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Experimental analysis of the performance of a reciprocating compressor working with propane and PAG oil.

Number: 1218

Author(s) : AZZOLIN M., CONTE R., SERESIN S., DE GIOIA CARABELLESE C., MASTRAPASQUA M., DEL COL D.

Summary

Propane is gaining popularity as a refrigerant in the HVAC industry due to its very low global warming potential compared to the traditional refrigerants used in the sector. The use of propane poses several challenges. One of these – although not the main one – regards the proper lubricant to be used with propane, and in particular, the solubility of propane in the lubricant oil and the solutions that can be adopted to achieve high compressor performance. In fact, the high solubility of the refrigerant in the oil can cause a reduction in the viscosity of the oil, which may affect the lubricity and the sealing function of the lubricant. This research examines the performance of a semi-hermetic reciprocating compressor using propane and PAG oil when varying the operating conditions and, in particular, the superheating at the suction of the compressor. The results show that the use of PAG oil ensures higher performance and proper lubrication with lower superheating compared to mineral oil. A superheating value equal to 5 K can be considered as a reference when using PAG oil. The experimental results are then used to validate a numerical model for the calculation of the mass flow rate and the performance of reciprocating compressors.

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Pages: 11 p.

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Details

  • Original title: Experimental analysis of the performance of a reciprocating compressor working with propane and PAG oil.
  • Record ID : 30032727
  • Languages: English
  • Source: 16th IIR-Gustav Lorentzen Conference on Natural Refrigerants (GL2024). Proceedings. University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA, August 11-14 2024
  • Publication date: 2024/08
  • DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18462/iir.gl2024.1218

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