29
Suction Filter
Replaceable core suction filters are supplied as standard on
all units. The flanged shell holds replaceable pleated filter
elements suitable for installation in the suction line of
refrigeration systems. In this way any contaminants left in the
system at start-up can be removed before they circulate back
to the compressor. The suction filters are shipped loose for
field installation. (See No. 3 of Leak Checking, Evacuation,
and Start-up section in this manual).

Compressor Motor Burnout Cleanup

Procedure

Another benefit of the suction filter is its use in cleanup of a
system after a burnout. Standard liquid cores can be
installed in the shell to aid in the cleanup of acids and other
contaminants from a motor burnout.
The following procedure can be used in case of a motor
burnout.
1. Determine the extent of the burnout. For mild
burnout’s where contamination has not spread through
the system, it may be economical to save the
refrigerant. Normally it is economical to save the
refrigeration charge if the system has service valves.
A severe burnout exists if the oil is discolored, an acid
odor is present and contamination products are found
in the high and low side. With this condition, extreme
caution should be exercised to avoid breathing the
acid vapors and to prevent contaminated liquid from
making contact with the skin.
2. Thoroughly clean and replace all system controls, such
as expansion valves, solenoids, check valves,
reversing valves, oil separators, suction accumulators,
etc. Remove all strainers and filter-driers.
3. Install a replacement compressor and make a
complete electrical check.
4. Make sure the suction line adjacent to the compressor
is clean. Install a liquid line filter-drier or a replaceable
cartridge designed for “cleanup” into the suction line
shell.
5. Install a burnout core in the liquid line shell.
6. If the refrigerant is removed from the system, follow
the evacuation procedure found on page 17 of this
manual.
7. Start the compressor and put the system in operation.
Record the pressure drop across the suction line filter
and keep for reference.
8. Replace the suction line filter-drier blocks if the
pressure drop becomes excessive.
9. Observe the system during the first 4 hours. Repeat
step 8 as often as required, until no further change in
pressure drop is observed.
10. After the system has been in operation for 48 hours,
check the condition of the oil for Acids. If the oil test
indicates an acid condition, replace the liquid and
suction line filter-driers.
11. Check the
system again
after
approximately 2
weeks of
operation. If the
oil is still
discolored, or
checks acid,
replace the
liquid and
suction line
filter-driers.
12. Cleanup is
complete when
the oil is clean,
odor free, and is
determined to
be acceptable
by testing for
acids or other contaminants.
13. Replace the suction line filter-drier with suction line
filters cores to minimize suction line pressure drop and
to provide maximum compressor protection.
For more detailed information on burnout cleanup procedures
and recommendations, consult the

RSES Service Manual,

section 91

.

Sporlan Valve Company

Replaceable Suction Filter
The correct replacement suction filter element in Sporlan
Valve replaceable shells is Sporlan part number RFE-48-BD.
However any suitable filter that is sized to fit a 48 cu. inch
vessel will substitute.