How to Select a Refrigeration Lubricant

This presentation provides an overview of the lubrication requirements for various different refrigeration systems and will provide recommendations on the most appropriate lubricant chemistry and specification. There are many different types of refrigeration systems and each one has its different lubrication requirements. The goal of this presentation is to review the lubrication requirements of R-717, R-744, halocarbon, and hydrocarbon refrigeration systems. Each of these systems has their own distinct lubrication needs and challenges.

A lubricant that is beneficial in one refrigeration system could cause significant performance problems in another. The presentation begins by providing an overview of the basic concepts of lubrication, including an overview of key properties like lubricity, viscosity, viscosity index, pour point, oxidation and volatility. This section serves as an introduction to key phrases and concepts that will be further discussed throughout the presentation.

The next section details how dissolved refrigerants effect the physical properties of lubricants, and how these changes effect the performance of the oil as well as the performance of the refrigeration system. The presentation then provides a brief overview of various different lubricant chemistries (Naphthenic, paraffinic, alkyl benzene, PAO, POE, PAG) and the advantages and disadvantages of each chemistry with the following refrigerant chemistry groups. • R-717 • R-744 • HFC/HFO • Hydrocarbon refrigerants In addition to laboratory test data, real life examples will also be given for each refrigerant group. The presentation will also provide the audience with key questions to ask their lubricant provide and or contractor.