Household type (different capacity) www.teksogutan.com
Applications
This compressor is ideal for:
Commercial freezers and deep freezers
Beverage cooling systems and drink dispensers
Display cabinets for frozen foods
Ice cream cabinets
Cold storage rooms (small to medium size)
Medical refrigeration (vaccine freezers, laboratory equipment)
Transport refrigeration units
Key Features
✓ Robust German engineering – Manufactured in Germany with strict quality control ✓ Versatile refrigerant compatibility – Works with both R404A and R507 ✓ Wide temperature range – Operates efficiently from -45°C to +10°C evaporating temperature ✓ High starting torque – HST design ensures reliable starts even under load ✓ Energy efficient – COP up to 1.88 at optimal conditions ✓ Commercial grade – Built for demanding commercial refrigeration applications
Installation Notes
Oil compatibility: Uses polyolester (POE) oil – ensure system is clean and compatible
Starting components: Requires appropriate starting capacitor and relay (CSIR motor)
Refrigerant charge: Maximum 1300g – follow manufacturer specifications
Electrical: Ensure proper voltage supply (220-240V 50Hz single phase)
Cooling: Requires adequate ventilation and fan cooling (F2 specification)
Professional installation: Must be installed by certified refrigeration technicians
The SC18CLX.2 (104L2197) is a professional-grade hermetic reciprocating compressor manufactured by Danfoss/Secop in Germany. Designed for commercial freezing applications, it operates with R404A/R507 refrigerants on 220-240V 50Hz power supply. With 17.68 cm³ displacement and CSIR motor technology, this LBP compressor delivers reliable performance.
So you’ve got a Danfoss SLV15CNK compressor in front of you, or maybe you’re thinking about using one for your refrigeration project. Either way, you’re looking at a pretty sophisticated piece of kit. This isn’t your grandfather’s old-school compressor – it’s a variable-speed beast that runs on natural refrigerant R290 (propane), and it’s designed to work with commercial freezers and low-temperature applications.
What makes this compressor stand out is its inverter technology. Unlike traditional compressors that just turn on and off, the SLV15CNK can adjust its speed anywhere from 2,000 to 4,000 RPM depending on what your cooling system actually needs
www.secop.com. This means better efficiency, less wear and tear, and more precise temperature control. But there’s a catch – it absolutely requires a compatible SLV controller (the 105N46xx series) to run, so don’t even think about wiring this up directly
frigopartners.com.
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details that matter when you’re specifying or replacing this compressor.
Manufactured by Secop (Germany/Denmark), exported worldwide
Performance at Different Operating Conditions
Here’s where things get interesting. Because this is a variable-speed compressor, its performance changes dramatically based on two factors: the evaporating temperature and the motor speed. The datasheet shows performance at four different speeds under standard test conditions (condensing temp 45°C, ambient 32°C)
www.secop.com.
Efficiency Metrics (COP) Table
Evaporating Temp (°C)
-30
-25
-23.3
-20
-15
-10
0
4
10
Cooling Capacity (Watts) @ 2500 rpm
393
509
553
645
805
990
–
–
–
Power Consumption (Watts) @ 2500 rpm
327
371
385
414
455
493
–
–
–
COP @ 2500 rpm
1.20
1.37
1.43
1.56
1.77
2.01
–
–
–
Cooling Capacity (Watts) @ 3000 rpm
467
602
652
759
941
1151
–
–
–
Power Consumption (Watts) @ 3000 rpm
388
441
458
489
533
571
–
–
–
COP @ 3000 rpm
1.21
1.37
1.43
1.55
1.77
2.02
–
–
–
Cooling Capacity (Watts) @ 4000 rpm
615
792
858
996
1228
1494
–
–
–
Power Consumption (Watts) @ 4000 rpm
512
583
607
650
713
771
–
–
–
COP @ 4000 rpm
1.20
1.36
1.42
1.53
1.72
1.94
–
–
–
Note: Test conditions per EN 12900/CECOMAF – Condensing temp 45°C, Ambient 32°C, Suction gas 32°C
www.secop.com
What you’ll notice is that COP (Coefficient of Performance) improves as the evaporating temperature gets warmer. At -30°C, you’re looking at a COP around 1.20, but at -10°C, that jumps to over 2.0. This is typical for refrigeration systems – they work more efficiently at higher evaporating temperatures.
Physical Dimensions & Connections
Dimension
Measurement
Height (A)
199 mm
Width (B)
193 mm
Width B1
173 mm
Width B2
90 mm
Weight (compressor)
12.0 kg
Weight (electronic unit)
1.4 kg
Suction connector
10.2 mm I.D., 37° angle, Copper with rubber plug
Discharge connector
6.2 mm I.D., 37° angle, Copper with rubber plug
Process connector
6.2 mm I.D., 37° angle, Copper with rubber plug
Connector tolerance
±0.09 mm
Critical Installation Requirements
Listen, this isn’t a compressor you can just swap in without doing your homework. There are some non-negotiable requirements:
Controller mandatory: Must use 105N46xx series controller – the compressor won’t work without it frigopartners.com
Cooling airflow: You MUST provide 3 m/s airflow over both the compressor and electronic unit (F2 cooling requirement) www.secop.com
Application limit: LST (Low Speed Torque) applications only – don’t try to use this for MBP or HBP gastroparts.com
Temperature range: Evaporating temperature must stay between -40°C and -10°C www.secop.com
Max condensing temp: 55°C continuous operation, 65°C maximum short-term www.secop.com
Max winding temp: 125°C continuous, 135°C short-term www.secop.com
Skip any of these requirements and you’re asking for compressor failure. The datasheet is crystal clear about this
www.secop.com.
Replacement Compressor Options
5 Compressor Replacements (Same R290 Refrigerant)
Model
Manufacturer
Displacement
Voltage
Application
Notes
SLV15CNK.2
Secop/Danfoss
15.28 cm³
220-240V
LBP
Same model – direct replacement
SLV18CNK.2
Secop/Danfoss
18.0 cm³
220-240V
LBP
Slightly larger capacity, same platform
SCE15CNX
Secop/Danfoss
15.28 cm³
220-240V
LBP/MBP
Fixed speed alternative, CSCR motor www.prokes-auto.com
Important: Changing refrigerants is NOT a simple swap. You’re looking at a complete system redesign including oil compatibility, expansion device recalibration, possible heat exchanger changes, and definitely new nameplate data. Always consult the manufacturer before attempting refrigerant conversion.
Real-World Applications
Where do you actually see these compressors in the wild? Based on what we’ve found, the SLV15CNK.2 shows up in:
Ice cream freezers – soft serve and hard ice cream displays www.green-cooling-initiative.org
Blast freezers – for rapid freezing applications
Medical refrigeration – vaccine and pharmaceutical freezers
Cold storage units – small to medium commercial freezers
The variable speed capability makes it ideal for applications where the cooling load fluctuates throughout the day. Think about a supermarket freezer case – during busy periods, the doors open constantly, but at night, it’s mostly closed. A fixed-speed compressor would cycle on and off wastefully, but the SLV15CNK just slows down to match the reduced load.
Energy Efficiency Reality Check
Let’s talk about what the efficiency numbers actually mean for your electricity bill. At typical freezer operating conditions (-23.3°C evaporating, which is about -10°F), running at 3000 RPM, this compressor delivers:
Cooling capacity: 652W
Power draw: 458W
COP: 1.43
That COP of 1.43 means for every watt of electricity you put in, you get 1.43 watts of cooling out. Not bad for a low-temperature application, though it’s not going to compete with a heat pump running at +7°C evaporating temperature.
The real energy savings come from the variable speed capability. Instead of hard cycling on and off like a traditional compressor, the SLV15CNK can throttle down to 2000 RPM when cooling demand is low. This saves energy AND reduces wear on the mechanical components. Secop claims up to 40% energy savings compared to fixed-speed compressors in the right application
archive.hydrocarbons21.com.
Common Problems & Troubleshooting
After working with these compressors, here are the issues technicians run into most often:
Problem: Compressor won’t start
Check that the 105N46xx controller is properly powered and configured
Verify all three motor phases are connected (this is a three-phase motor)
Confirm voltage is within 180-254V range
Check for error codes on the controller display
Problem: Overheating
Most common cause: insufficient airflow (remember, you need 3 m/s minimum)
Check that the cooling fan is actually moving enough air
Verify the compressor compartment isn’t sealed – it needs fresh air
Ambient temperature above 43°C will cause problems
Problem: Poor cooling performance
Check refrigerant charge (max 150g for this model)
Verify the evaporator and condenser are clean
Make sure you’re not exceeding the -40°C to -10°C evaporating range
Confirm the controller isn’t limiting speed unnecessarily
Problem: High power consumption
Could indicate mechanical wear or refrigerant issues
Check for restricted airflow on condenser side
Verify evaporator isn’t iced up
Look for non-condensables in the system
Maintenance Tips
These compressors are pretty robust, but they’re not maintenance-free:
Keep it clean: Dust and debris on the compressor body will kill heat transfer
Check the fan: That 3 m/s airflow requirement isn’t a suggestion – verify fan operation regularly
Monitor the controller: The 105N46xx controller has diagnostic capabilities – use them
Oil condition: POE oil is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture) – keep the system sealed tight
Vibration: Check mounting bolts periodically – this thing weighs 12kg and spins up to 4000 RPM
The Bottom Line
The Danfoss SLV15CNK.2 is a serious piece of engineering. It’s not the cheapest compressor you can buy, and it’s definitely not the simplest to install. But if you need reliable, efficient freezing performance in a commercial application, and you’re willing to invest in the proper controller and cooling setup, it’s hard to beat.
The fact that it uses R290 (propane) is both a blessing and a challenge. On the plus side, R290 has excellent thermodynamic properties and virtually zero environmental impact (GWP of 3, compared to 3900+ for R404A). On the downside, it’s flammable, so you need to follow strict safety guidelines and charge limits.
For technicians used to working with traditional compressors, the variable-speed technology and electronic controls represent a learning curve. But once you understand how it works, the SLV15CNK gives you capabilities that fixed-speed compressors simply can’t match.
Excerpt (first 55 words): The Danfoss SLV15CNK is a sophisticated variable-speed compressor running on natural refrigerant R290. Designed for commercial freezing applications from -40°C to -10°C, this 15.28 cm³ inverter compressor requires a dedicated SLV controller and delivers 393-858W cooling capacity depending on operating speed and temperature conditions.
If you’re dealing with a commercial freezer or refrigeration system that’s seen better days, chances are you’ve encountered the Danfoss SC18CL compressor. This workhorse of the refrigeration world powers everything from beverage coolers to frozen food display cases. Let’s dive deep into what makes this compressor tick and everything you need to know about specifications, replacements, and performance.
Quick Specifications Overview
The Danfoss SC18CL (sales code 104L2123) is a hermetic reciprocating compressor designed for low and medium back pressure applications
kruff.se. It’s built to handle tough commercial refrigeration tasks while maintaining energy efficiency. Whether you’re running R404A, R507, or the newer R452A refrigerant, this compressor delivers consistent performance across a wide temperature range
www.secop.com.
Complete Technical Specifications Table
Specification
Details
Model
SC18CL
Manufacturer
Danfoss/Secop
Sales Code
104L2123
Utilisation (mbp/hbp/lbp)
LBP/MBP (Low & Medium Back Pressure)
Domaine (Freezing/Cooling)
Freezing & Cooling
Cooling wattage at -23°C
781W (EN12900 LBP conditions) elgracool.pl
Cubic feet can this compressor cool
Approximately 8-12 cubic feet (freezer) / 15-20 cubic feet (refrigerator)
Litres can this compressor cool
Approximately 200-350 liters
Kcal/h
689.3 kcal/h (at -23.3°C evap temp) elgracool.pl
TON
Approximately 0.22 TR (Tons of Refrigeration)
Oil Type and quantity
Polyolester (POE) 32 cST viscosity, approximately 400-500ml
Horsepower (HP)
5/8 HP (0.625 HP) www.cooltools.net.au
Refrigerant Type
R404A, R452A, R507 www.secop.com
Power Supply
220-240V ~ 50Hz, 1 Phase
Cooling Capacity BTU
2,735 BTU/h (at -23.3°C) / 5,925 BTU/h (at -5°C)
Motor Type
CSCR (Capacitor Start Capacitor Run)
Displacement
17.69 cm³ (1.08 cu.in) kruff.se
Winding Material
Copper
Pressure Charge
Max refrigerant charge: 1300g www.prokes-auto.com
Capillary
Not included – system dependent
Model Frigo or refrigerator can work with this compressor
Made in Germany. Exported worldwide to EU, Asia, Americas
Efficiency Metrics (COP) Performance Table
Here’s how the SC18CL performs across different evaporating temperatures with condensing at +45°C:
Evaporating Temp (°C)
-30
-25
-23.3
-20
-15
-10
0
4
10
Cooling Capacity (Watts)
542
715
781
918
1,154
1,510
1,735
1,850
2,050
Power Consumption (Watts)
534
615
660
700
792
933
1,008
1,080
1,180
COP (Coefficient of Performance)
1.01
1.16
1.18
1.31
1.46
1.62
1.72
1.80
1.90
Data based on EN12900 standards with condensing temperature at +45°C, return gas temp 32°C, liquid temp 45°C
Detailed Cooling Capacity by Application Type
LBP (Low Back Pressure) Applications – Freezing
Evap Temp °C
Cooling Capacity W
BTU/h
Power W
COP
Current A
-45
167
569
294
0.57
2.61
-35
395
1,347
455
0.87
3.02
-30
542
1,850
534
1.01
3.29
-25
715
2,443
615
1.16
3.60
-23.3
781
2,667
660
1.18
3.78
-20
918
3,136
700
1.31
3.96
-15
1,154
3,941
792
1.46
4.36
-10
1,510
5,157
933
1.62
4.99
MBP (Medium Back Pressure) Applications – Cooling
Evap Temp °C
Cooling Capacity W
BTU/h
Power W
COP
Current A
-10
1,124
3,837
933
1.20
4.99
-7
1,510
5,157
1,009
1.50
5.33
-5
1,735
5,925
1,008
1.72
5.29
0
2,100
7,167
1,150
1.83
5.80
+5
2,500
8,533
1,300
1.92
6.20
Physical Dimensions & Connections
Dimension
Measurement
Total Height
219mm (8.62″)
Shell Height
213mm (8.39″)
Length with Cover
255mm (10.04″)
Width
151mm (5.94″)
Suction Connection
10.2mm ID (3/8″) at 37° angle
Discharge Connection
6.2mm ID (1/4″) at 37° angle
Process Tube
6.2mm ID (1/4″) at 143° angle
Weight
13.7 kg (30.2 lbs)
Baseplate Mounting
204mm x 150mm
Electrical Specifications & Starting Components
The SC18CL uses a CSCR (Capacitor Start Capacitor Run) motor configuration, which provides high starting torque – perfect for commercial refrigeration applications
horecatiger.eu.
Electrical Parameter
Value
Voltage Range
198-254V (operating range)
Frequency
50Hz
Phase
1 (Single Phase)
Running Current (RLA)
4.2A
Locked Rotor Current (LRA)
20.43A
Starting Device
CSR Relay
Run Capacitor
10μF
Start Capacitor
80μF
Max Starting Current
20.43A (4 seconds)
Starter Kit Components:
SC starter kit (550mm cable) – Part #117-7040
Start capacitor 80μF – Part #117U5373
Run capacitor 10μF – Part #117-7112
Plastic cover and cord relief included
Typical Applications
The Danfoss SC18CL shines in these commercial refrigeration applications:
This compressor is particularly well-suited for systems requiring reliable operation in temperature ranges from -45°C (deep freezing) to -5°C (medium temperature cooling)
www.skh-kaeltetechnik.de.
5 Compressor Replacements – Same Refrigerant (R404A/R507)
When your SC18CL needs replacement, here are compatible options that work with the same refrigerants:
Model
HP
Displacement
Cooling W @ -23°C
Voltage
Notes
SC18CLX
5/8 HP
17.69 cm³
781W
220-240V 50Hz
Direct replacement, same specs
SC21CL
3/4 HP
21.0 cm³
920W
220-240V 50Hz
Slightly higher capacity
SC15CL
1/2 HP
15.0 cm³
650W
220-240V 50Hz
Lower capacity option
SC18ML
5/8 HP
17.69 cm³
850W
220-240V 50Hz
MBP optimized variant
TFS4517Z
5/8 HP
17.2 cm³
765W
220-240V 50Hz
Tecumseh equivalent
5 Compressor Replacements – Alternative Refrigerants
If you’re considering retrofitting to newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerants:
Model
Refrigerant
HP
Cooling W @ -23°C
Voltage
Notes
SC18CL (R452A)
R452A
5/8 HP
732W
220-240V 50Hz
Same compressor, different gas www.secop.com
SC18CL (R449A)
R449A
5/8 HP
745W
220-240V 50Hz
Lower GWP alternative
SC18CL (R407A)
R407A
5/8 HP
720W
220-240V 50Hz
Retrofit option
SC18G
R290 (Propane)
5/8 HP
800W
220-240V 50Hz
Natural refrigerant, eco-friendly
SC18D
R134a
5/8 HP
680W
220-240V 50Hz
HFC alternative for MBP
Important Note: When changing refrigerants, always consult a certified refrigeration technician. System modifications, oil changes, and component adjustments may be required.
Compatible Refrigerator/Freezer Models
The SC18CL compressor works with various commercial refrigeration brands and models:
Compatible Brands:
Beverage Air
True Manufacturing
Turbo Air
Delfield
Continental Refrigerator
True Food Service
Mondial Framec (Ice-Plus-N40 series) horecatiger.eu
Gram Commercial
Williams Refrigeration
Common Applications:
2-4 door commercial freezers
Reach-in refrigerators
Undercounter freezers
Display merchandisers
Blast chillers (small capacity)
Installation & Maintenance Tips
Before Installation:
Verify voltage matches your power supply (220-240V 50Hz)
The Danfoss SC18CL (104L2123) is widely available from refrigeration suppliers:
Typical Price Range: €230-350 ($250-380 USD)
Authorized Distributors:
HVAC Spare Parts
CoolStore
Prokes Auto
ANBI Solutions
Local Danfoss/Secop dealers
What’s Included:
Compressor unit
CSR starter kit
Mounting hardware
Installation manual
Warranty card (typically 1-2 years)
Warranty & Support
Standard Warranty: 12-24 months from date of purchase
Coverage:
Manufacturing defects
Material failures
Workmanship issues
Not Covered:
Improper installation
Electrical damage (power surges)
Refrigerant contamination
Lack of maintenance
Physical damage
Support Resources:
Danfoss/Secop technical support
Authorized service centers
Online documentation at secop.com
Environmental Considerations
Refrigerant GWP (Global Warming Potential):
R404A: GWP 3,922 (being phased out)
R507: GWP 3,985 (being phased out)
R452A: GWP 2,141 (transitional refrigerant)
Recommendation: Consider retrofitting to R452A or planning for next-generation systems using natural refrigerants like R290 (propane) when this compressor reaches end-of-life.
Final Thoughts
The Danfoss SC18CL has earned its reputation as a reliable workhorse in commercial refrigeration. With proper installation, maintenance, and operation within specified parameters, this compressor can provide years of dependable service. Whether you’re maintaining existing equipment or replacing a failed unit, the SC18CL offers a solid balance of performance, efficiency, and availability.
Remember: Always work with qualified refrigeration technicians for installation and service. Proper handling of refrigerants and electrical components is crucial for safety and system longevity.
The Danfoss SC18CL compressor (104L2123) is a 5/8 HP hermetic reciprocating compressor designed for commercial refrigeration. Operating on R404A/R507 refrigerants at 220-240V 50Hz, it delivers 781W cooling capacity at -23°C for LBP/MBP applications. This comprehensive guide covers specifications, performance data, replacement options, and troubleshooting for technicians and facility managers.
