Which property of Polyol Ester Oils allows them to absorb moisture?

Polyol ester oils are characterized by their hygroscopic nature, which means they have the ability to absorb moisture from the environment. This property is significant in refrigeration systems, as moisture can lead to various issues, including corrosion and reduced efficiency.

Hygroscopic substances attract and hold water molecules, making them effective in applications where moisture control is critical. In the context of refrigerants and lubricants like polyol esters, moisture absorption can help in reducing the risk of ice formation in system components, which is important for the seamless operation of HVAC systems.

On the other hand, the non-hygroscopic nature, high flash point, and low viscosity attributes do not contribute positively to moisture absorption. Non-hygroscopic substances actually repel moisture, while a high flash point indicates a reduced risk of ignition, which has no direct relation to moisture absorption. Low viscosity relates to the flow characteristics of the oil but doesn’t influence its ability to absorb water. Thus, the hygroscopic nature of polyol ester oils is the key factor behind their capability to absorb moisture.