The Grundfos CR20-06 A-F-A-E-HQQE is a vertical multistage centrifugal pump delivering 21 m³/h at 70.4 m head with a 7.5 kW IE3 motor, designed for demanding water boosting and industrial applications.​​
Its cast‑iron base, stainless‑steel internals and HQQE mechanical seal make it a durable, energy‑efficient solution for process water, HVAC, boiler feed and general pressure boosting systems.​

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Introduction

In modern industry and building services, stable water pressure is no longer a luxury but a basic requirement. The Grundfos CR20-06 A-F-A-E-HQQE has become one of the quiet workhorses in this field, combining compact vertical design with serious performance for installations where downtime is simply not an option.​

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Technical profile of the CR20-06

The pump in the photo is clearly identified on its nameplate as a Grundfos CR20-06 A-F-A-E-HQQE with a 7.50 kW motor operating at 50 Hz and about 2919 rpm.​​
It delivers a nominal flow of 21 m³/h at a rated head of 70.4 m, with a maximum head up to 88.4 m and a maximum operating pressure of 16 bar at liquid temperatures up to 120 °C.​

Main nameplate data

Item	Value
Pump type	CR20-06 A-F-A-E-HQQE
Rated power P2	7.5 kW
Frequency / speed	50 Hz / ≈2919 rpm
Rated flow Q	21 m³/h
Rated head H	70.4 m
Maximum head Hmax	88.4 m
Maximum pressure / temp.	16 bar / 120 °C
Shaft seal code	HQQE (single mechanical seal)
Pump orientation	Vertical, inline
Efficiency (pump)	≈75.6% (MEI ≥ 0.70)

​​

The pump uses a vertical, inline layout with suction and discharge on the same level (DN 50 flanged connections, PN 25 rating), simplifying installation in compact plant rooms and on rigid pipe manifolds.​
Its IE3 motor (size 132SB) offers motor efficiencies above 90% at typical loads, helping operators reduce long‑term energy costs.​

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Construction, materials and seal

The CR20-06 belongs to the widely used CR multistage family, where several impellers are stacked in series to build pressure while maintaining moderate flow.​
In this specific model, the base and pump head are in cast iron, while all wetted parts such as impellers and chambers are stainless steel AISI 304, providing a good balance between robustness and corrosion resistance for clean water duties.​

The HQQE mechanical seal is a single cartridge seal with silicon carbide/silicon carbide faces, EPDM elastomers and a stainless‑steel spring, designed for long service life and easy replacement.​
This configuration suits cold and hot water, mildly aggressive media used in HVAC and process plants, and reduces the risk of dry‑running damage during commissioning or transient operating conditions.​

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Typical applications and operating benefits

With its 21 m³/h at 70.4 m operating point, the CR20-06 is well suited to medium‑pressure boosting in commercial buildings, industrial wash and rinse systems, boiler feed for small to mid‑size boilers, and general process water circulation.​
Installers appreciate the inline design, which often allows direct replacement of older horizontal pumps without major changes to the pipework, while plant operators value the quiet operation and low vibration levels of the multistage design.​

From an energy perspective, the combination of high hydraulic efficiency and IE3 motor makes this model a strong candidate in projects where life‑cycle cost analysis is required or where regulations demand a minimum efficiency index (MEI ≥ 0.70).​
Paired with an external frequency converter, the CR20-06 can be turned into a variable‑speed booster, maintaining constant pressure in domestic water systems, process loops or district cooling circuits while cutting energy consumption during partial‑load operation.​

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Practical selection notes for engineers

When selecting a CR20-06 for a project, engineers typically start from the required duty point on the pump curve and verify that 21 m³/h at around 70 m head fits the system’s pressure losses, static height and safety margin.​
System designers also check NPSH requirements, temperature range from −20 to 120 °C, and maximum ambient temperature up to 60 °C to ensure trouble‑free operation in machinery rooms and outdoor installations.​

Because the pump offers a maximum operating pressure of 16 bar with PN 25 flanges, it can be integrated into higher‑pressure manifolds and ring mains, provided that upstream valves, fittings and vessels share compatible ratings.​
For users planning future upgrades, the CR range gives a modular platform: additional models and variants can be combined in parallel booster sets, or replaced one‑to‑one if system demand increases.

Le compresseur hermétique ZMC GM70AZ, visible sur l’étiquette de la photo, est un modèle fonctionnant au réfrigérant R134a, conçu pour les applications à basse pression d’aspiration dans le froid ménager. Fabriqué en Égypte par Misr Compressor Manufacturing Co. (ZMC), il cible les réfrigérateurs et congélateurs domestiques alimentés en 220–240 V, 50 Hz, très répandus en Afrique du Nord et au Moyen‑Orient.​​

Caractéristiques techniques essentielles

Le GM70AZ appartient à la famille de compresseurs LBP (Low Back Pressure), avec une plage d’évaporation typique d’environ −30 °C à −10 °C adaptée au froid négatif. Il fonctionne au réfrigérant R134a, avec un refroidissement du moteur par convection statique et une alimentation monophasée 220–240 V, 50 Hz comme indiqué sur l’étiquette.​​

Ce compresseur offre une puissance de l’ordre de 1/5 HP, ce qui le positionne pour des réfrigérateurs et congélateurs ménagers de petite à moyenne capacité. Il est fourni avec des connexions brasées pour aspiration, refoulement et process, ce qui facilite son intégration dans les circuits frigorifiques standards des fabricants et des ateliers de maintenance.​

Tableau – Données techniques typiques ZMC E/GM70AZ

Enjeux pour le froid domestique

Les compresseurs GM70AZ et EGM70AZ s’inscrivent dans la stratégie industrielle de ZMC visant à fournir des compresseurs hermétiques compétitifs pour les fabricants de réfrigérateurs et les marchés de rechange. Grâce à leur compatibilité avec le R134a, ils restent courants dans les appareils existants, même si le secteur s’oriente progressivement vers des réfrigérants à plus faible GWP comme le R600a.​

Pour les techniciens frigoristes, l’identification correcte du modèle et du gaz, comme on le voit clairement sur l’étiquette GM70AZ, est essentielle pour respecter les conditions de fonctionnement (tension, plage d’évaporation, type de détente capillaire) et garantir longévité et efficacité énergétique. Ce type de compresseur est largement utilisé dans les ateliers de service en Tunisie, en Égypte et dans la région MENA, où les pièces ZMC sont facilement disponibles.

 

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The EGM91AA is a hermetic reciprocating compressor manufactured by ZMC, designed primarily for use with R134a refrigerant. It operates on a voltage range of 220-240V at 50Hz and is typically used for low back pressure (LBP) refrigeration applications like household refrigerators and freezers.​​

Main Specifications

• Refrigerant: R134a​​

• Application: LBP (Low Back Pressure)​

• Power: 1/4 HP​

• Voltage/Frequency: 220-240V, 50Hz​​

• Motor Type: RSIR/CSIR​

• Starting Device: PTC QP2-15Ω​

• Oil Charge: 180 cm³ esters (POE)​

• CE certified​​

Technical Details

• Evaporating Temperature Range: -30°C to -10°C (suitable for refrigeration, not deep freeze)​

• Maximum Motor Temperature: 130°C​

• Locked Rotor Current: 6.78 A​

• Voltage Working Range: 187-264V​

• Compressor Cooling: Static​

• Expansion device: Capillary tube​

Typical Uses

• Household refrigerators

• Small commercial refrigerators

• Appliances using R134a needing 1/4 HP compressor power​

This model is manufactured in Egypt and is widely compatible with fridges operating in regions where 220-240V, 50Hz power is standard

For the EGM91AA (LBP, R134a), the answer leans more to freezing / low‑temperature cooling, but it is used for both refrigerators and freezers depending on the system design.​

What LBP means

• LBP = Low Back Pressure, which corresponds to low evaporating temperatures, typically about −30 °C to −10 °C.​

• Such compressors are commonly used in freezers, deep freezers, and low‑temperature refrigerator compartments.​

So for EGM91AA

• Its data sheet lists application = LBP with evaporating range −30 °C to −10 °C, exactly the range used for freezer or low‑temperature refrigerator circuits.​

• Practically: if you charge and size the capillary for −25/−30 °C, it works as freezing; if you design around −12/−10 °C, it becomes strong cooling / chiller level.

The EGM91AA compressor from ZMC stands out as one of the most notable solutions in the domestic and light commercial refrigeration sector thanks to its use of R134a refrigerant and its high efficiency under varying climatic conditions. It delivers optimal cooling performance for refrigerators operating on 220–240 V, 50 Hz power, making it a practical choice for both local and international markets. Its advanced technical features translate into quick response, reduced energy consumption, and excellent compatibility with household systems, providing reliable performance backed by solid regional manufacturing.​​

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Journalistic introduction

In the fast‑moving world of refrigeration technology, real innovation often hides in the small components that only technicians and specialists tend to notice. At the core of every modern refrigerator, a compressor sets the rhythm for the entire system’s life span and efficiency, and the EGM91AA model is a clear illustration of this principle. A compact steel shell, carefully engineered handling of R134a refrigerant, and optimized power consumption come together to keep food safe and temperatures stable even when ambient heat pushes equipment to its limits.​​

This compressor is more than a metal capsule in a sealed circuit; it is a technical product with a manufacturing story that starts in Egypt and extends across regional markets serving home refrigeration. Designed for 220–240 V, 50 Hz grids and carrying CE conformity, it offers installers and repair professionals a unit that combines robustness, availability of spare parts, and predictable behavior in low back‑pressure applications. As local industries expand their capabilities, models like the EGM91AA show how regional manufacturing can compete in quality while remaining accessible to small workshops and major appliance brands alike.​​

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Technical specifications table for EGM91AA

ZB38 5HP R404 MBP correspond à un compresseur scroll Copeland Emerson, modèle ZB38KQE ou ZB38KCE, puissance nominale 5 HP, conçu pour le fluide frigorigène R404A et destiné au service moyenne température (MBP = Medium Back Pressure).​

Caractéristiques typiques:

• Type: Scroll hermétique Copeland série ZB38 (Emerson).​
• Puissance: 5 HP, triphasé 380–400 V (suivant version TFD-551 / -558).​
• Fluide: optimisé pour R404A (souvent aussi compatible R507A, parfois R134a selon la plaque).​
• Application: réfrigération à température moyenne (MBP / MHBP), vitrines réfrigérées, chambres froides positives, etc.​
• Déplacement volumétrique: environ 14,4 m³/h; puissance frigorifique autour de 7–11 kW selon conditions (Te/Tc).​

Signification de ton code:

• ZB38 = série de compresseurs scroll réfrigération Copeland, taille « 38 ».​
• 5HP = puissance moteur nominale.​
• R404 = fluide R404A prévu pour ce modèle.​
• MBP = utilisation en température moyenne (évaporation typique -10 °C à +5 °C pour chambres froides positives, conservateurs…).​

Si tu précises les conditions de travail (Te, Tc, sous-refroidissement, surchauffe), il est possible d’estimer la capacité frigorifique exacte et vérifier si ce compresseur est adapté à ta chambre froide ou ton évaporateur actuel.

In commercial refrigeration, the compressor is more than just a component; it is the engine that decides whether a cold room runs smoothly or becomes a constant source of service calls. The ZB38 5HP R404A MBP scroll compressor is one of those models that technicians encounter again and again in supermarkets, butcheries, bakeries and restaurant cold rooms. Its popularity comes from a balance of capacity, efficiency and robustness that fits the core needs of medium-temperature systems.

What ZB38 5HP R404A MBP Really Means

When technicians talk about “ZB38 5HP R404A MBP”, they are compressing a lot of technical information into a short code.

• ZB38: Indicates a scroll refrigeration compressor series and displacement class, typically around 5 HP in the manufacturer’s lineup.
• 5HP: The nominal motor power, placing it in the range commonly used for medium-sized cold rooms and supermarket display lines.
• R404A: The main refrigerant for which the compressor is optimized, historically a standard in commercial refrigeration despite ongoing phase-down discussions in many markets.
• MBP (Medium Back Pressure): Specifies that the compressor is designed for medium-temperature applications such as positive-temperature cold rooms, fresh products, dairy and beverages, rather than deep-freeze low-temperature duties.

This decoding matters because each part of the designation tells the technician where the compressor can work safely, which refrigerant is acceptable and what kind of evaporating temperatures the system can handle without pushing the compressor beyond its envelope.

Typical Applications in the Field

A 5HP R404A MBP scroll compressor naturally positions itself in the heart of medium-sized commercial installations.

• Cold rooms for fresh meat, fruits and vegetables, where evaporating temperatures often range roughly between −10∘C−10∘C and +5∘C+5∘C, depending on the product and humidity control strategy.
• Supermarket wall cases and island cabinets for dairy, delicatessen and beverages, where multiple evaporators may be connected to a single condensing unit based on the ZB38 platform.
• Food-service equipment in hotels, central kitchens and bakeries, where reliability and quick recovery after door openings are more important than extreme low temperatures.

In these contexts, the ZB38 class compressor offers enough capacity to manage a significant thermal load while remaining compact, which is crucial when equipment must fit on rooftops, balconies or tight machine rooms in dense urban environments.

Why Scroll Technology Dominates This Segment

Scroll compressors like the ZB38 have progressively replaced many traditional reciprocating models in MBP applications.

• Fewer moving parts reduce mechanical noise, vibration and wear, which in practice often means fewer mechanical failures and smoother operation.
• The continuous compression process delivers stable mass flow, improving evaporator performance and temperature control inside cold rooms and cabinets.
• The compact, hermetic construction simplifies installation, reduces the risk of leaks at mechanical joints and helps manufacturers build more compact condensing units.

For technicians, scrolls are often easier to handle: electrical connections are straightforward, and the absence of complex valve mechanisms or external crankcase components shortens installation and troubleshooting time when compared with older piston designs.

Key Operating Parameters Technicians Monitor

Working with a 5HP R404A MBP compressor requires attention to several practical parameters, even if the data sheet is not in hand.

• Evaporating temperature: Usually in the medium range, technicians watch suction pressure to ensure it stays within the recommended envelope, avoiding both overloading and poor oil return.
• Condensing temperature: Condenser cleanliness, ambient temperature and fan control directly impact discharge pressure, compressor current and overall energy consumption.
• Superheat and subcooling: Correct expansion valve setting and a stable liquid line temperature help prevent liquid slugging at start-up and maintain the right mass flow through the evaporator.

In practice, a well-adjusted system keeps the compressor within its design envelope during the hottest days of summer, which is often where installations in Mediterranean climates are pushed to their limits.

Installation and Start-Up Best Practices

Even the most robust compressor can fail prematurely if basic installation guidelines are ignored.

• Cleanliness: Piping must be brazed with nitrogen purging and thoroughly evacuated to remove moisture and contaminants that can degrade oil and valves.
• Oil management: Proper piping design, especially at the suction line and oil traps on vertical risers, ensures oil returns reliably to the compressor shell.
• Electrical checks: Before energizing, technicians confirm supply voltage, phase sequence and proper overload protection, including verification of contactor and breaker sizing.

A disciplined start-up procedure—monitoring pressures, temperatures and compressor current over the first hour—usually reveals whether the system is healthy or if there are hidden issues like undersized condensers or incorrect charge.

Maintenance and Diagnostic Considerations

In daily practice, maintenance teams use a few key indicators to assess the health of a scroll compressor like the ZB38.

• Noise and vibration: Changes in sound signature can announce mechanical damage, liquid return or severe gas under-cooling at the compressor.
• Discharge line temperature: Excessive discharge temperature often points to high condensing pressure, low refrigerant charge or poor suction gas cooling.
• Oil color and level (if visible through an indicator): Darkened or acidic oil is a clear warning that the system has experienced overheating or contamination, and that deeper corrective action is required.

Regular cleaning of condensers, checking fan operation and verifying that defrost cycles are effective in evaporators can significantly extend compressor life by keeping operating conditions within design limits.

Where This Technology Is Heading

Although R404A has long been the standard for MBP commercial applications, environmental regulations are pushing the market toward lower-GWP alternatives and redesigned compressors.
Manufacturers are gradually adapting similar 5HP scroll platforms to new blends with different pressures and glide characteristics, while technicians increasingly need to be familiar with multiple refrigerants and their specific charge and oil requirements.
For users and contractors, this transition highlights the importance of good documentation, training and practical feedback from the field—an area where communities of technicians, independent platforms such as mbsmgroup.tn and projects like mbsm.pro, mbsmgroup and mbsmpro.com can play a useful role in sharing real-world experience and solutions.

Suggested exclusive images for this topic (you can create or photograph them yourself):

• A close-up of a 5HP scroll compressor label showing model code, refrigerant and electrical data.
• A medium-temperature cold room condensing unit with the compressor, condenser and control box visible on a rooftop or service balcony.
• A technician’s hand holding clamp meter and manifold gauges connected to a running MBP R404A condensing unit.
• A clean, well-lit cold room interior with product on shelves, showing air coolers on the ceiling and neat piping.
• A side-by-side photo of a scroll compressor and an older reciprocating unit on a workshop floor, demonstrating the difference in size and design.

 

Determining the cooling capacity of air conditioning and refrigeration compressors is fundamental for professionals in the HVAC industry. One of the key electrical values specified on compressor labels is the LRA (Locked Rotor Amps), which represents the maximum current drawn at motor start. Transforming this into tons of cooling provides a rapid and reliable way to size, diagnose, and upgrade systems.

What is LRA and Why Convert it to Tons?

• Locked Rotor Amps (LRA): The peak current when a compressor starts. It is vital for sizing electrical protection and understanding performance.

• Cooling Ton: Standard unit for cooling capability (1 ton = 12,000 BTU/hr).

The Simple Conversion Formula

For single-phase compressors, the modern, professional formula is:

$$Ton=LRA/36$$

Example:
If the compressor’s LRA is 54:
Ton = 54 / 36 = 1.5 Ton

Always use the division symbol (/) instead of horizontal lines for cleaner, easier-to-read formulas in technical documentation.

Benefits and Use Cases

• Quick Unit Sizing: Helpful when label information is limited or during site evaluations.

• Matching Electrical Loads: Ensures new or replacement units are compatible with existing infrastructure.

• Field Troubleshooting: Arms technicians with a fast check for expected capacity vs. measured electrical consumption.

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Summary:
This guide explains how to convert LRA into cooling tons using a direct and easy-to-use formula (LRA / 36 = Ton). It streamlines sizing, troubleshooting, and matching of commercial HVAC and refrigeration compressors, ensuring professional and efficient results in the field.

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Slug:
convert-lra-to-ton-hvac-modern

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Quick Reference Table: LRA / 36 = Ton

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By using this updated formula and professional writing style, technicians and engineers benefit from fast and transparent conversions that enhance reliability and accuracy in every HVAC task.

Bristol Compressor H20J283ABC

Brand name :	Bristol
Series :	H20J
Model :	H20J283ABC
Refrigeration application :	High temperature
Refrigerant :	R22
Generation :
Family :	Model J
Capacity :	28000 BTU/HR
Motor type :	PSC Permanent split capacitor
Motor protector :	Internal line break
Electrical characteristics :	230/208-1-60
Color :	black

About this product

Product Identifiers

• BrandBristol
• MPNH29B18UABCA
• eBay Product ID (ePID)839548071

Product Key Features

• Power SourceCorded Electric
• RefrigerantR-22
• Number of Compressors1
• Year Manufactured2020
• Power Phase1 Phase
• Capacity16,100-20,000 BTUh
• Voltage208/230 V
• Compressor TypeReciprocating
• ColorBlack
• ModelH29B18UABCA

BRISTOL – H29B18UABH

265 Volts – 1 phase  |  BTU/H : 18000

@45/130	@45/100
Capacity	Motor Input WATTS	EER/COp	Capacity	Motor Input WATTS	EER
BTU/H	WATTS	BTU/WH	W/W	BTU/H	BTU/WH
18000	5282	1680	10.7	3.1	24267	1386	17.5

Electrical Data	Displacement
RLA	LRA	MCC	IN3/REV	CM3/REV
6.5	44	11.5	2.03	33.25