AC-2341 (RP-109) -- Pressure Loss of Refrigerant-Oil Mixtures in Horizontal Pipes PDF

This paper describes the first phase results of an experimental study in oil transport. Background information has been given in an earlier publication.

To begin the study of oil transport by refrigerant vapor in horizontal pipes of various diameters, an elaborate apparatus was constructed. With prescribed amounts of oil flow in the test section, the pressure drop and void fraction were experimentally measured. The specific fluids used in this study were R-12 and 150 SUS oil.

Data correlation was then obtained for the pressure drop in 1/2, 1, and 3 inch inside diameter pipes. Verification of the correlation between other refrigerants and oils and a study of vertical flows will be the subject of future work.