What type of refrigeration oil should I use for my screw compressor?

Screw compressors typically require POE (Polyol Ester) oils for HFC refrigerants like R134a and R407C, or mineral oils for HCFC systems like R22. The viscosity grade (usually ISO VG 32-68) depends on the compressor manufacturer's specifications. Brands like Bitzer recommend BSE series POE oils, while FUSHENG systems often use mineral oil formulations.

What is the difference between POE and mineral refrigeration oil?

POE (Polyol Ester) oils are synthetic lubricants designed for HFC refrigerants (R134a, R404A, R407C, R410A) and are hygroscopic, requiring careful moisture control. Mineral oils (MO) are petroleum-based, used with CFC and HCFC refrigerants (R22, R502), and are less expensive but incompatible with modern HFC systems. POE oils offer better thermal stability and miscibility with newer refrigerants.

How do I select the right refrigeration oil for a centrifugal chiller?

For centrifugal chillers, select oil based on the OEM specification (e.g., Trane OIL00037, York PureOil S), the refrigerant type (R123 low-pressure or R134a medium-pressure), and the required viscosity grade. Most modern centrifugal chillers use POE oils with ISO VG 32-68. Always verify compatibility with the chiller manufacturer's technical bulletin and ensure the oil meets the required pour point for your operating conditions.

R423A Refrigerant Gas 11.3KG (25LBS),HFC Refrigerants

Description

Introduction:

R423A refrigerant is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) option with zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) used to retrofit R-12 equipment. Because R-12 is a high-ODP chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) refrigerant, it is being phased out per the Montreal Protocol. R423A is an excellent alternative that offers comparable cooling characteristics, discharge temperature, and performance to R-12 used in centrifugal chillers.

Original equipment manufacturers (OEM) have mandated changing lubricants to a polyolester (POE) oil for most system retrofits. Because R423A tolerates high residual levels of mineral oil in POE, systems don't require flushing after switching lubricants.

R423A offers a number of benefits when used in centrifugal chillers.

This nonflammable refrigerant:

Carries an ASHRAE A1 safety classification
Avoids expensive engineering changes
Extends the life of existing chiller equipment
Requires less investment because current refrigerant does not need to be removed and equipment can be topped off/recharged with R423A during service

Specification:

Name	1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane, 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane.
Model	R423A, HFC-423A, R-423A,Freon-423A
Classification	Hydroflourocarbon Refrigerant Blend
Formula	CF3CH2F,C3HF7
Cas No.	R134a: 811-97-2, R227EA: 431-89-0
Replacement for	HCFC R-12

Application:

A long-term non-ozone depleting replacement for R-12 in low- and medium-temperature commercial refrigeration systems. Suitable for direct expansion evaporators. Do not use in systems that employ flooded evaporators. For new equipment and retrofits.