Refrigeration oils, also called
lubricating oil, are utilized to lubricate various parts that cool and
pressurize incoming refrigerant liquid to a high-pressure vapor that then flows
out of a closed system of the tubing into an air handler. Refrigeration oils
also lubricate compressors, freezers, chillers, motors, and fans. Refrigeration
oil is typically used in consumer appliances such as freezers and
refrigerators. The demand for such products has increased over the years with
rising consumption of frozen food. Besides, these appliances are widely used in
the pharmaceutical industry during drug discovery. As per the India Brand
Equity Foundation (IBEF), the Indian pharmaceutical market was valued at US$
20.03 billion in 2019, increasing by US$ 18.12 in 2018. Hence, robust
development of this end-use sector can stimulate growth of the refrigeration
oil market.
Refrigeration
oils are
generally categorized into five categories based on their viscosity or
thickness. The first category, the light oil, has a low density and a low
melting point; it is primarily needed in the car to reduce friction and
transfer heat. The second category, the dark oil, has a medium-density and a
higher melting point; it is often used in industrial refrigeration systems for
increasing compression strength and decreasing refrigeration time. Over the
years, the demand for consumer appliances such as air-conditioning,
refrigerators, and coolers has increased significantly across the globe. This
is typically due to the fact there has been a robust economic development with
continuous urbanization in both developed and emerging economies. As a result
of this, the demand for refrigeration is growing rapidly, subsequently
augmenting growth of the refrigeration oil market.
Recently, in January 2021, HB
Products launched a new oil level switch HBSO-HP for heat pumps.
When it comes to regional footprint,
Asia Pacific seems to be gaining rapid traction in the refrigeration oil market
since there is high demand for consumer electronic appliances such as air
conditioners, refrigerators, and more. On the contrary, Europe is exhibiting
promising signs due to rising manufacturing of automobiles for both domestic
consumption.
Another important aspect of
refrigeration oil is that to ensure the proper amount of lubricant is present
in the lines. Not having enough refrigeration oil in the system will lead to
system operation problems. Regardless, there are certain stringent regulations
that potentially limit the use of fluorocarbon refrigerants. Besides, the
compatibility of refrigeration oil with refrigerators is another major
challenge that could impede growth of the refrigeration oil market in the near
future.
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