatible with mineral oil, alkylbenzene, and polyolester oil, POE, while the r134a compressor only uses POE oil.

The compressor system using R600a gas is more efficient in terms of consumption compared to r134a for the same cooling capacity.

The amount of refrigerant charge needed in grams with r134a to achieve the same cooling effect as R600a is much higher.

As for the temperature at the compressor outlet, it is observed that practically both discharge temperatures are equal.

Both the R600a compressor and the r134a compressor can be charged in both liquid and vapor phases without problems.

The size of the capillary tube for the same cooling capacity of the R600a and r134a compressors is completely different.

The working pressures of both compressors are totally different, with the R600a gas having very low values.

In this video, we will carry out a comparison between two types of compressors: one that operates with the refrigerant R600a, and another that uses R404A.

Let’s begin by saying that equipment incorporating the R600a compressor is used in refrigeration and freezing applications, generally with lower cooling capacities.

This allows for a lower amount of R600a to be concentrated, thus compensating for its flammability.

Due to these flammability characteristics, the use of R600a is especially recommended in new equipment specifically designed for this type of gas.

On the other hand, the compressor that operates with R404A, being non-flammable, can be used in a variety of cooling capacities, only in refrigeration and freezing applications.

In terms of the molecules of refrigerants, R404A, in a vapor state, is heavier than R600a.

This means that with a slight volume flow passing through the compressor, several grams of R404A will be transported.

Although R404A is less potent in terms of cooling compared to R600a, the greater quantity of grams passing through the R404A compressor ensures proper product cooling.

In contrast, R600a is less dense, resulting in a lower flow of grams through the compressor.

However, each gram of R600a possesses a higher cooling power, compensating for its lower density.

A compressor using R600a handles fewer grams of gas compared to the R404A compressor, but each gram of R600a possesses a higher cooling power than a gram of R404A.

Regarding oil compatibility, R600a is compatible with mineral oil, alkylbenzene, and polyolester oil, POE, while the R404A compressor only uses POE oil.

The compressor system using R600a gas is more efficient in terms of consumption compared to R404A, for the same cooling capacity. The amount of refrigerant charge needed in grams with R404A to achieve the same cooling effect as R600a is much higher.

As for the temperature at the compressor outlet, a slightly lower temperature is observed in the R404A compressor compared to the R600a compressor.

This is beneficial for the longevity of the R404A compressor. However, as seen in the graph, the discharge temperature of R600a is also low.

The R600a compressor can be charged in both liquid and vapor phases without issues, while the R404A compressor must be charged in liquid phase.

In this article, we will perform a comparison between two types of compressors: one that operates with R290 refrigerant and another that uses R404A.

https://youtu.be/x3nSbDl2e_E

Let’s start by highlighting that equipment incorporating the R290 compressor is used in refrigeration, freezing, and air conditioning applications, generally with lower cooling capacities. This allows for a smaller amount of R290 to be concentrated, thereby compensating for its flammability.

Due to these flammability characteristics, the use of R290 is particularly recommended in new equipment designed specifically for this type of gas.

On the other hand, the compressor that works with R404A, being non-flammable, can be used in a variety of cooling capacities, but in refrigeration and freezing applications, and not in air conditioning.

In terms of refrigerant molecules, R404A, in vapor state, is heavier than R290. This means that with a slight volume of gas passing through the compressor, several grams of R404A will be transported.

Although R404A is less efficient in terms of cooling compared to R290, the larger amount of grams passing through the R404A compressor ensures proper cooling of the product.

In contrast, R290 is less dense, resulting in a lower flow of grams through the compressor. However, each gram of R290 has a higher cooling capacity, compensating for its lower density.

A compressor using R290 handles fewer grams of gas compared to the R404A compressor, but each gram of R290 has a greater cooling capacity than a gram of R404A.

Regarding oil compatibility, R290 is compatible with mineral oil, alkylbenzene, and polyolester oil (POE), while the R404A compressor only uses POE oil.

The compressor system using R290 gas is more efficient in terms of consumption compared to R404A for the same cooling capacity. The amount of R404A refrigerant needed in grams to achieve the same cooling effect as R290 is higher.

As for the temperature at the compressor outlet, it is slightly lower in the R404A compressor compared to the R290 compressor. This is beneficial for the durability of the R404A compressor; however, as we observe in the graph, the discharge temperature of R290 is also low.

The R290 compressor can be charged in both liquid and vapor phases without issues, while the R404A compressor must be charged in the liquid phase.

On this webpage, we’ll be conducting a comparison between a compressor operating with R290 and a compressor functioning with R22.

https://youtu.be/IV6PyV5FIYE

Let’s start by highlighting that units equipped with an R290 compressor are employed in refrigeration, freezing, and air conditioning applications, typically with low capacity. This design concentrates a small quantity of R290 to mitigate its flammability.

Additionally, due to these flammability conditions, using R290 is particularly recommended in new equipment specifically designed for this gas.

On the contrary, the R22-operated compressor, due to its non-flammable properties, can be used at various cooling capacities and in refrigeration, freezing, and air conditioning applications.

The R22 molecule, in a vapor state, is heavier compared to R290. Consequently, a slight increase in the gas volume passing through the compressor results in the transportation of several grams of R22.

Despite R22 being less efficient in cooling when compared to R290, the greater volume of grams moving through the compressor provides sufficient cooling for the product.

In contrast, R290 is less dense, resulting in a lower flow of R290 grams through the compressor. Nevertheless, each gram of R290 boasts greater cooling power, compensating for its lower density.

While an R290 compressor handles fewer grams of this gas, each of these grams possesses more significant cooling power than a gram of R22.

The R290 compressor boasts approximately 90% of the volumetric capacity of the R22 compressor.

R290 is compatible with mineral oil, alkylbenzene, and polyolester oil (POE), while R22 is predominantly used with alkylbenzene and mineral oil.

A system equipped with an R290 gas compressor is more power-efficient compared to R22 for the same cooling capacity.

Approximately twice the amount of R22 in grams is required to achieve the same cooling effect as R290.

When R290 is employed, the temperature at the compressor outlet is notably lower in contrast to the temperature produced when using R22.

Both the R290 compressor and the R22 compressor can be charged in liquid phase or vapor without any issues.

Although R290 and R22 pressures are not identical, they are quite similar. This enables the compressor to accommodate variations in suction and compression when transitioning between the two refrigerants.

We will examine the key points regarding the replacement of R410A refrigerant with R32 gas in a previously operational air conditioning system.

Effect of Replacing R410A Refrigerant with R32 Gas in Compressor:

1. Lubrication

Both R410A and R32 utilize POE oil for lubrication. However, due to their solubility, the POE oil used with R32 tends to have lower viscosity compared to the POE oil used with R410A. Thus, replacing R410A with R32 can, in certain cases, impact lubrication efficiency. The viscosity of the oil within the compressor might be slightly higher than what R32 requires.

2. Amperage

The compressor’s electrical current consumption, or amperage, will be affected by the switch from R410A to R32. Ideally, maintaining the nominal electrical consumption of the compressor, representing the equipment’s characteristics when operating with R410A, is desirable.

Studies have shown that to achieve this nominal consumption value, the system should be charged with only 90% of the specified R410A weight. A charge greater than 90% could lead to an elevated electrical consumption above nominal levels, resulting in abnormal compressor heating and reduced equipment lifespan.

This is because the transition to R32 leads to an increase in the refrigerant’s mass flow rate, resulting in higher discharge pressure. This higher discharge pressure causes an increase in electrical current, and thus, power input.

3. Cooling Capacity

The cooling capacity provided by the compressor will also be impacted by the change from R410A to R32. For instance, considering a 90% load in grams compared to the R410A load, there will be a roughly 10% reduction in cooling capacity. In the graph example, cooling capacity drops from 2.4 kilowatts to 2.2 kilowatts.

Similarly, a 95% load compared to the R410A load leads to a ~5% increase in cooling capacity, but with higher-than-nominal electrical current consumption.

At a 100% load compared to the R410A load, the cooling capacity remains the same as the original equipment, but with higher-than-nominal electrical current consumption.

For a 105% load compared to the R410A load, there’s around a 5% decrease in cooling capacity, with higher-than-nominal electrical current consumption.

4. Discharge Temperature

With this transition, the refrigerant’s temperature at the compressor’s outlet will notably increase, potentially affecting the compressor’s lifespan.

5. Safety

For safety reasons, it’s not recommended to switch from R410A to R32 without manufacturer authorization, even though R32 is slightly flammable.

https://youtu.be/z3Pg_nJma-I

Here, we present 14 compelling reasons to steer clear of these unfamiliar blends and refrain from introducing any gas other than R22 into the system.

• It can lead to a reduction in cooling capacity.
• It might result in a loss of efficiency, leading to increased electricity consumption. Consequently, this can lead to a rise in the average compressor temperature, impacting the lubricant and the machine’s lifespan.
• There’s a possibility that the discharge temperature of the mixture at the compressor’s outlet will be higher than normal.
• Depending on the blend, issues with lubrication might arise.
• For instance, the combination of gases like R22 and R417A can lead to unpredictable pressures and temperatures, thus negatively impacting efficiency and durability.
• The unpredictability of pressures, temperatures, and the loss of oil return could potentially harm the system.
• Excessive slippage might occur in the resulting blend. Remember, slippage refers to the increase in refrigerant temperature, as observed in the evaporator, for example.
• A high slip value, such as in the evaporator, could result in very high temperatures at its outlet, thereby affecting the cooling process.
• In cases where the mixture has a high slip value, the temperature at the evaporator’s outlet might become excessively high. This could consequently result in a compressor suction temperature above the normal range.
• Even with slight variations in thermal loads, the new mixture could trigger freezing in the evaporator.
• If the system employs pressure switches, abnormal pressures could activate these control devices.
• Some substitutes aren’t compatible with the mineral oil traditionally used with R22, such as R407C, which impacts oil return.
• If the equipment integrates a thermostatic expansion valve, its operation might be compromised as the superheat value measured by the bulb or a sensor becomes unpredictable.
• The environmental impact should not be ignored. Blends affect the atmosphere and the environment. While not illegal, irresponsible usage contributes to environmental harm.

In essence, it’s crucial to avoid preparing refrigerant blends with R22. Each of these points demonstrates that responsible choices and adherence to safe practices are imperative for optimal performance and to safeguard both the equipment and the environment.

We will explore the differences between R22 gas and R422 refrigerant. Let’s get started!

What’s the Difference Between R22 and R422 Gases Used in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration?

https://youtu.be/F-JEWguBXvg

• First of all, it’s important to highlight that R22 and R422 are two completely different gases. In fact, R422 has been specifically designed to replace R22 due to the issues caused by R22 to the ozone layer, whereas R422 does not present this problem.
• R22 is a pure gas composed of a single component, while the refrigerants in the R422 family are formed by several components, such as refrigerant R125, refrigerant R134a, and isobutane gas R600.
• Furthermore, while R22 has only one variant, there are several types of refrigerant gases in the R422 family, such as R422A, R422B, R422C, R422D, and R422E.
• Although the gases in the R422 family have the same components, they vary in their proportions’ percentages.
• It’s important to note that R22 can be charged either in liquid or gaseous phase, while the gases in the R422 family must be charged only in liquid phase.
• Within the R422 family, the most recommended gas to replace R22 in air conditioning systems is R422D.
• Additionally, in lower-temperature applications, the R422A refrigerant is widely used as a substitute for R22.
• Both R22 and gases in the R422 family are non-flammable and non-toxic, classified as A1 in terms of safety and belong to group L1.
• These refrigerants are compatible with a variety of lubricants, including mineral oil MO, alkylbenzene oil AB, and polyol ester oil POE.
• However, gases in the R422 family generally have a high temperature glide, meaning their temperature changes during evaporation and condensation.
• In terms of cooling capacity, the R422 family tends to be slightly lower than that of R22, usually with less than a 5% difference.
• In some cases, using gases from the R422 family may require adjusting or regulating the expansion valve.
• A notable difference between R22 and the R422 family is that the discharge temperature at the compressor outlet is lower in R422 gases. This extends the lifespan of the oil and compressor.
• Refrigerants in the R422 family are also known by other names, such as Freon, MO 79, MO 49, MO 29, among others.
• However, not everything is perfect with the R422 family, as they have a relatively high global warming potential (GWP) due to the presence of component R125.

The Capillary for R410A is primarily utilized in air conditioning systems.

These are the 6 main Recommendations for selecting the dimensions of the capillary tube in an air conditioner that operates with R410A.

1. The performance of capillary tubes in the air conditioner depends on both their length and diameter, as these factors determine their total restriction.
   
2. It is essential to consider that a change in diameter, even by a percentage, can impact the flow more significantly than an equal change in tube length.
   
3. Flow restriction can also be adjusted through tube length. When the tube is longer, the flow becomes slower. However, it is crucial to avoid excessively long lengths, as increasing restriction and excessively reducing flow can be uneconomical and inefficient.
   
4. On the other hand, reducing the tube length gradually increases the flow until reaching a critical point, where each further reduction in length causes a faster increase in flow rate.
   
5. It’s important to note that, at the point where the tube is very short, small changes in length can generate significant increases in flow. At this stage, the tube length no longer significantly affects the flow, and the tube acts more like an orifice than a capillary.
   
6. For optimal operation and to avoid issues, it is recommended to maintain the tube length within a range of 5 to 16 feet (approximately 1.5 to 4.9 meters). While there are exceptions to this general rule, in most cases, staying within this range will be beneficial for the daily operation of the air conditioner.

In the following tables, we have the capillary measurements, with diameter in inches and length in meters, for the most common cooling capacities, in BTUs per hour.

D/L in/m	0.047 in	0.049 in	0.055 in	0.059 in	0.063 in	0.071 in	0.079 in	0.087 in
8000 BTU/H	0.3959 m	0.5078 m	1.006 m	1.505 m	2.169 m	4.091 m
12000 BTU/H	0.2033 m	0.2438 m	0.4583 m	0.6953 m	1.025 m	2.041 m	3.646 m	6.012 m
18000 BTU/H			0.2097 m	0.2568 m	0.3472 m	0.6855 m	1.295 m	2.267 m
24000 BTU/H					0.2479 m	0.3682 m	0.6588 m	1.17 m

36000 BTU/H

DIAMETRO: 0.098 IN LARGO: 0.9151

Alarm 10 Thermo King can be described in the following table:

Alarm 10 Thermo King Color: Red Immediate

Action Required: Yes High compressor discharge pressure (or temperature) If the unit shuts down, repair immediately. Otherwise, report the alarm at the end of the day. Alarm

Thermoking Fault Code 10:

This alarm is related to higher than normal discharge pressure.

• If the fan is belt-driven, check its condition and tension.
• Inspect the fan gearbox for jammed or worn bearings.
• For electric condenser fan, verify voltage supply and motor behavior.
• Check for a defective 12-volt battery.
• A typical sign of a worn battery is if the unit loses power even before starting the engine.
• Inspect for a faulty High-Pressure Cutout (HPCO) switch. HPCO switch is located on top of the compressor.
• If the unit still doesn’t start, check HPCO switch voltage. Perform a voltage drop test to check for an open circuit. Trace the wiring circuit and verify fuses or switches connected to the circuit.

What to Do with Alarm 10 Thermoking?

In the following video prepared by CST Chilling Systems Training, some recommendations related to Alarm 10 Thermoking are presented:

• Operate the unit in Cooling mode and check discharge and suction gauge readings.
• If the system has a vapor injection for compressor cooling, operate the vapor injection valve to determine if it activates.
• Check the resistance of the compressor discharge sensor.
• The resistance in many Thermo King models should be approximately 86 kilohms at 25°C (77°F).
• However, check your equipment’s sensor type.
• Verify the discharge line temperature using a separate digital thermometer and compare it with the High-Pressure Temperature value displayed in the menu.
• The unit will operate normally without the compressor sensor. However, the compressor’s high-temperature protection from the controller will not be active.

High-Pressure Cutout Switch (Alarm 17):

Thermo King High-Pressure Compressor Switches The High-Pressure Cutout Switch (2) is located on the compressor discharge service valve.

If the discharge pressure becomes too high, the switch opens the compressor contactor’s ground circuit.

The compressor stops immediately.

Evaporator and condenser fans continue to operate normally.

The controller detects that a high-pressure cutout switch or internal protector has been activated.

Verification of the condenser fan is performed.