POE Oils for R-410a vs R-134a/R-12

[JHZR2]

Are these oils the same? POE is readily available for R-12 and R-134a systems, but I dont see it as much for the R-410a systems.

Im really just wanting a little to tighten some flares on a lineset, but stocking one oil that I can use to top up oil in auto AC systems would be good, since I know that I have at least one receiver dryer to replace, and who knows what the future brings...

So having only one POE that I can use for a few things would be optimal...

 

[MolaKule]

It appears Hatco's Everest AutoAC series would be the one but which viscosity for your app.?


Hatco Auto AC

 

[yonyon]

That web site specifically states that the 100 is compatible with the R-410a. If I recall correctly, GM used to recommend using ISO 100 ester for all retrofits of R-12 to R134a on their cars. Maybe that one would work. It also has this:
Quote:
Technical Support

203-714-8674 - Naugatuck, CT
732-738-3526 - Fords, NJ

 

[MolaKule]

Not necessarily. Chemtura/Hatco/Everest has various viscosity POE's for R410:


Various ISO Refrigerant Fluids

 

[Tom NJ]

Originally Posted By: JHZR2
Are these oils the same? POE is readily available for R-12 and R-134a systems, but I dont see it as much for the R-410a systems.

Im really just wanting a little to tighten some flares on a lineset, but stocking one oil that I can use to top up oil in auto AC systems would be good, since I know that I have at least one receiver dryer to replace, and who knows what the future brings...

So having only one POE that I can use for a few things would be optimal...



Higher viscosity POEs are generally used for R-410a systems, but the ester chemistry is similar. POEs are the preferred oil for both R-134a and R-410a systems.

Tom NJ

 

[JHZR2]

Auto AC typically took a 500-550 SUS viscosity dewaxed mineral oil back in the r-12 days.

What interests me is POEs apparent compatibility with both mineral oil as well as R-12, and of course r-420a for stationary applications.

The viscosity is a good point... 550 SUS is roughly ISO 100, but not sure what r-410 takes.

Doesn't matter much though -I'm not adding lubricant to the 410 system, just want compatibility if some gets in. Don't want to be creating acids or byproducts if some come in.

 

[Tom NJ]

POEs are generally universally compatible with refrigerants and lubricants, which is why they are used in systems where cross contamination with unknown residual refrigerants and lubricants is possible.

Tom NJ

 

[camelCase]

POEs also work a lot better with the refigerants in industrial systems. It's amazing what a switch to a good POE will do for a system that's running something inferior. Although there are certain POE blends that do well in other unique refrigeration applications like low-temp ammonia systems. Their solubility and miscibility is a lot better with them. I've seen some guys continue to try to run a hydrocarbon oil on a retrofit and they had major separation issues... Similar stuff happens with flooded evap guys for things like chillers.

From what I've seen, a lot of guys run PAGs in auto-a/c systems. POEs are really expensive and usually the industrial guys stick to them.

R410a is a blend with R134a in it, so if an oil works for one it will work for the other. Do what fits your budget best.