Test Method for Small Reciprocating Single-Stage Refrigeration Compressors
This test method is applied to single-stage refrigeration compressors typically employed for home refrigerators and freezers, cold storage units, commercial and industrial high and low temperature systems, as well as air conditioning and heat pumps. The purpose of this test method is to evaluate thermal performance and the environmental impact of the lubricant used in small reciprocating single-stage refrigeration compressors in various refrigeration and air conditioning applications.
This test method applies to small reciprocating single-stage refrigeration compressors that employ internal compression and are usually hermetically sealed with an oil sump. The test program is composed of tests that measure thermal performance, compressor noise, and lubricant oil consumption. The compressors operation shall be monitored to characterize its performance during each test.
This method describes the test procedure, equipment, and the conditions to be met prior to initiating each test. The test report summarizes the test results and records the conditions at which the manufacturer claims the specified performance.
A. Test Apparatus
1. Test Chamber
The test chamber shall be a ventilated and temperature controlled environment that complies with the requirements specified herein.
2. Test Instrumentation
The instrumentation and equipment used in testing shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
a. Refrigeration Test Manometer (RTM), or equivalent, for measuring the suction pressure, discharge pressure, and compressor speed.
b. Temperature Sensors to measure ambient temperature, compressor inlet and outlet temperature, and the temperature of the condenser and evaporators.
c. Pressure Sensor for measuring discharge pressure and suction pressure.
d. Instrumentation for measuring current, voltage, and power.
e. Liquid level sensor for measuring the liquid level in the sump.
f. Lubricant Oil analyzer to measure the amount of lubricant oil in the sump at the start and conclusion of the test.
g. Sound Level Meter to measure the amount of noise generated by the compressor.
3. Test Setup
The test setup shall include the following components:
a. Refrigerant circuit and system components.
b. Compressor.
c. Suction line.
d. Evaporator.
e. Condenser.
f. Refrigerant pressure control valves.
g. Expansion device.
h. Lubricant oil sump.
4. Calibration
The test apparatus, instrumentation, and equipment shall be calibrated prior to the test in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the requirements of this test method.
B. Test Procedure
The test procedure shall be conducted in accordance with the following steps:
1. Install the compressor.
2. Install the refrigerant system components.
3. Operate the compressor and the refrigerant system at the ambient condition specified in the test report.
4. Monitor the conditions and performance of the compressor throughout the test.
5. Measure the compressor speed, refrigerant pressures, current, voltage, and power.
6. Measure the ambient temperature, compressor inlet and outlet temperatures, and the temperature of the condenser and evaporators.
7. Measure the amount of lubricant oil in the sump.
8. Measure the compressor noise.
9. Record the test data.
10. Analyze the test data against the performance characteristics specified in the test report.
C. Test Reporting
The test report shall include the following information:
1. Manufacturer’s name, model, and serial number of the compressor tested.
2. Ambient conditions of the test.
3. Test instrumentation and equipment used in the test.
4. Detailed description of the refrigeration system components.
5. Summary of the test procedure.
6. Test results, including the compressor speed, refrigerant pressures, current, voltage, and power.
7. Ambient temperature, compressor inlet and outlet temperatures, and the temperature of the condenser and evaporators.
8. Amount of lubricant oil in the sump before and after the test.
9. Compressor noise measurement.
10. Summary of the test data against the performance characteristics specified in the test report.
11. Signature of the technician performing the test.
This test method is intended for use by those persons having proficiency in the principles and practices of refrigeration and air conditioning systems. The user of this test method is responsible for applying the provisions of this method in the actual tests. The user is also responsible for verifying that the equipment and materials used in the tests described in this test method comply with the requirements of the applicable standards.
