RACA Journal August 2020 | Page 25

Feature Continued from page 21 investment while selecting the compressor,” advises Kannan. From an engineer’s perspective, he recommends that the engineer needs to observe the operating parameters like suction pressure, discharge pressure, suction temperature, discharge temperature, superheat, subcooling and power consumption. Feed these parameters to the software to compare the capacity and the power consumption. He needs to also look at the possibilities of increasing the capacity by changing these parameters. He needs to also observe vibration, abnormal noise, oil level in the compressor sight glass and the net oil pressure to understand the health of the compressor. “Proper usage of mounting grommets and providing discharge / suction loops/vibrobsorbers are necessary to avoid leakages, reduce sound and vibration from the condensing unit. The cleanliness of the system plays vital role for the reliability of the compressor and the system. All the contaminants like air, moisture and other solid contaminants should be completely removed from the system during the installation process. Also, there is a need to ensure that refrigerant piping recommendations are followed for the proper oil return,” he adds. How to get the most out of your compressor: • Application • Refrigerant • Capacity required at operating conditions • Power supply • Modulation requirements • Always follow manufacturer’s recommendations. • Use only authorised refrigerant and oil for the given compressor. Source: Emerson REFERENCES: 1. Airconditioning Systems 2. Contributions from Emerson and Danfoss RACA Danfoss Compressor technology has undergone significant developments in the last hundred years. www.hvacronline.co.za RACA Journal I August 2020 23