ACtion Magazine - May 2017 - 26

Global Service Horizons

Lubricant Charges and Chemical Issues

Bryan Schaeber

Unlike R-134a, R-1234yf contains at least one reactive double bond between carbon atoms, which enables a
shorter atmospheric life. But keeping R-1234yf stable and
durable inside MVAC systems requires special lubricants
and additives. Atkinson shared the following issues:
* The industry lacks an industry lubricant certification standard - "To address this, SAE International is currently attempting to establish
an industry lubricant certification standard."
* Many service facilities are not providing the
correct refrigerant-lubricant balance during service - Current MVAC systems must have the
correct type and amount refrigerant and lubricant; hence, neither refrigeration nor lubricant
charge "top off" service is advisable. Having the
proper amount of both lubricant and refrigerant
is the only way to know that MVAC system requirements are met.
* The industry needs a recommended best
practice to ensure the correct lubricant charge
is installed - "Use only the vehicle OEM's rec-

ommended lubricant (i.e. correct type of PAG
or POE, as well as viscosity). To assure proper
MVAC system lubricant balance, do not put the
entire fill charge of oil into the compressor. Instead, split the lubricant between the compressor, condenser inlet and evaporator inlet."
* There have been some instances of systems
being charged with the wrong lubricants and
additives - "R-1234yf PAG lubricants and additives will work with R-134a refrigerant systems. But R-134a PAG lubricants and additives
are not compatible or recommended for use with
R-1234yf systems. This is because R-1234yf requires a more stringent additive formulation.
R-134a lubricants are not designed to prevent
breakdown of R-1234yf. Be aware that only a
limited number of aftermarket lubricant suppliers meet the R-1234yf PAG lubricant and additive specifications.
* POE and PVE refrigerant oils are not always
compatible with seal materials in the fluid intake and release valve mechanisms in MVAC

A number of new component products were introduced at the Trade Show (clockwise from top left):
* Gates Corp.'s new Variable Valve Timing Solenoids precisely control the ﬂow of pressurized oil to and from the camshaft actuator
to restore vehicle variable valve timing to proper operation and performance.
* Omega Environmental Technologies' new line of replacement electrical actuators provide an installer-friendly program for Audi/
VW, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, and Toyota applications.
* NetMotor's IP68 Electric Cooling Fans and Brushless Blowers are ISO9001 certiﬁed. They deliver efﬁcient, durable and low noise
performance. Air ﬂow, air pressure, speed and voltage can be customized to suit your application.
* The Cooling Fan Control Modules & Solutions Kit from Gates Corp. ensure an exact ﬁt and allows damaged wire harnesses to be
easily replaced without having to change the complete electric cooling fan.
* Coyote International introduced a new 4" La Mesa Louver with a 2" Hose Adapter designed for easy installation in Defrost and
Heater applications, the louver's grille is available ﬁxed or with 360 degree rotation.
* T/CCI introduced a new line of Air Brake Compressors designed for heavy-duty applications. The 10 models in the line provide
superior efﬁciency, longevity, and cost 10-25% less than remanufactured alternatives.

ACTION * May 2017

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of ACtion Magazine - May 2017