Compatibility of BITZER products
BITZER has tested the currently used elastomer gaskets of the compressors for the application with R404A, R507A, R134a also for application with unsaturated hydrofluorocarbons (HFO) like R1234yf and R1234ze(E). This covers also the blends containing these, like R448A, R449A, R450A and R513A.
Reciprocating compressors
Since introduction of the BITZER ECOLINE in 2013, the elastomer gaskets of the reciprocating compressors of BITZER are suitable as stated above.
The gaskets used in the reciprocating compressors before are considered a low risk only.
Elastomer gaskets are used at the oil pump, the oil sight glass and on open type compressors also in the shaft seal.
On semi hermetic compressors without oil pump, elastomer gaskets are used only at the oil sight glass.
On compressors manufactured before 2010, a change of the gaskets is recommended. If the gasket surface is opened during maintenance, an exchange is recommended, too.
On open type compressors, a preventive change of the shaft seal is recommended to reduce the risk of loss of new refrigerant.
Screw compressors
BITZER screw compressors contain more elastomer gaskets. The currently used gaskets are suitable as stated above.
On compressors manufactured before 2010, a change of the gaskets is recommended. If the gasket surface is opened during maintenance, an exchange is recommended, too.
On open type compressors, a preventive change of the shaft seal is recommended to reduce the risk of loss of new refrigerant.