Compressor HVAC: Description and Operation
A/C COMPRESSORDESCRIPTION
Vehicles equipped with the 2.0 L and 2.4L Turbo engine use the Sanden TRS - 090 A/C compressor.
Vehicles equipped with the 2.4L NA and 2.7L engines use the Visteon HS-15 A/C compressor.
Both A/C compressors are fixed displacement type compressors and use a high pressure relief valve to protect the A/C system from excessive refrigerant pressures. The Sanden TRS - 090 A/C compressor uses an integral thermal limiter switch to protect it from overheating and the HS-15 A/C compressor has a replaceable compressor manifold which contains the fittings for the refrigerant lines and the high pressure relief valve.
CAUTION: The refrigerant oil in the R-134a A/C system is unique depending on the A/C compressor used. Use only PAG oils that are designed to work with R-134a refrigerant and the A/C compressor in the vehicle. Always refer to the underhood A/C System Specification Label for the correct oil designation.
Both A/C systems uses polyalkylene glycol synthetic wax-free refrigerant oil PAG (refer to the underhood A/C system label for the correct oil type for the A/C compressor used in the system (depending on engine application).
OPERATION
The A/C compressor is driven by the engine through an electric clutch, drive pulley and belt arrangement. The A/C compressor is lubricated by refrigerant oil that is circulated throughout the refrigerant system with the refrigerant.
The A/C compressor draws in low-pressure refrigerant vapor from the A/C evaporator through its suction port. It then compresses the refrigerant into a high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant vapor, which is then pumped to the A/C condenser through the compressor discharge port.
The A/C compressor cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced. The compressor clutch, pulley and bearing assembly, and clutch field coil are available for service. If an internal failure of the A/C compressor has occurred, the receiver/drier must also be replaced.