When the refrigerator Atlant stops freezing or making noise extraneous sounds, many owners immediately think about self-diagnosis. One of the common causes of compressor failure is a lack or complete depletion of lubricant. The question of how much oil is in the compressor of the Atlant refrigerator becomes critically important when planning repairs.
Manufacturers of household appliances rarely indicate the exact volumes of liquids in technical data sheets, since the system is sealed and does not require user maintenance. However, for masters and experienced amateurs there are average technical standards. Typically, in Belarusian-made units, the amount of lubricant varies depending on the motor model, but most often it is small.
Incorrect determination of the fluid level can lead to water hammer or, conversely, to jamming of the moving parts of the mechanism. Therefore, it is important to understand that simply topping up “by eye” will not work here. Dosage accuracy plays a decisive role in the durability of the restored unit.
Technical characteristics of Atlant compressors
Refrigerators Atlant equipped with compressors of various series, which can be either piston or (less often in older models) rotary. The most common models are marked 45, 55, 60 and 90 series. Each of them has its own design features that affect the volume of oil required. Piston compressors require lubrication of rubbing parts and heat removal.
The oil volume in the crankcase of such devices usually ranges from 150 to 250 milliliters. However, the exact figure depends on the specific modification of the motor. For example, for popular series models CK60CY or CK75CY factory tolerances may differ. It is important to consider that when changing the oil, some of it always remains in the system, so complete drainage is impossible without dismantling and purging.
The table below shows approximate data on the volume of oil for the most common types of compressors installed on equipment Atlant:
| Compressor series | Approximate volume (ml) | Refrigerant type | Oil type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Series 45 (MKA..) | 160 - 180 | R12 | Mineral |
| Series 55 (CK..) | 180 - 200 | R134a | Synthetics |
| Series 60 (CK..) | 200 - 220 | R134a | Synthetics |
| Series 90 (CK..) | 220 - 250 | R134a/R600a | Synthetics |
It is worth noting that these figures are for reference. When carrying out major repairs oil change it is often carried out not in full volume, but by repeated flushing, since it is almost impossible to completely pour out the old waste. Using a syringe for pumping allows you to get as close as possible to the factory parameters.
⚠️ Attention: The data in the table is relevant for standard factory configurations. If your refrigerator has been repaired before, the oil volume in the system can be changed by an unqualified technician. Always check the condition of the compressor before starting.
What kind of oil is needed for replacement
Choosing the right type of lubricant is no less important than determining its quantity. Refrigerators Atlant use two main types of oils, and mixing them is strictly prohibited. A chemical reaction between different bases can lead to the formation of acid, which will corrode the motor windings and damage the compressor.
For older models running on freon R12mineral oils were traditionally used. They have high viscosity and are well compatible with old seal materials. However, modern units operating on refrigerants R134a and R600arequire the use of synthetic polyester oils (POE). These oils are hygroscopic and quickly absorb moisture from the air.
- 🧪 Mineral oils: used in retro models, do not mix with synthetics, have a yellowish tint.
- 💧 Synthetic oils (POE): transparent, require sealed storage, used with modern refrigerants.
- 🚫 Prohibition of mixing: Even a small amount of mineral oil in a synthetic system can cause blockage of the capillary tube.
When purchasing oil, pay attention to the labeling. For compressors Atlant most often recommended oil brands Emkarate, Bitzer or specialized analogues recommended by the manufacturer. You should not use automotive or industrial oils, as they do not have the necessary dielectric properties and can cause a short circuit.
Is it possible to use oil from another brand of compressor?
Yes, you can, if two conditions are met: the type of base (mineral or synthetic) and viscosity are the same. The brand of the oil manufacturer (Shell, Mobil, Bitzer) does not matter, the main thing is the chemical composition and compliance with the specifications for refrigeration equipment.
Symptoms of oil shortage or production
It is possible to determine that there is little oil in the compressor Atlant or it has lost its properties by a number of indirect signs. The lubrication system in a sealed unit works on the principle of splashing, and over time the oil burns out or decomposes. This leads to increased friction and heating.
The first sign is often a change in the sound background. The compressor begins to hum louder than usual, and metallic knocking or clanging sounds appear. This suggests that bearings and the piston group are working “dry”. If you do not respond to these signals, the motor may jam.
It is also worth paying attention to the temperature of the housing. During normal operation, the compressor becomes hot, but not to the point where it cannot be touched. Overheating is often accompanied by burning or scorched insulation odors. In some cases, an oily coating may appear on the tubes near the compressor, which indicates a violation of the tightness of the seals.
The process of changing the oil yourself
Changing the oil in a refrigerator compressor Atlant is a complex procedure and requires caution. It is not included in the list of operations that the manufacturer recommends performing independently, as it requires breaking the tightness of the system. However, if you have the skills and tools, this is possible.
First you need to disconnect the refrigerator from the network and gain access to the compressor. It is usually located in a niche at the bottom rear of the unit. Remove the protective cover. Next, you need to carefully bite off the filling tube (fitting) on the compressor body with pliers. It is through this that filling and vacuuming take place.
The replacement process is as follows:
- 🔧 Draining the waste: turn over the refrigerator or tilt the compressor to pour the old oil through the open fitting into the prepared container.
- 💨 Flushing: fill in a small amount of new oil, shake the compressor and drain it. Repeat 2-3 times to remove any remaining old lubricant.
- 📏 Refilling: draw the exact volume of new oil into the syringe (according to the table above) and slowly pour it through the fitting.
- 🔒 Sealing: immediately clamp the tube or install a new service valve so that moisture does not get inside.
Therefore, simply changing the oil without subsequent evacuation of the system and charging with freon will not lead to the restoration of cold. Vacuum pump necessary to remove air and water vapor that can freeze in capillary.
⚠️ Attention: When working with the compressor, follow safety precautions. There may be residual pressure inside. Do not allow oil to come into contact with exposed skin or eyes.
Checking the level and quality of lubricant
How can you tell if the poured oil is of the right quality? Visually fresh synthetic oil for R134a must be transparent, without suspensions or dark tint. If you drained the liquid and it is black, cloudy or has a burning smell, it means that the compressor was operating under extreme conditions.
Checking the level in an already operating or mothballed compressor without opening it is impossible. However, there is an indirect diagnostic method through analysis of system operation. If, after filling with freon, the compressor runs quietly and the refrigeration chamber gains temperature, then the lubricant is performing its function.
There is an opinion that the oil level can be checked by lowering your finger into the fitting. This is an erroneous and dangerous method. Firstly, you will introduce moisture, and secondly, you will not feel the exact level. The only reliable way is to weigh the drained liquid or use a measuring syringe when refueling.
Frequent errors during maintenance
Independent repair of refrigerators Atlant is often associated with errors that can finally finish off the equipment. One of the most common is using the wrong oil. Filling a spindle or car grinding in the hope of “lubricating” the mechanism leads to rapid failure of the entire refrigeration system.
Another mistake is overdose. Some masters pour oil “with reserve”, believing that the porridge cannot be spoiled with oil. In the case of a compressor, this is fatal. Excess oil causes it to enter the cooling circuit, clog the capillary tube and drastically reduce the efficiency of heat transfer. The compressor begins to work with overload.
Do not forget about cleanliness. Any speck of dust that gets into the system can become a center of crystallization or clog the filter drier. All operations must be carried out in a clean room, and tools must be degreased.
☑️ Checklist before starting
When repairs are impractical
Sometimes the question “how much oil” becomes secondary. If the compressor Atlant has mechanical damage, burnt out windings or twisted bearings, replacing the lubricant will not help. In such cases, a complete replacement of the unit is required.
The cost of a new compressor and its installation (soldering, vacuuming, refilling with freon) can be up to 70% of the price of a new refrigerator. Therefore, if your unit is more than 10-12 years old, it is often more profitable to purchase new equipment than to revive the old one.
However, if the problem was precisely coking of the oil or its burnout, and the motor itself is intact, then proper washing and replacement of lubricant can give the refrigerator Atlant a second life. The main thing is to follow the technology and use high-quality materials.
Is it possible to add oil to a working refrigerator without opening it?
No, this is impossible. The system is sealed and under pressure. Adding oil without breaking the circuit and subsequent evacuation will lead to depressurization and moisture ingress, which will cause corrosion and ice jam.
How often do you need to change the oil in the Atlant compressor?
In factory conditions, the oil is designed for the entire service life of the refrigerator (10-15 years). Forced replacement is required only during repairs, moisture entering the system or when signs of coking and overheating appear.
What is dangerous about mixing mineral and synthetic oil?
Mixing leads to sedimentation, loss of lubricating properties and the formation of an acidic environment. This causes corrosion of the internal parts of the compressor and clogging of the narrow channels of the system.
Where can I find the exact model of the compressor on my refrigerator?
The model and technical specifications are indicated on the sticker located on the body of the compressor itself (the metal “barrel” at the back of the refrigerator), as well as in the technical data sheet of the product.