New High Efficiency R-134a Compressor

Over the last thirty years, few changes have taken place in reciprocating refrigeration and freezer hermetic· compressors. Of course there have been design improvements and many new applications, but the basics have stayed the same. DOE requirements have brought new energy standards for 1993 and, with most of that work behind them, manufacturers of white goods are concentrating on alternate refrigerant conversions and new energy questions for 1994 and beyond. Since 1988 the development of hermetic compressor conversions and a new compressor design evolved through many stages from the chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) R·12 refrigerant to the hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) R·134a. Steps in the analysis and development process will be outlined to show how a once common energy efficiency range of 4.04.4 escalated to above 5.5 BTUjWatt Hour (Energy Efficiency Ratio= EER). Miscibility and solubility with R-134a and the lubricant of choice will be explored. Compatibility with compressor materials, lubricity and stability will be examined in order to better see chemically, mechanically, and thermodynamically the results of this, endeavor.