01/04/2010
Transitioning from older refrigerant systems, particularly those using R22, to modern HFC alternatives can often seem like a daunting and costly undertaking. The traditional approach frequently involves a complete oil flush, replacement of certain seals, and significant downtime. However, a revolutionary product known as Super Change lubricant is poised to transform this process, offering a streamlined and highly effective solution. This article delves into the multifaceted benefits of Super Change, exploring how it simplifies R22 retrofits, protects your system, and ultimately saves you time and money.
What is Super Change™?
Super Change™ is a groundbreaking additive designed to facilitate a fast and easy conversion from R22, or indeed any system utilising mineral or alkylbenzene oils, to a wide array of HFC refrigerants. This includes popular choices such as R407C and R410A, which often require POE-based oils. The brilliance of Super Change™ lies in its ability to create a robust compatibility link between the existing mineral/alkylbenzene oils and the new HFC refrigerants. This means there's no need to undertake a complete oil change-out, nor do you typically need to replace existing 'O' rings or gaskets. The result? A significant reduction in compressor downtime and the elimination of the often messy and time-consuming line set flushing process.
How Does Super Change™ Work?
The core mechanism behind Super Change™ is its unique chemical formulation. It acts as a universal compatibility agent, bridging the inherent incompatibility that often exists between traditional mineral or alkylbenzene oils and the newer HFC refrigerants. Without Super Change™, attempting to mix these oil types or refrigerants can lead to a range of problems, including poor lubrication, system blockages, and premature component failure. Super Change™ effectively modifies the oil to ensure it can properly lubricate and circulate with the HFC refrigerant, creating a stable and efficient system. This ingenious approach bypasses the need for costly and disruptive oil replacement, a major hurdle in many R22 to HFC conversions.
Key Benefits of Using Super Change™
The advantages of integrating Super Change™ into your R22 retrofit project are numerous and impactful. Let's explore these in detail:
Eliminates Oil Change Out
Perhaps the most significant benefit is the elimination of the oil change out. Traditional methods mandate the complete removal of the old mineral oil and its replacement with a compatible POE or PVE oil. This process is labour-intensive, requires careful handling to prevent contamination, and adds considerable cost. Super Change™ negates this entirely, allowing you to retain your existing oil charge, provided it's in good condition. This translates directly into reduced labour costs and significantly less downtime for your HVAC or refrigeration system.
Replaces R22 Line Set Conversion Flush
Another major cost and time saver is that Super Change™ effectively replaces the need for line set conversion flush. Flushing a system to remove residual mineral oil before introducing HFCs can be a challenging procedure. It requires specialised equipment, flushing agents, and multiple passes to ensure all traces of the old oil are gone. Any residual mineral oil can cause serious issues with HFC refrigerants and POE oils. By creating compatibility, Super Change™ renders this complex and often incomplete process unnecessary. This not only saves on materials and labour but also reduces the risk of incomplete flushing leading to future problems.
Combats System Contamination
Super Change™ is more than just a compatibility agent; it's also a powerful system cleaner and protector. It actively removes water and oxygen from the system. Water and oxygen are the primary culprits behind corrosion and oil breakdown within refrigeration and air conditioning systems. By mitigating these contaminants, Super Change™ helps to prevent internal corrosion of metal components and extends the life of the lubricant itself. This proactive approach to system cleanliness is crucial for long-term reliability.
Reduces TEV Failure
The presence of contaminants, particularly moisture and particulate matter, is a leading cause of Thermostatic Expansion Valve (TEV) failure. These sensitive components can become clogged or damaged by debris and sludge that forms due to oil breakdown and corrosion. By cleaning the system and preventing the conditions that lead to contamination, Super Change™ significantly reduces the likelihood of TEV failure. This is a critical benefit, as TEV replacement can be a costly and disruptive repair.
Restores Lubricant to Original Condition
Over time, the lubricating oil within a system can degrade due to heat, moisture, and chemical reactions. Super Change™ works to restore the lubricant to its original condition. It helps to break down sludge, remove varnish, and re-establish the oil's proper viscosity and lubricating properties. This rejuvenation process ensures that the compressor and other moving parts receive optimal lubrication, contributing to their longevity and the overall efficiency of the system.
Extends Compressor Life by Boosting Efficiency
A well-lubricated and clean system operates more efficiently. By ensuring proper oil circulation and preventing issues like oil logging (where excess oil accumulates in the wrong parts of the system, such as the evaporator), Super Change™ helps to boost compressor efficiency. A more efficient compressor works less hard to achieve the desired cooling or heating, leading to reduced energy consumption and a longer operational lifespan. This direct impact on the most critical component of the system makes Super Change™ a valuable investment.
Rejuvenates O-rings, Elastomers, and Gaskets
When switching to HFC refrigerants, especially those using POE oils, there's a risk that the different chemical composition of the new oil can degrade older rubber and plastic components like 'O' rings, elastomers, and gaskets. These components are vital for sealing the system and preventing refrigerant leaks. Super Change™ has the remarkable ability to rejuvenate these vital components. In most cases, this means you won't need to replace them during the conversion. This is a substantial saving in both parts and labour. It's important to note that components already worn through normal wear and tear may still require replacement, but Super Change™ significantly increases the chance of retaining existing seals.
Comparison: Traditional Retrofit vs. Super Change™ Retrofit
To better illustrate the advantages, let's consider a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Traditional R22 Retrofit | Super Change™ Retrofit |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Mandatory (Mineral/AB to POE/PVE) | Not Required (if existing oil is clean) |
| Line Set Flush | Mandatory and complex | Not Required |
| Seal Replacement | Often Required | Often Not Required (rejuvenation) |
| Downtime | Significant | Minimal |
| Labour Costs | High | Significantly Lower |
| Risk of Contamination | High (during oil change/flush) | Low |
| System Cleaning | Relies on flushing | Active cleaning and restoration |
| TEV Failure Risk | Moderate to High | Reduced |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use Super Change™ with any R22 system?
Super Change™ is designed for systems that originally used mineral oil or alkylbenzene (AB) oil. It is compatible with R22 and allows conversion to HFC refrigerants like R407C and R410A. It's always recommended to confirm the type of oil currently in your system for best results.
Q2: What if my existing oil is already contaminated?
While Super Change™ helps to clean and restore oil, heavily contaminated or degraded oil may still benefit from a partial or full change. Super Change™ is most effective when the existing oil is in reasonable condition. If you suspect severe contamination, consult with a qualified technician.
Q3: Do I still need to check for leaks after using Super Change™?
Yes, absolutely. Super Change™ helps to rejuvenate seals, but it is not a leak sealer. A thorough leak check is always a mandatory part of any refrigerant system service or conversion to ensure system integrity and environmental compliance.
Q4: How much Super Change™ should I add?
The exact amount of Super Change™ to be added will typically be specified by the manufacturer based on the system's refrigerant charge or oil capacity. Always follow the product's specific dosage instructions carefully.
Q5: Will Super Change™ affect the performance of my system?
On the contrary, Super Change™ is designed to improve system performance. By ensuring compatibility, cleaning the system, and rejuvenating components, it helps to maintain or even improve efficiency, leading to better cooling or heating performance and reduced energy consumption.
Conclusion
The Super Change™ system offers a compelling and technologically advanced approach to R22 refrigerant conversions. By eliminating the need for oil change-outs and line set flushing, it drastically reduces the time, cost, and complexity associated with transitioning to modern HFC refrigerants. Furthermore, its ability to combat system contamination, reduce TEV failure, restore lubricant quality, and rejuvenate seals provides a comprehensive solution that protects your equipment and enhances its operational efficiency. For any technician or facility manager looking to undertake an R22 retrofit, Super Change™ presents itself as an indispensable tool, promising a smoother, more reliable, and ultimately more economical upgrade.
If you want to read more articles similar to Super Change: Your R22 Retrofit Solution, you can visit the Automotive category.