Is refrigerant flammable? (getting a compressor from an old air conditioner) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 09:18:28 pm
content: Alright, so no guarantee, might not even be there when I go to check, but there is a fairly beefy air conditioner for free, working, just old.Now, these compressors are capable of some awesome pressure, 400psi+ from what I have seen looking around.Now, the issue is the refrigerant, it's not exactly a nice thing for the environment, and illegal to just dump out, though I'm sure plenty of people do.Thing is, I don't have the money to pay someone to reclaim the refrigerant, which would have to be done to get that compressor out.I was thinking, if I crimped the pipe flat in several places near the end, maybe, jut maybe I could cut the pipe, and very quickly weld the end shut to seal it off.I don't think the refrigerant is flammable, but it does have oil in it I think, not sure if there is a risk of a fire, or even a miniature flamethrower by doing this.

author: Richard Crowley
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 09:29:33 pm
content: Are we to assume you mean Freon when you say "refrigerant"?A quick check of Wikipedia says....Quote

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 09:31:44 pm
content: Well, I am not sure how old it is, I think Freon stopped being used 20 years ago or so? I'd have to check it for a date when I have it.

author: Richard Crowley
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 09:35:01 pm
content: You must have skipped right over the part that says: " to date no suitable general use alternatives to the halocarbons have been found for refrigeration which are not flammable or toxic, problems the original Freon was devised to avoid."Let me break that down for you....1) Freon is still used because there is no suitable substitute.2) Freon is not flammable which is why it was invented in the first place.bonus...3) If you cannot identify what the refrigerant is, then nobody can tell you whether it is flammable or not.

author: kolbep
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 09:43:52 pm
content: There should be 2 small taps on the pipes where they go into the outdoor unit. Just use an allen key to close those off. That will trap most of the coolant gas/liquid in the compressor and outdoor radiator.you can the cut the pipes, or unscrew them. The small amount of gas that escapes from the indoor unit should not cause a problem.or, if you want, you can do a pumpdown, where you shut one of those taps (dont know which one), then start the aircon. It will then pump all the refrigerant into the compressor and outdoor unit. Give it about a minute, then close offthe other tap before switching off.Once younhave removed the outdoor unit, still with its gas, then on the way home, stop at an aircon dealer, and ask them to reclaim tbe gas.I highly doubt that the coolant is flammable.

author: romantronixlab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 10:31:41 pm
content: My daily job involves working around automotive a/c systems and electronic controls and other systems. Wont say brand as it has nothing to do with the Freon information.Freon in general is not flammable but under the right conditions like pressure and the amount of air in terms of percentage it can become volatile. One example R134 used in many refrigerators and vehicles. One big exception is R22a, also known as 22a Refrigerant, is a highly flammable colorless gas. If enough R-22a is concentrated in one space, and the refrigerant comes in contact with an ignition source, it could burn or even explode.Not to mention that refrigerant overexposure may cause dizziness and loss of concentration. At higher levels, CNS depression and cardiac arrhythmiamay result from exposure. Refrigerants displace air and can cause asphyxiation in confined spaces. At higher temperatures,(>250°C), decomposition products may include Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) and carbonyl halides which is harmful to the lungs.So before taking apart that compressor make sure at least that it is not R22a.

author: Richard Crowley
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 10:45:34 pm
content: If the unit is running poorly, then it may already have some of its refrigerant leaked out.Are those compressors good for other applications (besides refrigerant cooling systems)?Is there a good way to connect to the input and output of the compressor?Is the tubing a standard size that you can get coupler fittings for?You would need 1,000 of those units to equal one day's production of greenhouse gasses from all those sheep in New Zealand.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 10:51:48 pm
content: Picked it up, it was still there so that's good. I've had a migrane all day and lifting it made it 10x worse so that's bad.Anyways, I was expecting it to be twice this size, but its quite compact. It's an in window one, I figured based on the description/close up image it was one that sat on the deck but was still one piece or something. Have yet to open it up, going to wait for an asprin to kick in first.Quote from: Richard Crowley on August 10, 2014, 09:35:01 pmWhat about R14 and R12 like in automotive systems? I thought that AC systems for houses moved over to that as well.

author: Richard Crowley
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 10:57:27 pm
content: According to Wikipedia, both R12 (aka. Freon-12) and R14 (aka. Freon-14) are non-flammable.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dichlorodifluoromethanehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tetrafluoromethane

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 11:03:12 pm
content: Ah so those are just variants of Freon then. Interesting

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 11:25:28 pm
content: When I was a kid I harvested compressors from refrigerators this way:- position the fridge so I can access one of the pipes on the compressor with a hack saw- keep the hack saw at arm's length and saw until the tube goes 'sssshhhhh'- stand back a few meters- wait for the 'sssshhh' to stop and then remove the compressor

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 11:29:10 pm
content: Well, quite a large sized compressor in it, didn't have my phone on me, will head out in a bit, will probably record the process (though I took the case off. Everything is directly hooked together, no valves that I can see. Nothing much on the compressor except some painted/stamped numbers, nothing about the pressure it produces, or info about the refrigerant type. The plan is to use a c clamp to clamp it shut as much as possible before cutting it then wending the coil side. No fittings either but I can probably creatively find a way to get one on there, probably will just have it go to a 1/4" quick connect.Here's a picture of the front I took while picking it up.Quote from: nctnico on August 10, 2014, 11:25:28 pmPossibly what I will have to do, I will use metal shears to cut the pipe though, that will also crimp it shut a bit, and I should be able to get through it. My hacksaw is DOA because the stupid blade retaining bit vanished, and I have to buy a whole new hacksaw :/

author: Rory
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2014, 11:56:37 pm
content: R170 (refrigerant grade Ethane) is flammable and can be explosive. You won't come across it unless you are into cryogenics.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 12:27:15 am
content: Quote from: XOIIO on August 10, 2014, 11:29:10 pmDoes it still work (blow cold air)?Units of that age tended to be well built, and might actually be worth hanging on to if it's working properly. If not, the stuff you don't use after salvaging the compressor has scrap value (i.e. copper tubing & coils).Also, R-22 was used prior to legal changes for stationary A/C systems in the US/CAN (think home/industrial HVAC, refrigerators & freezers), while R-12 was used for automotive. Both types are non-flammable, and are more efficient at cooling than what's currently in use.EDIT: Never mind, you've already opened the system.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 12:28:34 am
content: Well that didn't work, still don't have an auto darkening helmet but I was hitting the tube and it wouldn't start an arc, so it's just venting in the garage with the door open now. Even documented my failure

author: houdini
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 12:40:37 am
content: Arent those pipes usually copper? also welding while gas is pushing out of the pipe would probably just end with molten metal being blown out of the weld and a bigger hole.

author: kc9qvl
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 06:49:35 am
content: R22a, also known as 22a Refrigerant, is a highly flammable colorless gas.US and Canada would have used R22 not R22a. R22a is basically propane.Also, R-22 was used prior to legal changes for stationary A/C systems in the US/CAN (think home/industrial HVAC, refrigerators & freezers), while R-12 was used for automotive. Both types are non-flammable, and are more efficient at cooling than what's currently in use.R410 the long term replacement for r22 is much more efficient. And r134a is also more efficient than r12.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 10:12:01 am
content: Quote from: houdini on August 11, 2014, 12:40:37 amYeah, probably for the best I guess. I'll just chop the rest of it now, there is a larger pipe (I believe for low pressure) that goes to another coil, doubt that has anything left in it but I'll check anyways.Anyways, I think I got a small whiff of it, not sure but I smelt something mildly sweet as I was getting out of there. I had a super fucking massive migrane all day which ended up in the worst damn one I've had in my life, unrelated to the air conditioner (actually has me somewhat concerned, want to get a CT scan).Anyways not sure if it was from the refrigerant or from pushing a pillow on my forehead hard for half an hour but my nose felt kind of numb, a bit like anesthetic was used, could have just been from the pressure but maybe from the whiff I got.No residual effects today, so not a big deal, but if it has an anesthetic effect it could result in a pretty bad death I imagine if someone didn't know what they were dealing with (maybe suffocation or whatever other effect breathing in something with an anesthetic affect would have)

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 11:52:17 am
content: Mild sweet smell? It's probably not propane.All refrigerants are asphyxiant.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 12:09:08 pm
content: Quote from: amyk on August 11, 2014, 11:52:17 amYeah, thought of that a short while ago, and mentioned it in the video, I'm going to edit it and upload it, at least bits, and the part where I have the compressor running, it's very quiet, I was expecting a bit louder. A bit unsure if it could reach 400 PSI or not, certainly not one of the big ones you get from outdoor units like aussie50 has for a high pressure air supply (which is what I'd like to make ideally), but plugging the end with my thumb for a short period does get some decent pressure up. Need to solder some copper fittings to the pipe to try and get it up to 1/4" threading to stick a pressure gauge or quick connect on (probably the latter as I can just connect it to my small air cannon that has a pressure gauge, though is a 7 liter fire extinguisher so it would probably take some time to get up to that pressure.Another option is a vacuum pump but I don't really have anything to make a chamber out of. Another possibility though, and what originally got me wanting an A/C compressor.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 02:41:36 pm
content: There were some markings on the compressor I missed, looks like this was an R22 system, hopefully I can find the compressor PSI looking up the model number.edit: hmm can't find anything. It's marked "aspera 138 BG 14", also has 10 FLA 46 LCA (or something similar to that, not in the garage right now)

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 04:37:23 pm
content: Wll it is old and runs R22, which does not burn but which decomposes in a flame to give a nice green colour, and a byproduct of hydroflouric acid ( yummy) so do not try to weld on it with gas venting! You will find it will give a pressure of around 200-250PSI into a closed valve ( not good as it can blow the piping) and will suck down to about 0.1PSI on the suction side.It will blow a small amount of oil out the high pressure side, so will eventually run out of oil at some point running open loop. Suction line will be the 1/2 in pipe going in the side of the compressor, and the HP side will be the 1/4in pipe coming out the side. There will be another 1/4 pipe that is crimped off with either a valve ( if it has ever been opened) or with a crimp and brazed end, which is the fill line when it was made. Make a good not where the connections inside the compressor cover go, as there are 3 and if you get it wrong it will burn out fast. Keep the thermal cutout there as well ( on one terminal and connected to the black wire, with the red and white going to the other 2. Note the wiring as well to the 50uF capacitor there and keep it as well. It will need it.If oyu are going to use this to compress air you will need to get a pressure shut off switch and set it to around 140PSI so you can use it with standard air tools. It is likely a small 1200 BTU compressor, and draws 10A runnig. You will need to cool the case with a fan while it is running, as it is designed this way to need cooling air.Take the coils and separate them from any steel, and take to the scrapyard, where you get around $1 per kilo.

author: paul23
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2014, 05:39:11 pm
content: Quote from: kc9qvl on August 11, 2014, 06:49:35 amR410a is a medium term replacement. It has already been replaced in Japan by R32 and will be replaced in the rest of Asia, Europe and South America over the next few years. No idea on North America. R134a has been replaced by R600a on almost all domestic refrigeration systems and will likely be phased out soon on commercial applications along with R404a.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 12:38:44 am
content: Quote from: SeanB on August 11, 2014, 04:37:23 pmSounds like you have worked on these before XDOutput is indeed 1/4", and I am working on connecting that, like I say in the video I have yet to publish my air hose Is rated for 300 PSI, not using this on tools, but maybe for a duster and primarily my small (and smaller yet) air cannons.I am working on getting the output to a quick connect which is proving a tad difficult.Went to the hardware store, after finding that a 3/8ths pipe fits the 1/4 inch one perfectly I was going to solder those together, however I talked with a guy and he mentioned compression fittings. Knew of them but never really used em before so it didn't occur to me. Got one from 1/4" to 3/8ths, now the issue is getting that to either male or female NPT, preferably female but if I have to I can buy the female connection quick connect.I have the coiled nylon hose from the air compressor, the one I used before I upgraded to a nice 25 foot rubber one, it has a working pressure 200psi and burst pressure 400psi, and seems close to the 3/8ths diameter, so I think that might fit in the compression fitting. Not sure but it seems like it might work. Not going to use this hose again and couldn't sell this for a few bucks anyways, so I'll cut it and see.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 12:43:42 am
content: Hmm, it's considerably smaller, I wonder if the compression ring inside would bite down onto it enough to make it work properly. HrmmmmShould have gotten a couple spare rings while I was thereI don't know, do you guys think that the compression fitting will work properly even with a couple millimeters extra space? I don't know if they have anything the size of that hose or not. Can't really return this if I use the ring anyways, was just a few bucks but still. I do want to just try it though. Might lead to a trip back either way.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 12:56:58 am
content: If the olive isn't already a tight fit it won't work. They should only just slip on.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 01:23:31 am
content: Gave it a try anyways since I was impatient, I'd say possibly half the air was leaking out of it, but it still got my small air cannon to 60 PSI or so, fairly quickly too, and that was with a substantial leak, I'm hoping maybe they have something I can just get the hose into, if so it will work perfectly and I have the female threaded quick connect ready to go!

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 02:34:12 am
content: Uhg, went to the hardware store to find a solution, spent another $10, got some more olives for each side, and the guy found another brass compression thing, which fit very well over the air hose and inside the olive, and got the gap to less than a millimeter or so I'd say, perfect solution except that while I was tightening it, one of the damn threads broke, apparently the extra brass was too much for it to handle, uhg.Anyways, plan was to do that and maybe add super glue if it was not perfect, to seal up the little bits where it could leak out, but I had no luck, so I put the hose in the brass insert and dripped a fair bit of superglue in, going to repeat the process and also manually crimp the brass insert around the pipe, then put the thing together with plumbers tape, and hopefully it holds.It's just so damn hard tog et 1/4" copper pipe to half inch NPT, uhg. If this doesn't work I've wasted a good $20 on this project

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 04:18:46 am
content: Quote from: paul23 on August 11, 2014, 05:39:11 pmThe irony is that R410a is actually a mix of R32 and R125, the latter of which has a very high GWP and lowers efficiency. I figure the real reason they put that in there is so when the patents expire, they would have a reason to phase it out. They started the phaseout of CFCs and HCFCs when the patents were about to expire, same story with the R134a recently.My current favorite is R433b as well as other hydrocarbons. They're flammable, but so are all those lithium batteries in common use nowadays. The fluorocarbon industry does whatever they can to discredit "alternatives".

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 06:51:53 am
content: Well, didn't work, and I am at the end of my rope, I have no clue how to do this.I don't suppose the whole inside of the black container for the pump gets pressurized (I hear something rattling around inside) if that were the case I could drill and tap a hole to just put a quick connect on :/

author: corrado33
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 01:30:01 pm
content: Compression fittings work as a set. The ferrules are matched to the nuts that are matched to the threads on the other side. You can't randomly use whichever size ferrule and whichever size nut you want. It will not work. Compression fittings are also MADE for a certain size tubing. Notice I said tubing not pipe. Pipe is measured on the ID, while tubing is measured on the OD. Compression fittings need a certain OD to work properly. There should be NO gap between the tubing and the ferrule. It should JUST slide on. I often have a bit of trouble putting the ferrules on tubing. Also, compression fittings are not meant to be tightened down as hard as you can. You tighten them by hand, then tighten them 1-2 complete revolutions more, depending on how big of a pipe it is.Take a look at this. I wouldn't suggest ordering swage in your case because they're expensive, but they're well known for compression fittings. You can also easily find NPT-compression adapters. NOTE: Swagelok compression fittings are NOT compatible with the ones you buy at the store. Period.http://www.swagelok.com/downloads/webcatalogs/EN/MS-13-151.pdfThe first section after the table of contents is about the dangers of mixing different sized components. If you continue to try to use the wrong products in this application, you're going to hurt yourself.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 07:41:40 pm
content: Uhg, I need to check princess auto's website more often, they have 1/4" compression to 1/4" npt directly, for only a couple bucks. I wasted so much damn moneyhttp://www.princessauto.com/pal/en/Couplers/1-4-in-NPT-Brass-Compression-Fitting/0400044.pI'm just not sure what pressure these can go up to, I probably won't go much higher than 200 PSI but being able to go to 400 would be nice.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 08:10:46 pm
content: They normally blow out the tubing before the fitting lets go, and typically they will pop copper tubing at around 400PSI, where the tubing shears off at the olive. Steel tube you might get 600PSI before something fails, and I would not like to be in the area when that happens.There is a reason airconditioning uses a flared joint in those places where the piping is not hard brazed.

author: Richard Crowley
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 08:18:06 pm
content: 400 PSI (or even 200 PSI, for that mater) seems dangerous and potentially lethal with such poor knowledge of the mechanics of high-performance plumbing and fittings.This is why I asked about the size of the tubing and whether you could actually find suitable fittings for it.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 08:28:07 pm
content: Quote from: SeanB on August 12, 2014, 08:10:46 pmYeah, I would rather braze/solder it but all these fittings are stainless or brass and I don't think you can braze/solder brass/stainless to copper pipe, or if so I don't think my soldering iron cold do it. Pretty sure you need a blowtorch.Trying to think of a DIY way I could flare the end o the copper tube, but most things would probably do it unevenly. The tools to flare the pipe probably won't be very cheap either

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 08:36:21 pm
content: Flare tools are cheap enough, and very useful if you do work with AC or even just do machinery with hydraulic fittings. Copper pipe brazes quite well to brass, steel or even stainless steel with the right flux and brazing rod. Yes you need a lot more heat than what a soldering iron can give, you can use a MAPP gas torch for small pipes in copper, generally up to 3/4 inch at times, but with larger fittings you really need a hotter flame.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 09:08:24 pm
content: Quote from: SeanB on August 12, 2014, 08:36:21 pmYeah I wouldn't go above 1/2" copper for anything really, if the flare tool is a few bucks for a cheapie I may get it but I can't really justify spending $15 on something I will be using for one thing.Do those mini jet "soldering irons" work well for small copper pipes and stuff? Used to have a couple though they got clogged, blowing capacitors with those was a lot of fun lol. Lot cheaper than a propane tank one too.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2014, 10:21:36 pm
content: Well drove across town, princess auto said they had 11, couple hours later they had none. They pointed me to a plumbing store a couple minutes away, and I got the last one, and it cost me 63 cents. Washy can't these store be closer? Raaah

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 12:39:51 am
content: Okay, what the hell. Someone please explain this to me.This compressor is 120vIt is orders of magnitude quieter than the one on my 3 gallon air compressor.It fills the 3 gallon tank in less than a third the amount of time it takes the standard compressor.It is capable of much higher pressures.Yes, it's heavier than the entire other compressor, but still.Why on earth are these not the standard for air compressors? My god it is fantastic compared to the mastercraft one, or any other I have heard running. In the time it normally takes to fill the 7 pound fire extinguisher air cannon to 100PSI with the regular compressor I can fill it to 160PSI twice with this one.Seriously, this is insane, and even with it just running, no reserve air tank it's not a half bad amount of air to dust off loose particles.My grandmother picked up a culligan (well not really culligan) water cooler with a small fridge and it has a tiny one of these, I have a feeling it would be amazing in my room for gently dusting off laptop fans and the like, though I am not sure how much air it puts out.Seriously, this is ludicrous.I have a 6 gallon air compressor tank (the pancake kind) that I got for a few bucks at the scrap yard, no feet or compressor but it's in good enough shape, I'd like to get feet for it, and mount this on it. I'd need to use some bits of steel and weld them to the old compressor mounts to fit this one on, but it would be so much better. Do that and have a valve to either directly fill the tank (which can do max 150 PSI) or bypass it directly to the hose to fill air cannons and it would be pure awesome, probably would need two separate connectors for the hose, that might be cheaper anyways and not sure if there is a "T" valve or way to do this with only one ball valve but I definitely want to try. This is so much more superior than the mastercrap loud as hell one.

author: Richard Crowley
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 01:21:19 am
content: Quote from: XOIIO on August 13, 2014, 12:39:51 amBut does that really translate into an equivalent SCFM volume rating?Are you trying to supply air-driven power tools from this?The requirements for a refrigeration system aren't quite the same as for supplying a few power tools.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 02:08:48 am
content: Quote from: Richard Crowley on August 13, 2014, 01:21:19 amNot powering any air tools, and wouldn't until the air from it stops smelling sweet, but if I have the old compressor on just blowing onto my hand through the hose and little air nozzle it's not as strong as the air conditioning one.Of course when things get bigger and you want to power three nail guns or something the larger rotary or screw compressors will be better, no doubt, but for these smaller 3 and 6 gallon ones I think that the air conditioning ones can be vastly superior, there is probably a smaller size one that would fill at the same rate of the mastercraft one, and while still being heavy would not be quite so heavy and would be quiet.

author: ignator
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 03:09:54 am
content: Your smelling oil from the compressor can that is spraying into your tank. This was mentioned before. The compressor can is at suction pressure. This is so the returning cold refrigerant (Freon is a trade mark name of Dupont) cools the motor windings. This is old enough that it's a reciprocating compressor. Probably a 2 cylinder.If you have posted any youtube videos of you cutting into this system remove them. You are subject to fines of $25000 for releasing R22. I'm not joking. And your videoing this is evidence to prosecute you.You did have the right idea of crimping the tubing, then cutting it and brazing the cut closed. This could be done with locking pliers, one on each side of the cut.If you look there are dead end tubes sticking out of the compressor, or a tee in existing piping that was closed off in the factory, using a special pinch tool.Understand that a refrigeration compressor is operating in a closed loop, and as such a small amount of oil circulates, as this is used to lubricate the piston rings, and cylinder.Refrigeration tubing/piping, rigid and soft is measured by outside diameter. Your hardware store uses the 'nominal ID' as this is intended as plumbing for water, and that's how the industry has measured it since it's inception. Note 1/8" and 1/4" plumbing piping is much larger then the nominal ID of it's measurement rating, as the process to manufacture has improve and allowed the wall thickness to be much thiner (over the last 120 years). The OD of the plumbing had to stay the same for the pipe thread or sweat fitting used. What is 1/4 OD refrigeration tube, is 1/8" plumbing tube. There is reuse of common piping and fittings, but they are called out differently.My guess is your compressor will seize someday because you pumped all the oil out. They make a oil separator that collects the find oil mist, and has a float in the bottom that is connected to the suction line of the compressor. This is installed in the hot gas output of the compressor before the condenser in a typical system. Scroll compressors use oil as the 'piston ring' and pump lots of oil during operation.Also don't ever burn R22 (or other fluorocarbon/halocarbon gases), this creates phosgene gas. This is toxic, and smells sweet. It was used during WW I as a chemical weapon.Your unit is a HOTPOINT brand which is manufactured by General Electric (Garbage electric IMO). They may have used custom copper tubing throughout as they value engineer the crap out of any of their consumer products, and saving raw copper weight with their volume of manufacture can justify not used COTS (commercial off the shelf). But I don't know specific to this, seems you were having issues with fittings.I hope this clears up some information that was missing. Sorry about too much information not germane to your post. Working on this was my first schooling back 74-76, and as a lab tech for The Trane Company in La Crosse WI.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 05:03:30 am
content: Quote from: ignator on August 13, 2014, 03:09:54 amYeah, I wonder how long they last for. Maybe it would be a good idea to occasionally put some oil in the suction side to keep things lubricated? I did just reclaim two nice sized jars of what I believe is silicon oil from a rear projection TV.Also, I'll edit out that part of the video now, thanks for the advice lol. I do need a good set of locking pliers.

author: RiverTown
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 01:00:15 pm
content: Quote from: XOIIO on August 13, 2014, 12:39:51 amBecause air conditioner and refrigeration compressors aren't designed for long time run.Another thing is that refrigerant helps with lubrication and cooling.So while pumping air it can work only for short periods of time, much shorter than standard air compressors.So you shouldn't use this kind of compressors for powering air tools that require a lot of air (hammers, sandblasters, painting guns, wrenches etc.)But they are perfect for electronics lab shop air.You don't need much air in electronics lab and this compressors can be used for dusting, paint brush (for fronts panels etc.), or used as air supplies for desoldering stations and paste dispensers.Its big advantage is that it is very quiet and can be used even in apartments or offices, without neighbours complaining.I think that you shouldn't go over 120-150 psi.It's more than enough for regular use, and I think that you don't have knowledge or confidence in tank and compressor itself to use higher pressures.I'll try to explain how to properly make air compressor for your lab.DISCLAIMER: Everything you do, you are doing on your own responsibility.This tutorial contains working with mains wiring and with high pressure. You should have basic knowledge of electricity and pneumatics.Any mistakes can lead to the electrical shock or explosion with result of injury or death.Ebay links are here for example only. I'm not in affiliate with any of the sellers. Items are chosen randomly, and they maybe don't have proper pressure ratings.Double check that all of items have proper pressure ratings needed for your sistem before you buy them. Buy locally if you can and check all details prior buying, ask seller anything that isn't clear for you.You already have compressor and tank, and they are expensive parts of project.First of all you will need some kind of filter on the compressor inlet so that dust can't get in.You can use gasoline filter used on motorcycles and lawn mowers.http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-INDUSTRIAL-HIGH-PERFORMANCE-UNIVERSAL-INLINE-GAS-FUEL-FILTER-5-16-4-L-NEW-/171399419009?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27e8339481&vxp=mtrNow we have solved the inlet.Another thing that we will need is pressure switch. Something like this, they aren't expensive:http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heavy-Duty-Air-Compressor-Pressure-Switch-Control-Valve-90-PSI-120-PSI-F1-/321453020305?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ad817d491Safety valve with proper pressure rating is a M U S T..http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-4-BSPT-Air-Compressor-Pressure-Relief-Valve-Safety-Release-Valves-/360614076885?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item53f64621d5http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-1-4-safety-relief-valve-for-air-compressor-150-psi-/190692710351?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2c662bd7cfYou should have manometer gauge to control pressure in the tank.Check valve is highly recommended, it allows easy start for compressor (it will be unloaded).There are different types of check valves, here is one example.http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_odkw=check+valve&_osacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p2045573.m570.l1313.TR12.TRC2.A0.H0.Xcheck+valve+air+compressor&_nkw=check+valve+air+compressor&_sacat=0Now we covered all things related to the pressure switch.As you already know compressor is full of oil, and small amount will be sprayed with the air.We must prevent this for two reasons. First oil must stay in compressor, or it will die. Another reason is that you don't want any oil in your air tools or on the electronics you want clean of dust.We will use oil/water separator for that purpose.http://www.ebay.com/itm/TEKTON-4755-Oil-Water-Separator-/221477545760?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3391172720You must be sure to use separator that have right pressure ratings.These separators have small valve, so you can return any trapped oil back to the compressor through air inlet (of course you need to remove filter first).On the output you should have air regulator. They are cheap and come with air pressure gauge and additional separator.Additional separator is also highly recommended because there will be some condensed water in the tank.http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-4-Air-Filter-Regulator-Lubricator-Combination-Water-Oil-Separator-AFC-2000-GBW-/151231391994?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item233617e8faYou should put quick air hose couplers after regulator for easy connecting.This is how you should connect everything.First you should instal filter on the air inlet.First thing that goes to the air outlet is w/o separator, then check valve. From there you go to the tank.If there isn't any convenient place to install safety valve and manometer on the tank you can install them after check valve.First thing that you should install on the output of the tank is pressure switch. I won't explain how to wire it, or how to adjust pressures. Check your switch manual for that.Air regulator goes after pressure switch, and then quick coupler is mounted.Some air tanks have valve at the bottom. It's recommended to open that valve and let condensed water to drain out once a year.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 03:54:39 pm
content: Refrigerant oil is not something to just chuck any oil in. Luckily for you this unit is old enough that the oil is straight SAE10 mineral oil, so the replacement oil must be a plain mineral oil, not a silicone oil, which will turn into gum and grinding paste inside the unit. Rear projection TV sets use a silicone based oil that is designed to be optically clear, it is not a lubricant at all.You can go to any tool supplier and get air oil, designed for putting into air powered equipment, quite cheap. It is mostly clear and thin, and is ideal for this compressor, though you can also go and buy proper mineral refrigeration oil, I buy Fuchs Reniso 32 compressor oil in gallon bottles for use in vacuum pumps, as it is a good lubricant and the right viscosity. It also is a good general purpose light oil that does not go tacky.Other refrigerant oils are based on organic acids and will turn into something that eats metal and corrodes copper when exposed to air and water. They are not something you want to use in any application other than a closed hermetic system.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 08:25:59 pm
content: Quote from: SeanB on August 13, 2014, 03:54:39 pmAlright, so a way to identify the oil type is that sweet smell then?Quote from: RiverTown on August 13, 2014, 01:00:15 pmGood tips, wouldn't have thought to put a filter on the input end, already have a quick connect mounted directly to it, and a couple local stores sell water/dirt filters for the output side, I'll get one of those whenever I start using this on stuff other than my air cannon, I also need one for the 33 gallon well pressurization tank I got for use as an air cannon/reserve air supply (just reserve air for now).The little 6 gallon pancake tank I have already has the valve at the bottom, unfortunately the regulator that came with it was smashed to shit. I think when I get my angle grinder/auto darkening helmet I will take the paint off the four old compressor mounts, weld some steel plates to those, and drill holes to mount the compressor on top. Might even be able to re-use some of the galvanized stuff from the air conditioner though I'll be sure to do it with more ventilation.

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2014, 02:32:46 am
content: For your use, you can just put car engine oil in the compressor.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2014, 12:38:55 am
content: OhboyThe light is pretty low today, but I managed to get one reading on my chrono, at 200PSI, my mini air cannon shot a rock at 345FPS, and it can go up to 250 no problem, that's where y current gauge maxes out, but when I tried it the barrel blew off too lol, I need to get some hearing protection though, it's quite a snap when you fire it.

author: kc9qvl
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2014, 05:57:07 pm
content: Take a picture of label on the compressor most will say what is in it. "min" mineral oil, "a/b alkylbenzene, "poe" polyolester.most likely mineral oil, possibly alkylbenzene, too old to be polyolester.