C. Ciantar et al., The influence of POE and PVE lubricant blends within hermetic refrigerating compressors operating with HFC-134a refrigerant, WEAR, 241(1), 2000, pp. 53-64
Hydrofluorocarbons are alternative refrigerants receiving attention for use
in domestic refrigerating systems. New synthetic lubricants are required w
ith these working fluids to ensure lubricant suitability. The objective of
this experimental investigation is to compare the tribological performance
of the newly developed polyvinylether (PVE) synthetic lubricant to its poly
ol ester (POE) counter-part Experimental setups were varied using actual he
rmetically sealed refrigerating compressors. This investigation included an
evaluation of the conforming contact between the small end of the connecti
ng rod and the gudgeon pin. This was done in conjunction with observations
of the large end of the connecting rod as well as the compressor valve plat
es. Observations were carried out using light microscopy, scanning electron
microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) micro-analysis and X-ray p
hotoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The extent of the surface damage
observed varied with the type of lubricant and the operating pressures. (C)
2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.