Lubricants for hydrocarbon heat pumps
As the global push for low-carbon technologies accelerates, hydrocarbon heat pumps are rapidly gaining attention as a high-efficiency, climate-friendly alternative to traditional HVAC systems. Utilizing natural refrigerants like propane (R290), isobutane (R600a) and pentane (R601), these systems offer a compelling combination of environmental performance and energy savings. Hydrocarbons are categorized as “natural refrigerants” with extremely […]
Requirements for an Air Compressor Lubricant
Air compressors are a demanding application for any lubricant. The lubricant is subjected to high temperatures, contaminants, and often harsh environmental conditions. Air compressor lubricants must handle these tough conditions while providing the following critical functions. Protection Against Wear and Friction Like any lubricant, air compressor oil protects against wear and friction by separating moving […]
How to determine the viscosity of an oil in a compressor.
Viscosity and classification of Viscosity Grades Viscosity is the most important characteristic of an oil. Viscosity can be described as the measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow. Typically industrial lubricants are classified according to their kinematic viscosity at 40 °C into ISO viscosity grades. The most common unit of kinematic viscosity is mm2/s or […]
The Impact of Refrigerants on Lubricants
Understanding the Impact of Refrigerants on Lubricants Refrigerants play a crucial role in influencing the properties of lubricants in refrigeration systems. When refrigerants are under pressure, they can dissolve into lubricants, which may lead to significant changes in the lubricant’s behavior. How Refrigerants Affect Viscosity When refrigerants dissolve in lubricants, they can reduce the viscosity, […]
Understanding Polyalkylene Glycols (PAG)
Just as every Scotch is a whiskey, but not every whiskey is a Scotch, the same applies to polyalkylene glycol (PAG) oils. PAGs come in various chemistries, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common type is fully based on propylene oxide, often referred to as water-insoluble PAG (WI-PAG). This means that while […]
