Search Results

The PFR (parallel flow) condenser possesses numerous advantages for the automotive designer. Light weight, compact dimensions, low refrigerant charge and high performance are well documented features. In addition, the PF condenser offers a corrosion resistant materials package. This helps to assure a long life in a vehicular application where a corrosive environment is present. The corrosion resistance of the PFR condenser is documented and explained in this paper. Laboratory accelerated corrosion tests (CASS) and field testing in the harsh climate of Montreal gave evidence of the effectiveness of cathodic protection by zinc. Observed (SEM-EDS) zinc diffusion profiles at the critical areas of the condenser characterize the diffusion layers. It is clear that these zinc concentration profiles are responsible for the excellent corrosion resistance.

This paper reviews vehicular wind tunnel tests that were carried out on two automotive air conditioning systems. The test data compare the performance of the air conditioning systems utilizing refrigerants HFC-134a and CFC-12 with various heat exchangers. Heat exchanger selection was found to influence refrigerant charge levels. This will be important in the future when more costly HFC-134a becomes the refrigerant of choice. CFC-12 HAS LONG BEEN THE REFRIGERANT OF CHOICE for automotive air conditioning systems. Unfortunately, scientists have linked CFC-12 and other fully halogenated refrigerants to the destruction of the world's ozone layer. In addition, CFC-12 and other fully halogenated refrigerants are “greenhouse” gases, accounting for about 25% of the global warming that has taken place (1). The most promising environmentally safe refrigerant for replacement of CFC-12 appears to be HFC-134a.

A brazed aluminum air conditioning condenser has been developed(1) which utilizes lesser amounts of refrigerants than conventional condensers while maintaining equal system performance. This paper summarizes vehicular wind tunnel and road tests that were conducted to confirm the condenser's performance in a variety of applications. The condenser's ability to perform at lower refrigerant charge levels will become important when government legislation imposes limits on the production of refrigerants such as R-12.