How many types of compressor oil are there? Matching oil to refrigerant
The five types of compressor oil (Mineral, AB, POE, PAG and PVE), how to match them to refrigerants, and the strengths of ORAFON PREMIUM PAG and POE.
Compressor oil lubricates, carries away heat and reduces friction inside the compressor. There are five types:
| Type | Full name |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Mineral Oil |
| AB | Alkylbenzene |
| POE | Polyol Ester |
| PAG | Polyalkylene Glycol |
| PVE | Polyvinyl Ether |
Match the oil to the refrigerant
For the best compressor performance and a longer service life, choosing the right oil for the refrigerant matters. For example:
- HCFC and HC refrigerants suit Mineral Oil
- HFC refrigerants suit synthetic oils: POE, PAG (automotive) and PVE
Why synthetic oil
Synthetic compressor oils such as PAG and POE are increasingly popular in industry and with everyday users. They are more stable and last longer before breaking down, which lowers maintenance cost and labour and improves compressor efficiency.
ORAFON PREMIUM: fully synthetic compressor oil
Mixes well with refrigerant without separating into layers.
ORAFON PREMIUM PAG
A PAG (Polyalkylene Glycol) lubricant developed for automotive compressors, with a special additive package for better lubrication and thermal stability and excellent wear protection.
- For car compressors using R-1234yf and R-134a
- Double-End-Capped chemistry gives up to twice the resistance to moisture absorption of ordinary PAG oil
- Suits all compressor types, including electric compressors in hybrid cars
Products: ORAFON PAG 46 · ORAFON PAG 100
ORAFON PREMIUM POE
A synthetic POE (Polyol Ester) lubricant developed for air-conditioner compressors, especially residential cooling systems. It has high chemical and thermal stability and works with a dedicated additive package for better lubrication and excellent wear protection.
- For air-conditioning systems using low-GWP refrigerants such as R-32
Products: ORAFON POE 32 · ORAFON POE 68 · all compressor oils
Not sure which oil your system needs? Contact the ORAFON team.