Bitzer 4J‑13.2Y‑40P Compressor: How to Read and Use the Nameplate Data

The Bitzer 4J‑13.2Y‑40P is a semi‑hermetic reciprocating compressor widely used in commercial refrigeration and process cooling installations around the world. It is designed for three‑phase power supplies and offers reliable operation in medium‑ to high‑temperature applications. Understanding its nameplate is essential for safe commissioning, correct electrical connection, and accurate system sizing.

Electrical characteristics

The identification plate lists the nominal three‑phase voltage ranges of 380–420 V at 50 Hz and 440–480 V at 60 Hz, showing that this model is suitable for international grids and export equipment. This flexibility allows installers to deploy the same compressor frame in regions with different mains standards, provided the motor protection and wiring are adjusted accordingly.​

At 50 Hz, the maximum running current is specified at 27 A, while the starting current in star (Y) connection reaches 81 A and in part‑winding (YY) configuration 132 A. At 60 Hz, the maximum running current remains 27 A, but the higher frequency increases the starting demand and speed, so the electrical design of contactors, circuit‑breakers and cables must respect these values.​

Key electrical data

Parameter	50 Hz value	60 Hz value
Nominal voltage	380–420 V	440–480 V
Max. running current	27 A	27 A
Starting current (Y)	81 A	81 A
Starting current (YY)	132 A	132 A

Performance and operating limits

The nameplate also indicates the theoretical displacement flow rate and motor speed for each frequency. At 50 Hz the compressor delivers 63.5 m³/h at 1450 rpm, while at 60 Hz the flow rises to 76.7 m³/h at 1750 rpm, which directly influences cooling capacity and requires recalculation of expansion valve and piping selections when changing frequency. These figures are important for designers who convert catalog capacities to real site conditions, especially in retrofits where a 50 Hz machine is driven from a 60 Hz supply or via a frequency inverter.​

The enclosure rating is IP54, and the plate notes the combination “ND/HD max. 19/28 bar”, indicating the maximum permissible operating pressure on the low‑ and high‑pressure sides of the compressor shell. Respecting these limits is crucial for safety valves, pressure switches and leak testing procedures during commissioning and maintenance.​

Performance snapshot

Frequency	Flow rate (m³/h)	Speed (rpm)	Max. shell pressure (ND/HD)
50 Hz	63.5	1450	19 / 28 bar
60 Hz	76.7	1750	19 / 28 bar

Practical guidance for installers

For installers and service technicians, the nameplate of the 4J‑13.2Y‑40P acts as the main reference for electrical protection settings, cable sizing and motor starting method. Checking that the site voltage matches one of the listed ranges is a first step before any connection, followed by the choice between star‑delta, part‑winding or direct‑on‑line starting depending on the available switchgear and network capacity. The running current values help to set thermal overload relays and electronic motor protection units, reducing the risk of nuisance trips or motor damage under heavy load.​

During commissioning, technicians should also compare the actual operating pressures and temperatures with the limits derived from Bitzer’s application range diagrams for this model. This ensures that the compressor runs within its safe envelope when paired with modern refrigerants, oil types and system designs recommended by the manufacturer. Such discipline is especially important for demanding applications like supermarket racks, process chillers and cold‑storage plants where the 4J‑13.2Y‑40P is often installed.​

Documentation and further resources

Bitzer provides full technical information, performance curves and motor data sheets for the 4J‑13.2Y‑40P, which complement the basic figures printed on the nameplate. These documents are available in the official digital library and are regularly updated to reflect changes in approved refrigerants, oils and electrical components. Engineers and technicians should always consult the latest documentation before selecting replacement compressors or redesigning existing installations, as updated guidelines may affect allowed operating envelopes and accessory choices.​

Copeland ZB50KCE Scroll Compressor Nameplate: How to Read the Label and Choose the Right Polyester Oil

The photo shows the damaged nameplate of a Copeland ZB50KCE scroll compressor, factory‑charged with polyester (POE) oil for medium‑temperature refrigeration. Correctly interpreting this label helps technicians confirm oil, power, voltage and safety limits during service or replacement.​

Compressor identification

The model belongs to the Copeland ZB series, used in commercial cold rooms and process cooling for refrigerants such as R404A, R134a and R22 alternatives. Depending on voltage code (TFD‑551, TFD‑950, etc.), it is sold as a 7 hp medium‑temperature compressor with around 11.9 kW nominal capacity.​

• Model code example: ZB50KCE‑TFD‑551 or ZB50KCE‑TFD‑950.​
• Technology: Hermetic scroll, part of the Summit series designed for higher seasonal efficiency.​

Polyester oil (POE) on the label

The upper part of the label still shows POLYESTER OIL, confirming that the compressor is charged with POE lubricant. Catalogues list oil charges of about 2.6–2.7 l using approved POE types such as RL32‑3MAF or Mobil EAL Arctic 22 CC, depending on the variant.​

• POE oil absorbs moisture quickly, so systems must be evacuated deeply and fitted with quality filter‑driers.​
• Only compatible POE grades should be added; mixing with mineral or alkylbenzene oil is not permitted.​

Technical data with hp and W

The following table compiles typical data for a Copeland ZB50KCE‑TFD‑551 running as a medium‑temperature refrigeration compressor; values may vary slightly by refrigerant and exact model.​

Parameter	Typical value for ZB50KCE*
Nominal power	7 hp​
Nominal capacity	11.9 kW cooling (≈11 900 W)​
Electrical power input	≈7.5–7.9 kW depending on conditions​
Displacement	19.8 m³/h​
Supply voltage	380–420 V/3/50 Hz and 460 V/3/60 Hz (TFD code)​
Maximum operating current	14.6 A​
Locked‑rotor current	≈100 A​
Oil type	POE (e.g. RL32‑3MAF)​
Oil quantity	2.6–2.7 l​
Sound level	≈64 dBA at 1 m​
Net weight	≈59 kg (TFD‑551)​

*Always confirm with the exact data sheet for your compressor code.​

Voltage and operating limits on the sticker

On the lower part of the photographed label, remnants of “Volt 1 380 … Volt 2 460” can be identified, matching the dual‑voltage three‑phase motor used in TFD models. Another line mentions maximum current around 14.6 A, which is the value used to size breakers, contactors and cables.​

• The TFD motor code indicates 380–420 V/3/50 Hz and 460 V/3/60 Hz with internal motor protection.​
• Respecting these limits and using proper overload protection prevents overheating and nuisance trips in commercial installations.​

Practical maintenance notes

For technicians such as those in Mbsmgroup and Mbsm.pro, a faded nameplate is common on older units, but the combination of model code and official catalogue restores all critical information. Creating a new service label with hp, kW, voltage, POE oil type and charge simplifies future troubleshooting and reduces the risk of mistakes during oil changes or retrofits.​

• When replacing or topping up oil, always isolate the compressor, recover refrigerant and work under clean, dry conditions.​
• If in doubt about capacity or application limits, refer to the Copeland ZB range catalogue and selection software before approving a replacement.​

Tecumseh CAJ9480T R22 Hermetic Compressor: Complete Technical Guide for Professionals

The Tecumseh / L’Unité Hermetique CAJ9480T is a fully hermetic reciprocating compressor designed for commercial refrigeration systems operating with R22 and compatible retrofit refrigerants. Widely used in small cold rooms, display cabinets and compact condensing units, it runs on 220–240 V single‑phase, 50 Hz power and delivers 5/8 HP with around 1.97 kW of cooling capacity at EN12900 conditions.​

General description

This model belongs to the CAJ family, Tecumseh’s workhorse range for medium and high back‑pressure refrigeration applications such as positive‑temperature cold rooms and commercial coolers. It is a hermetic piston compressor using a CSR motor (capacitor start, capacitor run), giving high starting torque and stable operation on standard single‑phase networks.​

Manufactured in France under the L’Unité Hermetique brand, the CAJ9480T combines compact size, good efficiency and a robust mechanical design, which explains its popularity among installers and service companies like Mbsmgroup, Mbsm.pro and mbsmpro.com.​

Main technical specifications (with HP and W)

The table below consolidates key data from Tecumseh specification sheets and trusted distributors.​

Specification	CAJ9480T value (R22, 50 Hz)
Refrigerant	R22 (and some approved retrofits such as R438A on specific codes)​
Application range	Medium / high back pressure (commercial refrigeration)​
Nominal horsepower (HP)	5/8 HP (0.625 HP)​
Nominal cooling capacity (W)	≈ 1 968 W at EN12900: 220 V, 50 Hz, +5 °C evap / +50 °C cond​
Input electrical power (W)	≈ 780–800 W at the same EN12900 rating point​
Displacement	15.2 cm³/rev​
Supply voltage	220–240 V, 1‑phase, 50 Hz​
Voltage range	187–242 V (50 Hz)​
Rated load amps (RLA, 50 Hz)	≈ 4 A​
Locked rotor amps (LRA)	≈ 24 A​
Oil type / quantity	Synthetic alkylate or mineral, approx. 475–887 cm³ depending on version​
Net weight	≈ 19–22 kg​

The nameplate visible in your photo shows “R22 – LRA 24 – 203–220 V – 50 Hz – RLA 4.00”, matching these published values and confirming a single‑phase CAJ9480T produced in France.​

Typical applications and field use

Because of its capacity, voltage and starting characteristics, the CAJ9480T fits many everyday refrigeration jobs.​

• Small cold rooms for butchers, restaurants, bakeries and mini‑markets originally charged with R22.
• Vertical display cabinets, reach‑in fridges and refrigerated counters using factory‑built condensing units.
• Custom‑built condensing units and mini‑packs produced by specialists such as Mbsmgroup, Mbsm.pro and mbsmpro.com, especially where reliable 5/8 HP performance is required on 230 V single‑phase.​

Its CSR motor and high starting torque help the compressor start under tougher conditions, such as long pipe runs or marginal supply voltage.​

Installation and maintenance best practices

Correct installation and servicing are essential to protect this compressor and keep systems efficient.​

• Flush and evacuate the circuit carefully, and always install a new filter‑drier when replacing a failed R22 compressor.
• Use the start and run capacitors and potential relay recommended by Tecumseh (for example, 88 µF start and 15 µF run on the CAJ9480T‑FZ code) and follow the official wiring diagram.​
• Verify charge, suction superheat and condensing temperature so operation stays within Tecumseh’s performance envelope.​
• For R22 retrofit projects, respect manufacturer guidance on compatible replacement refrigerants and oil changes to avoid lubrication and overheating issues.​

Working with trusted suppliers such as Mbsmgroup and its online platforms helps ensure genuine Tecumseh parts, correct electrical components and updated technical information.