Description general

DESCRIPTION GENERAL

The manually-operated air conditioner completely handles the air admitted into the car: in fact it cools the air in summer, but also carries out other functions such as dehumidifying and recirculation.

The system can be subdivided into two sections:

• group comprising the air flow and distribution unit;
• closed loop cooling system.

N.B.:

The SPIDER and GTV cars are fitted with a variable displacement/flow rate compressor which "follows" the load required by the system without continuous engagement/disengagement of the compressor joint. The changes in the flow rate of the refrigerant according to the pressures makes it possible to compensate for the change in the number of revolutions of the compressor (linked to engine rpm) to adapt the amount of "cold" produced according to the requirements of the system.

REFRIGERANT FLUID: R134a

For the above-mentioned air conditioning system ecological fluid R134a is used which does not contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), one of the chemical substances that causes the reduction of the ozone layer in the atmosphere.

The systems working with R134a are clearly distinguished by the wording "R134a" on the main components.

• The R134a refrigerant fluid cannot be mixed with the Freon R12 used in the air conditioners of previous cars; therefore never use Freon R12 under any circumstance whatsoever for conditions with R134a.

• All the components of the system for the use of R134a are specific and NOT INTERCHANGEABLE with those of the previous cars with R12.

• The emptying/recovery station is especially for R13a fluid.

• The compressor lubricating oil is also specific and differs from the one used for the systems with Freon R12.

AIR FLOW AND DISTRIBUTION UNIT OPERATING LAYOUT

The flow of outside air (A) is ducted towards the inside of the car passing through the motorised adjustment flap (1), the fan (7) and the evaporator (6) where, if the air conditioner is not cut out, it is cooled and dehumidified.

NOTE: If the recirculation function is activated, the flow of air (B) leads directly from the passenger compartment.

Depending on the position of the mixing port (5), the flow of air leading from the evaporator (6) is ducted completely to the distribution vents (2 and 3) - cold air - or it partially or totally reaches the heater radiator (4) - warm air - and then passes through it to the distribution ports (2 and 3). Depending on the position of the upper distribution port (2) and the lower port (3), the flow of air is directed to the various vents and outlets.

1. Outside air flow adjustment and recirculation flap
2. Upper distribution port
3. Lower distribution port
4. Heater radiator
5. Mixing port
6. Evaporator
7. Fan
8. Outside air flow
9. Recirculation air flow
10. Flow of air leaving the windscreen vents
11. Flow of air leaving the front, centre and side outlets
12. Flow of air leaving the lower vents