The Embraco NEK6165GK is a robust 1/3 HP hermetic reciprocating compressor designed for commercial refrigeration applications. Engineered for Medium Back Pressure (MBP) operating conditions, this unit is optimized for use with R404A and R507 refrigerants. It features a high-starting torque (HST) motor design, making it ideal for equipment requiring frequent cycling or starting under load, such as display cases, ice machines, and bottle coolers.
Key Technical Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
| Model | NEK6165GK (NEK Series) |
| Refrigerant | R404A / R507 |
| Nominal Horsepower | 1/3 HP |
| Voltage/Frequency | 220-240V / 50Hz (Single Phase) |
| Application | MBP (Medium Back Pressure) |
| Evaporating Range | -20°C to +10°C (-4°F to +50°F) |
| Displacement | 6.20 cm³ |
| Motor Type | CSIR (Capacitor Start, Induction Run) |
| Starting Torque | HST (High Starting Torque) |
| Expansion Device | Capillary Tube or Expansion Valve |
| Cooling Capacity | ~975W (ASHRAE, HBP conditions) / ~650W (MBP conditions) |
| Oil Type/Charge | POE 22 (Polyolester) / 350ml |
Common Applications:
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Commercial display cabinets and merchandisers
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Ice cube machines and slush dispensers
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Beverage coolers and bottle chillers
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Professional kitchen reach-in refrigerators
Expert Notes:
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Refrigerant Warning: This compressor is strictly for HFC refrigerants (R404A/R507) and uses POE oil. It is not compatible with R134a or mineral oil systems.
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Motor Logic: The CSIR motor configuration requires a start capacitor and relay (included in the standard GK assembly) to manage high starting loads, ensuring reliability in commercial environments where voltage fluctuations may occur.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use this compressor with R134a refrigerant? A: No. The NEK6165GK is specifically engineered for high-pressure refrigerants (R404A or R507). Using R134a will result in a drastic loss of capacity (roughly 40-50% less cooling) and may cause the motor to overheat due to insufficient mass flow for cooling the windings.
Q: Is this compressor suitable for a deep freezer? A: generally, no. This is an MBP (Medium Back Pressure) compressor with an operating range of -20°C to +10°C. While it can handle light freezing duties (like an ice machine or a holding cabinet), it is not designed for LBP (Low Back Pressure) applications like deep freeze storage (typically -30°C range). Running it below -20°C evaporating temperature will cause high discharge temperatures and valve failure.
Q: What does the "GK" at the end of the model number mean? A: In Embraco's nomenclature, the suffix indicates the electrical components included.
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G: Model series generation.
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K: Indicates the electrical box configuration, typically including a Start Capacitor and a Current Relay. This unit uses a CSIR (Capacitor Start, Induction Run) motor, meaning it must have the start capacitor connected to start against pressure.
Q: What type of oil comes inside, and can I top it off with Mineral Oil? A: It comes pre-charged with 350ml of POE 22 (Polyolester) oil. You cannot mix this with Mineral Oil or Alkylbenzene. If you are retrofitting an older system, you must ensure the piping is thoroughly flushed of old mineral oil before installing this compressor, as mixing oils can create sludge that blocks the capillary tube.
Q: My current compressor is a Danfoss/Secop SC12CL. Is this a direct replacement? A: It is a close functional alternative, but not a drop-in replacement. The Embraco NEK6165GK is physically smaller (compact NEK shell) and the pipe positions may differ. You will likely need to adjust the copper suction and discharge lines. Always check the cooling capacity (Watts) rather than just HP when crossing references.
Q: What are the electrical requirements? A: This specific model is 220-240V / 50Hz.
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Warning: If you are in a region with 60Hz power (like parts of the Philippines, Brazil, or the USA), do not install this specific SKU. It will run 20% faster, draw higher amperage, and likely trip the thermal overload.