The Maneurop MTZ160HW4VE is a heavy‑duty hermetic reciprocating compressor designed by Danfoss for medium‑back‑pressure commercial refrigeration with HFC refrigerants R134a, R404A, R407C, and R507A. It targets cold rooms, process chillers, milk tanks, and larger beverage installations where robust construction, multi‑refrigerant flexibility, and three‑phase power supply are required.
Technical specifications and operating data
The MTZ160HW4VE belongs to the MTZ160‑4VI family and combines a three‑phase motor with high‑efficiency pistons to reach double‑digit horsepower levels. Its nominal cooling capacity is about 20.3 kW at 50 Hz, with operation possible on 380‑415 V/3/50 Hz or 460 V/3/60 Hz networks.
Main technical data – MTZ160HW4VE
Parameter
Value
Notes
Compressor family
Maneurop MTZ160‑4VI
Medium‑temperature line.
Technology
Hermetic reciprocating
Piston design.
Nominal cooling capacity (50 Hz)
20.3 kW
At R404A MBP rating.
Motor power supply
380‑415 V 3~ 50 Hz, 460 V 3~ 60 Hz
Wide voltage range 340–440 V @ 50 Hz.
Motor protection
Internal overload protector
Thermally protected windings.
Max. operating current
Around 36 A at 460 V 60 Hz
Label LR (locked‑rotor) approx. 140 A.
Max. condensing temperature
50 °C
According to series guideline.
Minimum suction gas temp.
−35 °C
LP slide TS min.
PS design pressure
22.6 bar
PED data.
Oil type
Danfoss POE 160PZ
Factory charge of polyester oil.
Compatible refrigerants
R134a, R404A, R407C, R507A and new blends like R448A/R449A/R452A
Multi‑refrigerant platform.
This table shows why the MTZ160HW4VE is positioned as a 13 hp‑class compressor for large medium‑temperature duties rather than domestic or small commercial equipment. The internal overload, POE 160PZ oil, and 22.6‑bar shell rating give it the safety margin needed for high‑pressure HFC blends like R404A and R507A.
Field applications and exploitation potential
Because of its capacity and three‑phase motor, the MTZ160 series is frequently installed in:
Medium‑temperature cold rooms for food storage in supermarkets and restaurants.
Process chillers, milk tanks, and air‑dryer systems that need stable evaporating temperatures and long run times.
For installers, the multi‑refrigerant capability is a real advantage: the same MTZ160HW4VE shell can be used with traditional R404A/R507A or retrofitted to lower‑GWP blends like R448A or R449A, provided the system is re‑calculated using Danfoss performance software. The POE 160PZ oil ensures full miscibility with HFC and HFO blends, which is essential for good oil return in long piping runs and vertical risers in supermarket systems.
Value comparison with another Maneurop and Copeland models
To position this compressor on the market, it is useful to compare it with a smaller Maneurop MTZ80‑4VI and with a scroll alternative such as a Copeland ZR81KCE.
Capacity comparison
Model
Technology
Refrigerants
Nominal capacity at 50 Hz
Typical application
MTZ80‑4VI
Hermetic reciprocating
R404A/R507A/R407C/R134a
≈10 kW at MBP.
Small cold rooms, display cases.
MTZ160HW4VE (MTZ160‑4VI)
Hermetic reciprocating
R404A/R507A/R407C/R134a
20.3 kW at MBP.
Large cold rooms, process cooling.
Copeland ZR81KCE
Hermetic scroll
R404A/R407C etc.
≈18–19 kW at AHR MBP conditions.
Packaged condensing units, rooftop units.
The MTZ160HW4VE clearly delivers about double the cooling capacity of the MTZ80‑4VI, which justifies its use in bigger cold rooms or multi‑evaporator racks. Against a similar‑capacity Copeland scroll, the reciprocating design may be a bit noisier but offers higher displacement and strong performance at lower evaporating temperatures, making it attractive in heavy commercial refrigeration.
Medium‑temp, usually not as deep at low evaporating.
Similar condensing limits depending model.
Some models have narrower approved refrigerant lists.
From this table, the MTZ160HW4VE stands out by its very wide refrigerant portfolio, which is a strong value for installers looking for future‑proof solutions during HFC phase‑down. Scroll compressors remain strong competitors in efficiency and sound level, but they are not always as tolerant to liquid slugging or deep evaporating conditions as a rugged reciprocating Maneurop.
Installation, reliability and service notes
Danfoss guidelines for MT/MTZ compressors specify that these units must be installed with proper crankcase heaters, suction line filters, and accurate superheat control to avoid liquid floodback. They also recommend limiting the number of starts to around 12 per hour and ensuring correct phase rotation and voltage balance to protect the three‑phase motor.
During service, only POE 160PZ oil should be used, and charging must be done as a liquid from the cylinder when handling zeotropic blends such as R407C, R448A, or R449A to prevent fractionation. When retrofitting from R404A to a lower‑GWP blend, system components such as expansion valves and line sizes must be checked against the new operating pressures and mass flow predicted by Danfoss software tools.
Frascold D2 15Y: semi‑hermetic compressor for reliable commercial refrigeration
General overview
The Frascold D2 15Y is a two‑cylinder, semi‑hermetic reciprocating compressor designed for low‑ and medium‑temperature commercial and industrial refrigeration duties. With a displacement of about 15.4 m³/h at 50 Hz and a nominal motor power of 1.5 kW (2 HP), it fits perfectly in small to medium cold rooms, display cabinets and process coolers.
This model belongs to Frascold’s D series, known for compact cast‑iron bodies, quiet operation and high energy efficiency under EN12900 test conditions. The D2 15Y can be supplied as a bare compressor or integrated into silent condensing units, giving installers flexibility in plant design.
Key technical features
Frascold’s data show that the D2 15Y delivers around 6–7 kW of cooling capacity with R404A in typical low‑temperature duty, depending on evaporating and condensing conditions. The compressor is charged with POE oil (approx. 1.1 L) and uses robust suction and discharge service valves to facilitate commissioning and service.
Electrical supply options usually cover 220–240 V/3/50 Hz and 380–420 V/3/50 Hz (with corresponding 60 Hz variants), allowing use across most European three‑phase networks. The unit is compatible with multiple refrigerants, including R22, R134a, R404A, R507A, R407A/F, and new lower‑GWP blends such as R448A and R449A.
Table – Main data for Frascold D2 15Y
Parameter
Typical value
Model
D2‑15Y / D2‑15.1Y
Technology
Semi‑hermetic reciprocating, 2 cylinders
Displacement (50 Hz)
15.36 m³/h
Nominal motor power
1.5 kW – 2 HP
Oil charge
≈ 1.1 L POE oil
Typical cooling capacity
≈ 6.7 kW with R404A (EN12900 reference condition)
Application
Low/medium‑temperature refrigeration (LBP/MBP)
Compatible refrigerants
R22, R134a, R404A, R507A, R407A/F, R448A, R449A
Benefits for HVACR professionals
Semi‑hermetic design means the D2 15Y can be opened for internal inspection and overhaul, extending service life compared with fully hermetic units in demanding duty cycles. The compressor is also suitable for operation with variable‑frequency drives, enabling smooth capacity modulation from part‑load to peak demand while improving seasonal efficiency.
For contractors and wholesalers, the D2 15Y’s widespread availability and clear documentation (including a dedicated PDF datasheet and full catalog) simplify selection, replacement of legacy units and stocking of spare parts. Its broad refrigerant approval list helps systems transition towards lower‑GWP blends without changing the compressor platform.
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).
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.
