R22 compressor

Types of R22 compressors

The refrigerant R22, otherwise known as hydrochloroforomethane, is a compound that used to be prevalent in air conditioning units. The substance was generally pumped into a machine called a compressor to assist in the process of condensing gas and making it into a liquid. R22 compressors are therefore storage and moving units for R22 refrigerant.

There are two principal forms that an R22 compressor can manifest in, namely, a scroll compressor or a piston compressor.

• A scroll compressor functions by using two interleaved scroll pieces that move the refrigerant around the air conditioning unit. The fixed scroll is stationary, meaning it stays in place, while the orbiting scroll rotates in circular motions, pushing the refrigerant around the unit to perform its function of cooling air. These types of R22 compressors are generally more compact and lightweight.
• Also known as reciprocating compressors, piston compressors operate by utilizing several pistons that move the refrigerant in an up and down motion - much like the working process of a car engine. Refrigerant is drawn into the space of the cylinder thanks to the suction valve, where it is then compressed by the reciprocating action of the piston. The pressure of the gas then goes up, and once the gas is squeezed into a certain space, it exits the compressor through the discharge valve. Piston compressors are classified into two main groups - single-stage compressors and two-stage compressors. Two-stage compressors are more efficient in their energy uses, and work as technically better counterparts for refrigerants with higher density such as R410A.

In addition to the aforementioned categories, R22 compressors can also be divided into the following types according to their working methods:

• Rotary Compressors: Rotary R22 compressors are specifically designed to provide a continuous flow of refrigerants to meet the demands of the cooling system. They achieve this by utilizing a power source, typically an electric motor, to drive a set of rotary blades or rollers. These blades/rollers then compress the refrigerant gas, which is subsequently pumped throughout the air conditioning or refrigeration unit to effectuate the cooling process.
• Centrifugal Compressors: The inner workings of centrifugal R22 compressors revolve around a sizable wheel fitted with many vanes or blades. These blades rotate at high speeds, propelling the refrigerant gas in an outward direction. This action leads to an augmentation of pressure within the gas, which then facilitates its movement through the entire system, allowing for efficient refrigeration and air conditioning services.

Specification and maintenance of the R22 compressor

Specification

Some general specifications of R22 compressors are as follows:

• Horsepower :R22 compressors are available in different horsepower ranges. Typically, R22 compressors with 3 to 5 horsepower are widely used in various commercial and industrial applications.
• Cylinders: R22 compressors are available in different cylinder configurations, including single-cylinder and multi-cylinder(usually 2 to 4 cylinders).Single-cylinder compressors are suitable for small-scale cooling needs. Multi-cylinder compressors can provide more powerful cooling capabilities and are suitable for larger spaces or more demanding cooling requirements.
• Speed: Some models of R22 compressors have a variable speed function. Generally, a variable speed compressor has a greater ability to adapt to different usage needs. They can adjust the speed to match the amount of cooling needed, thereby improving energy efficiency.
• Cooling method: R22 compressors mainly adopt the air-cooled and water-cooled(cooling tower) methods. Air-cooled compressors are typically used in outdoor units or environments that are difficult to access cooling water. Water-cooled compressors are suitable for occasions with sufficient cooling water resources and require high cooling efficiency.

Maintenance

• Routine visual inspection: A regular visual inspection can help people notice some potential problems early. People should check the overall appearance of the compressor to see if there are any obvious damages, such as dents or cracks. The compressor's mounting bolts should be checked to ensure they are not loose, which may affect the stability and operation of the compressor. Besides, people should check the surrounding environment of the compressor to see if there are obstacles or sources of heat that may affect its heat dissipation.
• Cleaning: Keeping the exterior of the compressor clean can help maintain its heat dissipation performance. Users can wipe the dust and dirt on the surface of the compressor with a damp cloth. If the compressor is installed at a higher location, users may need to ask professionals to help them clean it up. Also, maintaining proper ventilation around the compressor is essential. Users should remove the dust and debris around the ventilation openings to avoid the situation that the ventilation openings are blocked.
• Pay attention to noise and vibration: R22 compressors usually operate at a constant and smooth speed. If the compressor makes abnormal noises, such as squealing, banging, etc., users should pay attention and find out the reasons as soon as possible. The compressor's noise may change due to some factors, such as the operating environment and the age of use. Users need to monitor the changes and take proper measures if the noise increases suddenly. Besides, users should also pay attention to the vibration of the compressor. If there are abnormal vibrations, users should check the mounting bolts and the ground to see if there are any problems.

Scenarios of R22 compressors

The R22 compressors are used in a variety of applications due to their high efficiency. Here are some usage scenarios.

• Small air conditioners

  R22 compressors are widely used in small air conditioners, such as household air conditioners and window air conditioners. These air conditioners are small, so they require an R22 compressor to provide sufficient cooling power.

• Large air conditioning

  R22 compressors are also commonly used in large central air conditioning systems, such as commercial rooftop units, industrial central air conditioners, etc. These central air conditioners need to handle multiple spaces and large areas of refrigeration, so they need to use R22 compressors with more power and efficiency.

• Refrigerator

  R22 compressors can be found in refrigerators and freezers. They are responsible for circulating coolant in the refrigeration system to keep the interior of the refrigerator at a low temperature to achieve the purpose of preserving food.

• Industrial chiller

  R22 compressors are also widely used in industrial chillers. These chillers are important equipment in industrial production. They provide cooling to cool products, equipment, and production processes. R22 compressors can efficiently reduce the temperature of cooling water or other media.

• Plastic machinery

  More and more plastic machinery, including granulators, blow molding machines, and injection molding machines, use R22 compressors for refrigeration. R22 compressors can maintain the stable operation of equipment by providing cooling for molding and equipment operation.

• Aquaculture

  Aquaculture industries such as fish hatcheries and shrimp farms need to maintain strict temperature control for water. R22 aquatic compressors can help regulate water temperature to provide suitable living conditions for aquatic organisms.

• Vacuum pumps

  Vacuum pumps in laboratories often use R22 compressors. They cool the operating parts and control the equipment's temperature during the extraction of gases or liquids to ensure accurate and reliable experimental results.

How to Choose R22 Compressors

When purchasing R22 compressors for resale, buyers should consider models that serve different target markets. They can start by researching the prevailing market trend to identify the most sought-after compressor models. Additionally, they should look for models with features that clients most likely appreciate. For instance, they should consider the noise level of the compressors, since many end users prefer quiet models. Also, they should think about the ideal contact applications and the proper refrigerants compatibility. In general, the chosen compressors should be capable of functioning effectively with the common refrigerants used in commercial and industrial settings.

Moreover, buyers should get R22 AC compressors with various capacities to cater to diverse end user needs.Apart from capacity, differentCustomers also prefer distinct compressor types to specific ways of working. Therefore, buyers should stock different compressor types to meet various customers' preferences. Additionally, buyers should purchase R22 AC units with energy-efficient models and high EER ratings. Such units typically draw less power and result in substantial cost savings for end users. More importantly, buyers should choose R22 AC compressors from reputable manufacturers to ensure their customers will not experience frequent breakdowns.

Since quality R22 AC compressors are quite expensive, buyers should negotiate for discounts when placing bulk orders. In some cases, buyers may be allowed to sample a few units before making a bulk order. Inquire about product warranties and after-sales support, such as technical guidance and maintenance assistance. This information is necessary for customer support and in case of product failure. If setting up a physical store, buyers should choose compressors that can be stocked easily and take up reasonable floor space.

Finally, if intending to sell online, buyers should choose R22 AC compressors with attractive features that can easily be captured and listed online for marketing purposes.

Q&A

Q: What refrigerant is R22?

A: R-22, or dichlorodifluoromethane, is a type of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gas formerly used in air conditioning systems as both a gas and refrigerant.

Q: Is R22 still used in AC compressors?

A: Although new air conditioning systems still commonly use R-22, some existing systems still do.

Q: What is the function of an R22 AC compressor?

A: An air conditioning compressor's job is to pressurize and circulate the refrigerant throughout the system, removing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside to cool the indoor space.

Q: Can R22 be replaced with R410A?

A: Yes, R410A can replace R22, but they are not interchangeable; the system must use a different type of refrigerant, so the R-22 compressor must also be a different type.