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As we introduced our Parker Sporlan webinar series we realized that we couldn't possibly answer all the questions in that short amount of time. We decided to create Climate Control blogs to answer some of the more pressing questions. This is the third of three blogs answering questions from our Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs.
Q: What is the minimum pressure difference across the TEV?
A: The existence of pressure-drop helps to facilitate flow through the thermostatic expansion valve or TEV. At some point, flow won’t occur if the pressure drop is too low. Manufacturers will typically provide ratings for expansion valves with a minimum pressure drop of 30 psid across the TEV. This does not include the pressure drop that would occur across the distributor if present in the system and the pressure drop across the evaporator.
Q: The pressure drop across TEV in the Correction Factor table ranges widely, 30 to 275 psig. How does a TXV with a widely varying condensing pressure act, say a freezer that condenses from 150 psig winter to 250 psig summer?
A: The ratings in the capacity tables for Sporlan TEVs are in accordance with ANSI/ARI Standard Number 750. The proper valve selection is critical to offering a good balance of control over the varying conditions. The TEV will ultimately attempt to control superheat at the bulb location even under varying conditions. As conditions vary, a situation may occur that is beyond the ability of the TEV to control superheat at the bulb location. Adjustment or replacement of the TEV may be required. In more extreme cases, there may exist a need for the hot gas bypass to control low side pressures and a head pressure control system to control high side pressures in order to stabilize system conditions. You stack the odds in favor of the TEV being able to control superheat with stable conditions. We recommend using our Virtual Engineer program to properly select valves based on those varying conditions.
Q: We need a TEV rated for R449A, but we don't have it in stock. Could we use a similar TEV rated for R22 as a replacement?
A: The mass flow rate for R449A is 7 to 10% higher compared to R22 depending upon system conditions. The Net Refrigerating Effect (NRE) of R22 is slightly higher compared to R449A as expected. In general, the existing R22 TEV will serve as a suitable replacement for the R449A application; however, this is no guarantee. It is good practice to evaluate the existing components with appropriate selection software or ratings tables using the new system conditions.
Q: In the age of energy savings and reduced head pressure during cool weather conditions, what should we watch out for? How would we detect a problem with the TXV?
A: The TEV is intended to control superheat at the sensing bulb location. Determining the superheat at the bulb location is one way to determine if something is amiss. Careful product selection and system commissioning is ever important today. System monitoring during various conditions is key with these new reductions in head pressure (walk-in coolers, etc.). There are many system parameters that should trigger an alarm condition and ultimately indicate some control problem has occurred. Low or High superheat at the bulb location would be one such condition. Unfortunately, a problem may not be detected until the case is warm and the product has been lost. Utilization of Sporlan’s Virtual Engineer program can assist with proper valve selection and help get things started correctly.
Q: On the MOP charge migration concern, wouldn’t heating the element affect valve function?
A: Yes, it will but in a good way. If the thermostatic charge constituents have all migrated to the diaphragm housing, the TEV will not be operational and it will not be controlling superheat at the bulb location. By warming the diaphragm housing or element, the charge constituents will be forced back into the bulb, once again making the TEV operational. A warm rag on the diaphragm housing can be used to determine if charge migration has occurred. The diaphragm housing should always be warmer than the bulb, especially with MOP-style thermostatic charges.
Q: If hot gas for capacity control is being utilized and introduced before the evaporator, how does that affect the bulb and valve?
A: In this instance, the hot gas will be mixed in the evaporator with the refrigerant being introduced from the TEV. The TEV will simply do its job of controlling superheat at the bulb. It will be influenced by the load on the evaporator and the hot gas that has been introduced at the inlet of the evaporator. In this scenario, the TEV will continue to act as the same superheat control that it did prior to the introduction of the hot gas. However, it will also act as a desuperheating device to temper the discharge gas.
Q: Why don’t manufacturers use bleed ports more often since it helps start the compressor?
A: Good question, maybe we should ask the equipment manufacturers. Bleed Ports are handy for restarting a unit against a pressure differential, for fine-tuning TEV capacity, for maintaining minimum suction pressure during startups when the system is equipped with a micro-channel condenser and the list continues. However, bleed ports prevent TEVs from seating tightly and this can complicate the ratings process for manufacturers.
Q: Why do compressor manufacturers generally expect a higher superheat at the compressor inlet as compared to the evaporator outlet?
A: The TEV is intended to control superheat at the sensing bulb location. As the superheated refrigerant travels through the suction line on the way to the compressor inlet, ambient conditions can contribute to the superheat of the refrigerant. This can happen if the suction line is uninsulated or if it is routed through high-temperature areas on the job site. This becomes a balancing act. Too little superheat at the compressor inlet and a flooded condition may damage the compressor. Too much superheat and the compressor may overheat.
For more information on TEVs see Parker Sporlan Bulletin 10-10-8, Bulletin 10-9, Bulletin 10-10.
For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
Article contributed by Jim Jansen, senior application engineer, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin
Additional resources on HVACR Tech Tips:
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - Q&A Part 1
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - Q&A Part 2
HVACR Tech Tip: Understanding and Preventing Superheat Hunting in TEVs
4 Nov 2020
ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect flame-free refrigerant fittings help to improve productivity for HVACR contractors and technicians on the job. Having the ZoomLock MAX complete system equipped with all the sizes and configurations you will need simply saves time and improves safety and efficiency.
This post is the last blog in our series providing answers to the top FAQs on ZoomLock MAX. The Q & As cover refrigerants and oils, and installation technicalities for fittings, leaks, sealing, temperature, and system compatibility.
Applications
ZoomLock MAX fittings are designed for the following applications:
Refrigeration
Air Conditioning
Heat Pump (Refrigeration Side)
Download the full list of FAQs in this handy guide and learn more about ZoomLock MAX.
Q: What approved refrigerants are for use with ZoomLock MAX?
A: ZoomLock MAX is approved for use with R-32, R-134a, R-404A, R-407C, R-407F, R-410A, R-507, R1234ze, R1234yf, R-718, R-450A, R-513A, R-448A, R-449A, R-407A, R-427A, R-438A, R-417A and R-422D.
A: Use ZoomLock MAX for approved POE, PAO, PVE, AB, and mineral oils. The O-ring has been tested successfully with PAG oil; however, you should not use PAG oil with copper systems due to the potential for corrosion of the copper material.
A: No, if a pressed fitting is leaking, the fitting must be cut out and replaced. You should not attempt to braze the fitting as you may melt the O-ring material and thus introduce contaminants into the system that could cause other system issues.
A: No, ZoomLock MAX has been thoroughly freeze/thaw tested.
A: No, ZoomLock MAX has been Acid Salt Spray tested to ASTM G85. As with all copper installations, avoid exposure to ammonia.
A: Yes, the O-ring does compensate for small/minor scratches on the surface of the tube. However, avoid imperfections adjacent to the crimp area such as scratches, incise marks, and tubing that is not round. Reference copper piping standard for roundness.
A: If you use ZoomLock MAX in an application that the fitting goes beyond the specified limits of the O-ring, then there is an increased likelihood that a leak can occur due to the compromised O-ring.
A: ZoomLock MAX fittings comply with the cleanliness standards as required in the Copper Tube Standards EN 12735-1 and ASTM-B280. Keep the zip closure bag sealed to protect fittings from contamination.
A: Vibration is a recognized cause of leaks, design the system, and install to comply with all local standards and codes of practice, which aim to minimize vibration. Extensively tested ZoomLock MAX fittings ensure the joint doesn’t leak as a result of system vibration and complies with the following standards:
ISO 14903, Temperature Pressure Cycling and Vibration Test
UL 109 - 8, Vibration Test
UL 207, Fatigue Shock Test
A: Good installation practice, a nitrogen purge during any brazing (not required with ZoomLock MAX mechanical fittings), a deep evacuation, and the proper installation and use of filter-driers containing new and effective molecular sieve desiccants prevent many system failures including the buildup of acid within the system. When selecting which desiccant material is best for an application, consider water capacity, refrigerant and lubricant compatibility, acid capacity, and physical strength, which are essential characteristics of desiccants.
A: No, some rotational movement is quite acceptable, the joint will not leak, nor will it come apart under the pressure loading and during system operation. Some joint movement is good and allows for expansion and contraction in the system pipework.
A: No, ZoomLock MAX is not suitable for medical gas applications.
A: No, only press ZoomLock MAX fittings once.
A: No, do not use ZoomLock MAX for drinking water systems.
A: No, use ZoomLock MAX for air conditioning and refrigeration applications only.
A: Pull 200 microns for a deep vacuum.
Improved productivity equates to more profitability for your business
ZoomLock MAX technology is the next generation of the press–to–connect copper refrigeration and air conditioning fittings—and flameless connections. Now, HVACR professionals can safely make secure leak-free connections in seconds without the use of a brazing torch or press tool. Adding all that time savings allow for more scheduled jobs and greater profitability potential for your business.
Ready to learn more? Visit the ZoomLock MAX website to download the full FAQs sheet, schedule a demo, watch it in action, get training support, locate a distributor, and get started today!
Article contributed by Chris Reeves, product manager, Contaminant Control Products, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin. For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
Related, helpful content for you:
ZoomLock MAX Press-to-Connect Refrigerant Fittings FAQs–Part 1
ZoomLock MAX Press-to-Connect Refrigerant Fittings FAQs– Part 2
HVACR Tech Tip: What Every Technician Needs to Know About Refrigeration Oils
HVACR Tech Tip: Guide to Servicing Blended Refrigerants
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - Q&A Part 1
8 Oct 2020
ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect refrigerant fittings are changing the way HVACR professionals connect refrigerant lines. By using ZoomLock MAX, you, the HVACR technician can connect refrigerant lines in seconds, boosting efficiency while providing the safety and reliability you expect from Parker.
This post is the second in our series providing answers to the top FAQs on ZoomLock MAX fittings. The answers cover crimping, jaws, tools, and compliance.
Applications
ZoomLock MAX fittings are designed for the following applications:
Refrigeration
Air Conditioning
Heat Pump (Refrigeration Side)
Download the full list of FAQs in this handy guide and learn more about ZoomLock MAX.
Q: Where do I crimp ZoomLock MAX fittings?
A: Crimp with the jaw straddling directly over the O-ring section of the fitting, as in the image below.
Q: How many crimps can you complete on a complete battery charge?
A: That is tool dependent; consult the tool manufacturers owner’s manual.
Q: How do you know when to service the tool?A: That is tool dependent; consult the tool manufactures owner’s manual.
Q: What is the expected life of the jaws?A: ZoomLock MAX jaws are laser hardened and have a finite life expectancy. We encourage each customer to have the jaws and tools serviced and checked annually or every 10,000 crimps depending on which comes first.
Q: What tool manufacturers and models are ZoomLock MAX jaws compatible?A: Please refer to the Press Tool Compatibility table below.
A: Check jaws at the latest one year after the purchase or after 10,000 pressings (according to whichever occurs first) by an authorized Rothenberger testing center. Repeat these checks at the latest one year or another 10,000 pressings after the previous inspection. During jaw inspection, check the jaws for operating and functional safety and wear parts (e.g., springs). Functionally and operationally safe jaws are returned.
Q: Where can replacement batteries and chargers be purchased?A: That is tool dependent; check the tool manufacturer owner’s manual.
Q: Can you use ZoomLock MAX to crimp to aluminum, steel, or stainless steel?A: ZoomLock MAX is designed explicitly for copper to copper connections.
Q: What standards and codes is ZoomLock MAX compliant with, and what approvals does it hold?UL Listed: Refrigerant fitting SA7511.
UL Listed: Approved use for field and factory installations.
UL 109 - 7 Pull test is compliant.
UL 109 - 8 Vibration test is compliant.
UL 1963 - 79 Tests of Gaskets and Seals used in Refrigerant Systems compliant.
ISO 5149-2:2014, Refrigerating systems, and heat pumps - Safety and environmental requirements - Part 2: Design, construction, testing, marking and documentation, compliant.
ISO 5149-2 - 5.3.2.2.3 Strength pressure test is compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.4 Tightness test is compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.6 Pressure temperature vibration tests (PTV) compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.8 Freezing test is compliant.
ASTM G85 -11 Standard Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing compliant.
ASHRAE 15 - 2016 Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems compliant.
ASME B31.5 - 2016 Refrigeration Piping and Heat Transfer Components compliant.
2018, 2015 - 2012, 2009, and 2006 International Mechanical Code (IMC), certified ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
2018, 2015, 2012, 2009 and 2006 International Residential Code (IRC), certified ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
2018, 2015, 2012, 2009, and 2006 Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), certified, ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
A: Yes, ZoomLock MAX is a press fitting system for use with hard, half-hard, or annealed copper tube conforming to EN12735-1 or ASTM-B280.
Q: What is the guarantee on ZoomLock MAX fittings?A: The product has a 10-year guarantee from the first date of purchase.
Q: What is the material used to make the O-ring?A: Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (HNBR).
Q: What is the expected life of the O-ring in the system?A: The expected life of the O-ring, if used within the product specifications for temperature and pressure, is at least 25 years. The product has a 10-year guarantee from the first date of purchase.
Q: Are there any storage issues, including where the fittings are stored in vehicles and exposed to extremes of high or low temperature?A: No, the product is not subject to degradation under normal storage conditions, provided it is kept in original packaging and not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
The time-saving solution for HVACR technicians and contractors
ZoomLock MAX technology provides a leak-proof connection, eliminating brazing, flames, fire spotters, or risks from installing traditional HVACR fittings. Now, HVACR technicians and contractors can install piping in seconds with NO torch, NO hot work permits, and NO fire safety equipment.
Ready to learn more? Visit the ZoomLock MAX website to download the full FAQs sheet, schedule a demo, watch it in action, get training support, locate a distributor, and get started today!
Article contributed by Chris Reeves, product manager, Contaminant Control Products, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin. For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
Related, helpful content for you:
ZoomLock MAX Press-to-Connect Refrigerant Fittings FAQs–Part 1
34 Frequently Asked Questions on the Smart Service Tool Kit
HVACR Tech Tip: Refrigerant Piping Expansion and Contraction
HVACR Tech Tip: Interchangeable Cartridge Style Thermostatic Expansion Valves Save Time & Money
25 Sep 2020
ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect refrigerant fittings are changing the way HVACR professionals connect refrigerant lines. By using ZoomLock MAX, you, the HVACR technician can connect refrigerant lines in seconds, boosting efficiency while providing the safety and reliability you expect from Parker.
This post is the second in our series providing answers to the top FAQs on ZoomLock MAX fittings. The answers cover crimping, jaws, tools, and compliance.
Applications
ZoomLock MAX fittings are designed for the following applications:
Refrigeration
Air Conditioning
Heat Pump (Refrigeration Side)
Download the full list of FAQs in this handy guide and learn more about ZoomLock MAX.
Q: Where do I crimp ZoomLock MAX fittings?
A: Crimp with the jaw straddling directly over the O-ring section of the fitting, as in the image below.
Q: How many crimps can you complete on a complete battery charge?
A: That is tool dependent; consult the tool manufacturers owner’s manual.
Q: How do you know when to service the tool?A: That is tool dependent; consult the tool manufactures owner’s manual.
Q: What is the expected life of the jaws?A: ZoomLock MAX jaws are laser hardened and have a finite life expectancy. We encourage each customer to have the jaws and tools serviced and checked annually or every 10,000 crimps depending on which comes first.
Q: What tool manufacturers and models are ZoomLock MAX jaws compatible?A: Please refer to the Press Tool Compatibility table below.
A: Check jaws at the latest one year after the purchase or after 10,000 pressings (according to whichever occurs first) by an authorized Rothenberger testing center. Repeat these checks at the latest one year or another 10,000 pressings after the previous inspection. During jaw inspection, check the jaws for operating and functional safety and wear parts (e.g., springs). Functionally and operationally safe jaws are returned.
Q: Where can replacement batteries and chargers be purchased?A: That is tool dependent; check the tool manufacturer owner’s manual.
Q: Can you use ZoomLock MAX to crimp to aluminum, steel, or stainless steel?A: ZoomLock MAX is designed explicitly for copper to copper connections.
Q: What standards and codes is ZoomLock MAX compliant with, and what approvals does it hold?UL Listed: Refrigerant fitting SA7511.
UL Listed: Approved use for field and factory installations.
UL 109 - 7 Pull test is compliant.
UL 109 - 8 Vibration test is compliant.
UL 1963 - 79 Tests of Gaskets and Seals used in Refrigerant Systems compliant.
ISO 5149-2:2014, Refrigerating systems, and heat pumps - Safety and environmental requirements - Part 2: Design, construction, testing, marking and documentation, compliant.
ISO 5149-2 - 5.3.2.2.3 Strength pressure test is compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.4 Tightness test is compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.6 Pressure temperature vibration tests (PTV) compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.8 Freezing test is compliant.
ASTM G85 -11 Standard Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing compliant.
ASHRAE 15 - 2016 Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems compliant.
ASME B31.5 - 2016 Refrigeration Piping and Heat Transfer Components compliant.
2018, 2015 - 2012, 2009, and 2006 International Mechanical Code (IMC), certified ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
2018, 2015, 2012, 2009 and 2006 International Residential Code (IRC), certified ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
2018, 2015, 2012, 2009, and 2006 Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), certified, ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
A: Yes, ZoomLock MAX is a press fitting system for use with hard, half-hard, or annealed copper tube conforming to EN12735-1 or ASTM-B280.
Q: What is the guarantee on ZoomLock MAX fittings?A: The product has a 10-year guarantee from the first date of purchase.
Q: What is the material used to make the O-ring?A: Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (HNBR).
Q: What is the expected life of the O-ring in the system?A: The expected life of the O-ring, if used within the product specifications for temperature and pressure, is at least 25 years. The product has a 10-year guarantee from the first date of purchase.
Q: Are there any storage issues, including where the fittings are stored in vehicles and exposed to extremes of high or low temperature?A: No, the product is not subject to degradation under normal storage conditions, provided it is kept in original packaging and not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
The time-saving solution for HVACR technicians and contractors
ZoomLock MAX technology provides a leak-proof connection, eliminating brazing, flames, fire spotters, or risks from installing traditional HVACR fittings. Now, HVACR technicians and contractors can install piping in seconds with NO torch, NO hot work permits, and NO fire safety equipment.
Ready to learn more? Visit the ZoomLock MAX website to download the full FAQs sheet, schedule a demo, watch it in action, get training support, locate a distributor, and get started today!
Article contributed by Chris Reeves, product manager, Contaminant Control Products, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin. For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
Related, helpful content for you:
ZoomLock MAX Press-to-Connect Refrigerant Fittings FAQs–Part 1
34 Frequently Asked Questions on the Smart Service Tool Kit
HVACR Tech Tip: Refrigerant Piping Expansion and Contraction
HVACR Tech Tip: Interchangeable Cartridge Style Thermostatic Expansion Valves Save Time & Money
25 Sep 2020
Parker Sporlan’s ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect refrigerant fittings, designed for the air conditioning and refrigeration markets, allows HVACR contractors to make secure leak-free connections in seconds. That equates to less time on the job and more profit for your business.
ZoomLock MAX provides a clean, leakproof connection for refrigerant lines up to 700 psi. By eliminating concerns about gas and flames, ZoomLock MAX gives you more flexibility in where and when you can work, plus there is no need to nitrogen-purge the lines. This post is the first of three blogs answering your top FAQs on the product.
Applications
ZoomLock MAX fittings are designed for the following applications:
Refrigeration
Air Conditioning
Heat Pump (Refrigeration Side)
Download the full list of FAQs in this handy guide and learn more about ZoomLock MAX.
Q: My jaws sometimes get stuck on the fitting after crimping. What can I do to make it easier to remove the jaws?
A: Applying a thin coating of WD-40 or similar lubricant to the jaw before starting a job should help.
Q: Why is it significant that ZoomLock MAX is “UL Listed”?
A: UL Listed provides approval by UL for field and factory installation. UL Recognized products limit products to being factory installed only.
Q: What is the #1 suggestion to ensure safety?A: Follow all our steps on prep and installation.
Q: What is the #1 cause of leaky fittings?A: Possibly, skipping the prep and installation steps causes the tube to leak.
Q: What is a “deep” scratch, and how do you clean this?A: Your fingernail can feel a deep scratch. Try using a new piece of Scotch-Brite abrasive pad. Alternatively, use a 340 grit sandpaper/cloth.
Q: Can you show an example of a “good” copper tube surface after sanding?
A: Use the depth gauge provided or the Minimum Insertion Depth chart below (Table 1) to determine the correct insertion depth. Mark the tubing with a permanent marker to indicate proper insertion depth on every tube.
Q: Do you have a solution for crimping onto swaged tubing like that coming out of the condenser and evaporator on residential units?
A: No, we do not have a specific product designed to crimp over the swaged tubing. However, if there are at least 2 inches of straight copper tubing after the flared end and is accessible with the jaws, you may cut the flared end off and crimp directly to the tube.
A: See Table 2.
A: See Table 3.
Solutions for HVACR technicians and contractors
ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect flame-free refrigerant fittings are popular with HVACR contractors and technicians who are looking for more flexibility, safety, and efficiency. The biggest benefit of that improved efficiency is more productivity and increased profit potential for you!
Visit the ZoomLock MAX website to learn more, get engineering support, locate a distributor near you, and get started today!
Article contributed by Chris Reeves, product manager, Contaminant Control Products, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin. For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
Related, helpful content for you:
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - Q&A Part 1
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - FAQs Part 2
HVACR Tech Tip: Top 5 FAQs About Thermostatic Expansion Valves (TEVs)
HVACR Tech Tip: Maintaining Refrigerant Flow in Thermostatic Expansion Valves
16 Sep 2020
As we introduced our Parker Sporlan webinar series we realized that we couldn't possibly answer all the questions in that short amount of time. We decided to create Climate Control blogs to answer some of the more pressing questions. This is the second of three blogs answering questions from our Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs.
TEV - Balanced Port Valves
Q: In my experience, balanced port valves can operate at a much lower pressure drop than a standard valve. Is this correct? And why do they work much better at a lower head pressure in the winter?
A: Balanced port valves are typically utilized to neutralize the opening force on a TEV that could be contributed by high side pressure. This comes into consideration with high-pressure refrigerants, like R-410A, and large capacity systems. The Balanced Port does allow the valve to modulate down to approximately 25% of rated valve capacity vs. 30% for a non-balanced or conventional valve. Customers have selected oversized balanced port valves for some applications. This selection technique contributes to the valve's ability to adequately function in winter conditions in the absence of head pressure controls.
Q: What applications require balanced port valves versus internally or externally equalized valves?
A: Balanced port valves are used in many applications ranging from small refrigeration units to large air conditioning systems. Please refer to the previous Question and Answer for more details regarding balanced port valves. Internally equalized valves sample evaporator pressure at the valve's outlet fitting and are suitable for use on systems with low-pressure drop across the evaporator coil. Externally equalized valves sample evaporator pressure at the installation point of the equalizer line. This is typically downstream from the sensing bulb of the Thermostatic Expansion Valve. An externally equalized valve is required if the pressure drop across the evaporator is high or a distributor is fitted in the system.
Q: Are balanced port valves available as either internally or externally equalized? And do they come in larger tonnage for HVAC?
A: Yes, balanced port valves are available as internally equalized and externally equalized versions. Balanced port valves are available in small, fractional tonnage capacities and are available up to 70 tons and more depending upon the refrigerant and the application.
TEV - Adjustment
Q: What is the part number of that superheat adjustment tool? This information would be handy for our technicians.
A: The superheat adjustment tool is only available through the Sporlan Store. Please contact your Sporlan Field Sales Engineer for assistance.
Q: Packing nut versus adjustment nut, is this the same item?
A: No, these two items are not the same. Some TEVs are manufactured with a packing nut. The packing nut is used to loosen or tighten the adjustment stem packing material around the adjustment stem. The adjusting stem is used to change the superheat setting of the TEV, and it may be accessed once the seal cap has been removed. If the TEV has a packing nut, it must first be loosened in order to allow the adjustment stem to be easily turned to set superheat. The packing nut must then be retightened to reduce leakage around the adjustment stem. Finally, the seal cap must be reinstalled as the final protective measure against leaks.
Q: Have you had issues with turning the adjustment too far and turning the disc to where it will not allow you to adjust the valve anymore?
A: It is possible to damage the adjustment mechanism on a TEV through abuse by using a wrench that is too large, etc. While this is not common, it can happen. If it does, either replace the valve or replace the adjustable bottom cap assembly.
TEV - Thermostatic Charge
Q: When is it recommended to use a ZP thermostatic charge?
A: Use the ZP thermostatic charge for low-temperature refrigeration systems, with evaporator temperatures ranging from 0ᵒF down to -40ᵒF, and when it is necessary to limit evaporator pressure during pulldown.
Q: What is the difference between Z and ZP thermostatic charge?
A: The Z and ZP thermostatic charges have the same low temperature operating range. Use both for evaporators with temperatures ranging from 0ᵒF down to -40ᵒF. However, the ZP has the maximum operating pressure feature built into the thermostatic charge and can limit evaporator pressure during pulldown. The Z thermostatic charge does not include this feature. The Z and ZP thermostatic charges are not intended as replacements, and each serves its own unique purpose.
For more information on TEVs see Parker Sporlan Bulletin 10-10-8, Bulletin 10-9, Bulletin 10-10.
For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
Article contributed by Jim Jansen, senior application engineer, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin
Additional resources on HVACR Tech Tips:
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - Q&A Part 1
HVACR Tech Tip: Understanding and Preventing Superheat Hunting in TEVs
26 Aug 2020
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