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Electrical System
PTCR DIAGNOSTICS
What is a PTCR?
A PTCR (or Positive Temperature Coefficient
Resistor) is made from high-purity, semi-
conducting ceramics.
A PTCR is useful because of its resistance versus
temperature characteristic. The PTCR has a low
resistance over a wide (low) temperature range, but
upon reaching a certain higher temperature, its
resistance greatly increases, virtually stopping
current flow. When the source of heat is removed,
the PTCR returns to its initial base resistance.
In severe duty cycles, it can be used to repeatedly
switch (virtually stop) large currents at line
voltages.
PTCR’s have been used for many years in millions
of HVAC applications. In place of using the
conventional start relay/start capacitor, a simple
PTCR provides the starting torque assistance to
PSC (Permanent Split Capacitor) single-phase
compressors, which can equalize pressures before
starting.
Compressor Start Sequence
PTCR’s provide additional starting torque by
increasing the current in the auxiliary (start)
winding during starting. The PTCR is wired across
the run capacitor (in series with the start winding).
1. It is important for the refrigerant discharge and
suction pressures to be somewhat equalized
prior to the compressor starting. To assure
equalization of pressures the hot gas valve (and
HPR valve on remotes) will energize for 45
seconds prior to compressor starting. The hot
gas valve (and HPR valve on remotes) remains
on for an additional 5 seconds while the
compressor is starting.
2. When starting the compressor, the contactor
closes and the PTCR, which is at a low
resistance value, allows high starting current to
flow in the start winding.
3. The current passing through the PTCR causes it
to rapidly heat up, and after approximately .25-1
second it abruptly “switches” to a very high
resistance, virtually stopping current flow
through it.
4. At this point the motor is up to speed and all
current going through the start winding will now
pass through the run capacitor.
5. The PTCR remains hot and at a high resistance
as long as voltage remains on the circuit.
6. It is important to provide time between
compressor restarts to allow the PTCR to cool
down to near its initial temperature (low
resistance). When the contactor opens to stop
the compressor, the PTCR cools down to its
initial low resistance and is again ready to
provide starting torque assistance. To assure the
PTCR has cooled down, during an automatic
shut-off, the Q model ice machines have a built-
in 3-minute off time before it can restart.