Ammonia Compressor Oil Filter Change Best Practices

Ammonia Refrigeration Systems and Compressor Oil

Ammonia has been used as an industrial refrigerant for over 140 years. Its unique thermophysical properties make it well-suited for large cooling systems. Ammonia is commonly used in cold storage warehouses, food processing plants, ice rinks, and other large facilities.

At the heart of any ammonia refrigeration system is the compressor. Reciprocating, screw, scroll, and centrifugal compressors are common in industrial settings. These compressors rely on oil to lubricate moving parts and provide sealing within the compressor. Proper oil management is critical for reliable operation.

Functions of Compressor Oil

Compressor oil serves several vital functions:

• Lubricates moving parts like bearings, rods, rotors, and screws
• Forms a seal between stationary parts and moving surfaces
• Transfers heat from internal compressed gas
• Carries debris to the oil filter
• Protects internal compressor surfaces from corrosion

Choosing the right oil specifically formulated for ammonia service is the first step. But maintaining oil quality through filtration and change-outs is equally important.

Ammonia Compressor Oil Filters

Full-flow oil filters are installed in the lubrication system to continuously clean the circulating oil. Common media used inside oil filters includes cellulose fibers and synthetic materials.

As compressor oil cycles through the system, it picks up small metal particulates from component wear, sludge from moisture or decomposition, and other contaminants. The filter media traps these particles and prevents them from recirculating.

Over time, the filtration media becomes saturated and the pressure drop across the oil filter increases. Higher pressure drop reduces oil flow rate and cooling capability. By changing the filter on a periodic basis, fresh media can capture contaminants and keep the oil clean.

Oil Filter Change Best Practices

To maintain peak compressor performance, the oil filter should be replaced regularly. For ammonia systems, experts typically recommend an oil filter change every 2,000 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. Shorter change intervals may be warranted under severe conditions with excess debris, moisture, or decomposition.

It is important to follow safety precautions when changing an ammonia compressor oil filter due to the toxicity and flammability hazards posed by the refrigerant. At minimum, personal protective equipment like impermeable suits, gloves, boots, and respiratory protection should be worn.

The qualified technician should also have hazardous material training on ammonia properties, first aid, emergency response protocols, and proper handling to mitigate risk. All oil filter changes should follow formal lockout tagout procedures with the compressor off and ammonia pressure relieved from the oil lubrication system.

Once the filter housing has been safely isolated, the cover can be detached to remove the old cartridge. The housing interior surfaces should be cleaned before inserting fresh media. Reassemble the canister, restore oil flow, confirm adequate pressure post-changeout, and monitor for any leaks or issues.

With scheduled oil filter replacements, particle contamination can be minimized, enabling clean lubrication for longer machinery lifespan.

Conclusion

Oil is the lifeblood for industrial ammonia refrigeration compressors. It lubricates, seals, cools, and cleans - functions vital to reliable operation. While quality ammonia compressor oil selection sets the base, effective filtration is critical as well.

Full-flow oil filters continuously trap particulates, preventing recirculation within the system. As filters capture more debris over time, the media becomes obstructed. Changing filters every 2,000 hours or 6 months ensures contaminants are removed, keeping oil clean. Proper servicing of compressor oil filters helps maintain peak cooling performance and avert unplanned downtime of ammonia refrigeration systems.

FAQs

Why is oil used in ammonia refrigeration compressors?

Oil serves vital functions like lubricating moving parts, forming seals, transferring heat, and carrying contaminants in ammonia compressor systems. Proper oil is specifically formulated for use with ammonia refrigerant.

How often should you change an ammonia compressor oil filter?

Experts typically recommend changing oil filters every 2,000 operating hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. Shorter intervals may be needed under contaminated or wet conditions.

What happens if you don't change the oil filter regularly?

Over time, oil filters capture more and more debris. Higher pressure drop from clogged filters reduces oil flow rate and cooling effects. Bypassing dirty oil also causes faster wear and corrosion.

What safety gear is needed when changing an ammonia oil filter?

Changing an ammonia system oil filter requires hazardous material handling precautions - at minimum impermeable PPE suits, gloves, boots, and respiratory protection. Proper training on safe protocols must be completed as well.