A/C Compressors: Why the right oil matters

Maintenance and repair of automotive air-conditioning (A/C) units, either manually or automatically controlled, represent a real expansion opportunity for garages and workshops. Indepth technical knowledge of A/C systems, common faults, recommended components and oils are all essential to achieve customer satisfaction and build return business.

Central to this technical know-how is a comprehensive knowledge of compressors. This is because 99.9% of all compressor problems are not related to product failure, but from a poor understanding of A/C system operation, maintenance and repair.

As one of the world’s leading suppliers of A/C compressors for automotive applications, DENSO knows these units better than anyone. A strong OE background and decades of research and development, mean that DENSO is uniquely placed to offer expert, practical advice on A/C compressor replacement and servicing. We actively support customers through a series of training initiatives in selected regions to inform and train garages on car A/C service, compressor installation and repair procedures.

A key part of this support includes the launch of a new compressor installation guide, which is attached to every DENSO Compressor sold. But there is one aspect in particular that causes the majority of avoidable A/C Compressor problems: the oil.

Universal oil: a key cause of compressor failure

Compressors are vital to a vehicle’s A/C system; compressing the low temperature, low pressure gaseous refrigerant from the evaporator, into a high temperature, high pressure gaseous refrigerant, and discharging it to the condenser.

Oil in the A/C system is essential, primarily to lubricate moving parts, i.e. the compressor and the expansion valve needle. It also enables heat to escape from the compressor. As with refrigerant, oil in the A/C system must retain its chemical stability.

However, it is vital to choose the right oil for the job. Insufficient lubrication due to universal oil is the second most frequent reason for A/C compressor damage and failure. Analysis of DENSO A/C Compressor warranty claims for 2012 showed that in 24% of cases, garages did not use the correct PAG-oil needed for DENSO A/C Compressors.

What are the pitfalls of universal oil?

The use of incorrect oils, such as universal oils or oil mixtures, inevitably leads to A/C compressor damage. This is because universal oils, often preferred by garages, are PAO-oils, or mineral oils with a different viscosity than synthetic PAG-oils. The difference between these two types of oil means that they do not mix, leading to poor lubrication, damaged seals and increased wear.

If the oil is diluted, the lubricant base layer decreases. This results in the piston rubbing against the cylinder bearing surface. If the oil is too thick, it is unable to ‘squeeze’ between the cylinder and the piston. DENSO’s First Time Fit® quality A/C Compressors have a tight tolerance between cylinder and piston of only 3 μm. A change in the oil viscosity can result in more frictional resistance, leading to an increase in compressor temperature and subsequent seizure.

Blending or mixing of different types of oils may lead to the formation of paraffin. This can block the flow of the refrigerant and oil, leading to seizure of the compressor and system failure.

Quantity as important as quality

DENSO also advises that it is not only the quality, but the quantity of oil in the system that is of great importance. Too little oil leads to poor lubrication of the compressor, rising component temperature and oil scorching on the suction side of the compressor. Too much oil in the system will increase the load on the piston-crank system, which can lead to a block in the body of the thrust bearing and the hard front piston co-pivotable skid plate.

Is the oil filtered?

It is also essential that any solid impurities in the compressor oil are removed in the filter-dryer. The filter-dryer will also capture moisture from the oil. As part of the annual maintenance of the A/C system, it is equally vital to remove a proportion of the oil, replacing it with the same quantity of fresh oil.

DENSO recommends

To ensure the longevity of your DENSO A/C Compressor, DENSO always advises technicians to refer to the type label and only charge the compressor with refrigerator oil that is of the specified quality and viscosity. Any warranty claim received after use of other oils or mixtures will not be accepted.

Other essential A/C checks

As well as checking that the A/C system is properly filled with correct amount and type of refrigerant and oil, garages and workshops must make several other regular checks:

• Check the pressure and temperature of the exhaust before and after the compressor
• Check the temperature of the cables from the compressor and the condenser. High pressure should be hot and dry
• Check the cleanliness of the condenser and radiator fan. The appearance of moisture or frost on the high pressure side could mean a blockage in the flow of refrigerant
• Check the temperature difference before and after the dryer. A difference of more than 3°C indicates too much moisture
• Check the refrigerant flow, ice on any element of the air conditioning system is due to a blockage
• Check the tension and condition of the compressor belt
• Check for any unusual noises from the compressor, expansion valve, fans, blowers and air-conditioning ducts

DENSO’s A/C Compressor range

The 100% OE quality of DENSO’s replacement A/C Compressor range delivers an extremely low warranty ratio – providing peace of mind for stockists, installers and drivers alike.

The extensive DENSO A/C Compressor range includes:

Reciprocating type (swash plate type) and Rotary type (Vane Type and Scroll type) as well as an Electric compressor for hybrid vehicles (Scroll type).

Key benefits:

• 100% OE quality: guaranteed fit, right first time
• Perfect match to vehicle specification: little need for technical support
• Highest product quality: extremely low warranty ratio
• All new-in-box: delivered as complete assemblies
• Small, efficient compressors: including references suitable for cars in the compact class
• Durable design: delivers low noise and high performance
• Molydene coated piston: protects the compressor from seizing during run-in
• Triple lip seal (W-lip seal): ensures better sealing and prevents leakage
• 450 part numbers covering over 2,500 applications

DENSO Air Conditioning Repair Network
The DENSO A/C Compressor Repair Network was launched in 2006 to address the growing need for advanced A/C service and repair. It is the first, and only, supplier network to make OEM quality A/C compressor repair more cost effective for out-of-warranty vehicles, compared to fitting brand new replacement parts. As a result, motorists benefit from skilled, affordable, convenient servicing of DENSO A/C Compressors, and dealer members gain an outstanding competitive advantage.

To find out more about DENSO’s Thermal Systems aftermarket ranges including: Radiators, Cooling Fans, Heater Cores, Intercoolers, A/C Compressors, A/C Condensers and Cabin Blower Fans, please contact DENSO Europe B.V.’s Business Unit After Market on +31 (0) 294 493 493.