Large frame rotary compressors cover a capacity range of 18,000 to 32,000 Btuh.

In recent months, Tecumseh Products Co. has made a number of announcements related to a line of refrigeration compressors that are optimized for HC refrigerants, an expansion of its line of large frame rotary compressors, and the introduction of direct current (dc) compressors.

Jim Connor, Tecumseh president and CEO, said the launches were designed to show “Tecumseh’s commitment to provide high-quality, efficient products.”

HCs

The TA series refrigeration compressors are for equipment such as household refrigerators and freezers, as well as small commercial equipment such as water coolers and specialty food service devices.

While the TA will support traditional HFC-134a, the company said it is optimized for hydrocarbon refrigerants HC-600a (isobutane) and HC-290 (propane). The company noted on Sept. 8, “This is especially important, since hydrocarbon refrigerants are expected to be authorized for use in U.S. commercial and residential applications in the near future, due to approval of the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Hydrocarbon refrigerants are already being used successfully in both domestic and commercial applications around the world.”

According to the company, advantages of the TA include using up to 35 percent less oil than its predecessor; up to 17 percent smaller than older models of the same capacity; redesigned internals to provide for smoother motor operation; increased suction muffler volume; and models that cover 300 to 800 Btuh for an increased range of capacities.

“The introduction of the TA compressor is another step in our continuous quest to provide high quality, reliable compressors that set the standard for today’s refrigeration marketplace, with the capability to meet the needs of the future,” said Connor. “Since the TA was designed to provide optimized performance with green hydrocarbon refrigerants, it furthers Tecumseh’s position as a leader in hydrocarbon compressor development.”

Rotary Expansion

The expansion of large frame rotary compressors in North America included products for the residential, specialty, and industrial air conditioning markets.

The lineup of high efficiency RN family rotary compressors covers a capacity range of 18,000 to 32,000 Btuh, operating with HFCs -134a, -407C, and -410A refrigerants, according to an announcement made Sept. 6.

The RN R-134a large frame rotary is specifically designed for cooling applications in the telecommunications, process and electronic markets, as well as mobile transport segments. The R-410A models are offered to PTAC manufacturers. The R-407C models are offered as an alternative to scroll technology within the process and electronic cooling segments.

DCs

The DC Masterflux® compressors are being initially released in India for battery cooling applications within the telecommunications market.

The technology has a THK reciprocating compressor fitted with a brushless (BLDC) motor and an additional controller for converting dc power to three-phase power. The product has both fixed-speed and variable-speed capability.

Connor, who was in India for the announcement on Aug. 10, said, “I commend our product development and manufacturing teams in India and North America for their teamwork on this project.”

It was noted that India’s 3G technology created the need for cooling requirements to help extend battery life within remote shelter installations. The compressors are suited for the T3 ambient temperature range up to 55˚C (131˚F) that is often seen in India and the Middle East.

The first unit being introduced is the 48V that provides 500W of cooling capacity. Additional models are being developed for both 12V and 24V applications to address other market segments.

For more information, visit www.tecumseh.com.

Publication date: 11/28/2011