LUBRICANTS: What lubricants can be used with HFOs / A2Ls?

HFO and A2L refrigerants should only be used in equipment that is designed for use with HFO or A2L refrigerants and therefore the oil in the system should be suitable for use.

If oil levels need topping up, it is recommended to use the same oil type or check with the compressor manufacturer if other lubricants are approved. In general, the same lubricants are used with A2Ls as with non-flammable HFC refrigerants.

The majority of oils used will be POE based lubricants, but just as with HFCs, suitable PAG based lubricants could also be used. Some manufacturers of equipment using R-32 specify the use of PVE based lubricants but there are also suitable POE based lubricants for R-32.

Some HFOs have a higher solubility in the oil which in a few cases may mean a higher viscosity oil is recommended compared to what would have been used with HFC refrigerants.

Mineral and alkyl benzene based lubricants are not suitable for use with HFO and A2L refrigerants.