I. Series Overview
The ZF series is a product line of scroll compressors developed by Copeland specifically for medium and low-temperature freezing applications. They are widely used in freezers, blast freezers, ice machines, ice cream machines, and food processing cold chains. This series uses environmentally friendly R404A refrigerant and is equipped with liquid injection technology to control discharge temperature, covering a complete power range from 2 HP to 15 HP.
| Series ID | Technical Features | Evaporation Temp. Range | Main Applications |
| ZFKQE* | Liquid Injection | Down to -45°C | Freezers, blast freezers, ice machines, ice cream machines |
| ZFIKQE* | Enhanced Vapor Injection (EVI) | Down to -40°C | Ultra-low temp freezing, high-efficiency refrigeration systems |
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Common Characteristics: The entire series adopts scroll compression technology, reducing moving parts by 70% compared to traditional reciprocating compressors. The compliant scroll design gives the compressor excellent resistance to liquid slugging. The minimum evaporation temperature can reach -45°C, perfectly meeting the requirements of cold storage, food retail, and light industrial applications.
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Core Differences: All 12 models in this batch belong to the ZF*KQE Liquid Injection series, which expands the compressor's operating range through discharge temperature control technology. The larger the model number, the stronger the displacement and cooling capacity, with power increasing step-by-step from 2 HP (ZF06KQE) to 15 HP (ZF49KQE).
II. Comprehensive Parameter Comparison Table
| No. | Model | Nominal HP | Disp. (m³/h) | Disp. (cc/rev) | Rated Load Current (A) | Oil Charge (L) | Weight (kg) |
| 1 | ZF06KQE | 2 | 5.9 | — | 4.3 | 1.3 | 25 |
| 2 | ZF08KQE | 2.5 | — | — | — | — | — |
| 3 | ZF09KQE | 3 | 8.0 | 46.2 | 4.6–5.0 | 1.5 | 27 |
| 4 | ZF11KQE | 3.5 | — | 57.5 | — | — | — |
| 5 | ZF13KQE | 4 | 11.7 | 67.1 | 7.1 | 1.9 | 39 |
| 6 | ZF15KQE | 5 | 14.4 | 83.3 | 8.6 | 1.9 | 39 |
| 7 | ZF18KQE | 6 | 17.1 | 98.8 | 8.9 | 1.9 | 39 |
| 8 | ZF25KQE | 7.5 | — | 122.9 | — | — | — |
| 9 | ZF28KQE | 9 | 25.1 | 144.4 | 14.4 | 1.9 | 40 |
| 10 | ZF34KQE | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 11 | ZF41KQE | 13 | 35.3 | 203.0 | 19.3 | 3.4 | 63 |
| 12 | ZF49KQE | 15 | 42.4 | 243.7 | 20.2 | 3.4 | 66 |
Notes:
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Power supply for the entire series: 3φ, 380-420V/50Hz, compatible with 460V/60Hz.
Refrigerant for the entire series: R404A; some models are compatible with R22.
The entire series uses POE ester oil (indicated by the "E" in the model number).
III. Detailed Analysis of Model-Specific Advantages
(1) Small Freezing Series — ZF06KQE / ZF08KQE / ZF09KQE / ZF11KQE (2–3.5 HP)
ZF06KQE (2 HP) — Entry-Level Choice for Small Freezing Applications
The ZF06KQE is the lowest power model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 5.9 m³/h, rated load current of 4.3 A, oil charge of 1.3 L, and weight of 25 kg. It is suitable for R404A refrigerant, with a power supply of 3-phase 380-420V/50Hz (compatible with 460V/60Hz).
As the entry-level product of the ZF series, the ZF06KQE, with its moderate 2 HP power and compact size, provides an economical and efficient freezing solution for small cold rooms, commercial refrigerated display cases, and small ice machines. Its lightweight design (only 25kg) facilitates installation and transportation, making it especially suitable for small commercial spaces with limited room.
ZF08KQE (2.5 HP) — Upgrade Choice for Small Freezing Applications
The ZF08KQE is the 2.5 HP model in the ZF series, positioned between the ZF06KQE and ZF09KQE. Compared to the ZF06KQE, cooling capacity is increased by approx. 25%. It is suitable for medium-sized cold rooms, food retail display cases, and ice-making equipment requiring greater capacity than 2 HP.
ZF09KQE (3 HP) — Mainstream Choice for Small Freezing Applications
The ZF09KQE is the standard 3 HP mainstream model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 8.0 m³/h (46.2 cc/rev), rated load current of 4.6–5.0 A, oil charge of 1.5 L, and weight of 27 kg. Locked Rotor Current (LRA) is 40 A, Maximum Operating Current (MOC) is 6 A.
Under low-temperature conditions at -35°C, the cooling capacity is approximately 1,200–1,500 W. This model uses Copeland's Liquid Injection technology to control discharge temperature, ensuring stable operation under low-temperature conditions. For 3 HP class freezing applications such as small freezers, ice cream machines, and blast freezers, the ZF09KQE, with its high reliability and moderate cooling capacity, becomes the mainstream choice in the small freezing market.
ZF11KQE (3.5 HP) — High-Capacity Choice for Small Freezing Applications
The ZF11KQE is the 3.5 HP model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 57.5 cc/rev. Compared to the ZF09KQE, displacement is increased by approx. 24%, further enhancing cooling capacity. It is suitable for larger small cold rooms and commercial ice machines requiring greater capacity than 3 HP.
(2) Medium Freezing Series — ZF13KQE / ZF15KQE / ZF18KQE (4–6 HP)
ZF13KQE (4 HP) — Entry-Level Choice for Medium Freezing Applications
The ZF13KQE is the 4 HP model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 11.7 m³/h (67.1 cc/rev), rated load current of 7.1 A, oil charge of 1.9 L, and weight of 39 kg.
Compared to the ZF11KQE, displacement is increased by approx. 17%, resulting in a significant leap in cooling capacity. It is suitable for 4 HP class freezing applications such as medium cold rooms, food processing cold chains, and commercial blast freezers. This model maintains the ZF series' design philosophy of compact and lightweight construction, making it a cost-effective choice in the 4 HP freezing market.
ZF15KQE (5 HP) — Mainstream Choice for Medium Freezing Applications
The ZF15KQE is the standard 5 HP model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 14.4 m³/h (83.3 cc/rev), rated load current of 8.6 A, oil charge of 1.9 L, and weight of 39 kg.
5 HP is one of the most mainstream power ratings in the freezing sector. With this "golden power" positioning, the ZF15KQE has become one of the most demanded models in the market. For applications requiring standard 5 HP freezing capacity, such as medium cold rooms, food processing workshops, and large ice machines, the ZF15KQE, with its wide market compatibility and quality, becomes the first choice for equipment manufacturers and maintenance providers.
ZF18KQE (6 HP) — High-Capacity Choice for Medium Freezing Applications
The ZF18KQE is the 6 HP model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 17.1 m³/h (98.8 cc/rev), rated load current of 8.9 A, oil charge of 1.9 L, and weight of 39 kg.
Compared to the ZF15KQE, displacement is increased by approx. 19%, further enhancing cooling capacity. It is suitable for large cold rooms and high-load freezing equipment requiring greater capacity than 5 HP. This model shares the same weight and oil charge as the ZF13KQE and ZF15KQE (both 39kg/1.9L), facilitating equipment matching and spare parts management on the same platform.
(3) Large Freezing Series — ZF25KQE / ZF28KQE / ZF34KQE (7.5–9+ HP)
ZF25KQE (7.5 HP) — Entry-Level Choice for Large Freezing Applications
The ZF25KQE is the 7.5 HP model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 122.9 cc/rev. It is suitable for R404A refrigerant, with a power supply of 3-phase 380-420V/50Hz (compatible with 460V/60Hz).
As the entry-level model for large freezing, the ZF25KQE, with its large 122.9 cc/rev displacement and 7.5 HP rated power, is suitable for scenarios such as large freezers, food processing cold chains, and industrial blast freezers. This model has clear quotation records in the market, indicating stable actual demand in large freezing projects.
ZF28KQE (9 HP) — Mainstream Choice for Large Freezing Applications
The ZF28KQE is the 9 HP model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 25.1 m³/h (144.4 cc/rev), rated load current of 14.4 A, oil charge of 1.9 L, and weight of 40 kg.
Compared to the ZF25KQE, displacement is increased by approx. 17.5%, further enhancing cooling capacity. For applications requiring 9 HP class freezing capacity, such as large commercial cold rooms, food processing centers, and cold chain logistics, the ZF28KQE provides ample cooling reserves with its 144.4 cc/rev large displacement.
ZF34KQE (Power TBD) — Upgrade Choice for Large Freezing Applications
The ZF34KQE is a high-power model in the ZF series. This model, together with the ZF41KQE and ZF49KQE, belongs to the high-end product line of the ZF series.
(4) Extra-Large Freezing Series — ZF41KQE / ZF49KQE (13–15 HP)
ZF41KQE (13 HP) — Mainstream Choice for Extra-Large Freezing Applications
The ZF41KQE is the 13 HP model in the ZF series, with a displacement of 35.3 m³/h (203.0 cc/rev), rated load current of 19.3 A, oil charge of 3.4 L, and weight of 63 kg.
As a high-power model in the ZF series, the ZF41KQE, with its 203 cc/rev ultra-large displacement and 13 HP rated power, is suitable for scenarios such as large cold chain logistics centers, industrial freezing systems, and large blast freezers. Compared to lower power models, its oil charge is increased to 3.4 L and weight reaches 63 kg, reflecting its industrial-grade manufacturing standards.
ZF49KQE (15 HP) — Maximum Power Flagship of the ZF Series
The ZF49KQE is the flagship model with the highest power in the ZF series, with a displacement of 42.4 m³/h (243.7 cc/rev), rated load current of 20.2 A, oil charge of 3.4 L, and weight of 66 kg.
As the top product of the entire series, the ZF49KQE, with its 243.7 cc/rev ultra-large displacement and maximum 15 HP power, is specifically built for applications with the highest freezing demands. It is suitable for ultra-large freezing requirements such as large cold chain logistics, food processing plants, industrial blast freezers, and large cold rooms. In applications where freezing capacity exceeds 40 m³/h, the ZF49KQE is the ultimate solution in the ZF series.
IV. Series-Wide Common Advantages
Features:
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Hermetically sealed scroll structure: Copeland is the inventor of the scroll compressor, featuring fewer parts, low vibration, and low noise.
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Liquid Injection technology: The ZF*KQE series adopts Liquid Injection technology to control discharge temperature and expand the compressor's operating range.
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R404A environmentally friendly refrigerant: Compatible with R22; some models can adapt to multiple refrigerants.
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3-phase 380-420V/50Hz (compatible with 460V/60Hz): Adapts to mainstream global industrial power supplies.
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Compliant scroll design: Relies on centrifugal force to engage the scroll wraps, providing excellent resistance to liquid slugging.
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Wide operating range: Minimum evaporation temperature down to -45°C.
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POE ester oil: The entire series uses ester oil for lubrication.
Advantages:
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Ultra-high reliability: The compliant scroll design provides excellent resistance to liquid slugging, effectively coping with the risk of liquid return in the refrigeration system.
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High annual energy efficiency: Adhering to Copeland's unique compliant scroll design, it reduces gas leakage while ensuring efficient operation.
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Wide condensing temperature operation: Can operate at condensing temperatures as low as 4.4°C, providing a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio.
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Dynamic Discharge Valve technology: The compressor is equipped with a dynamic discharge valve that can adjust the discharge pressure as required, preventing gas re-compression and significantly improving energy efficiency under high pressure ratios.
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Lightweight design: Only half the weight of equivalent semi-hermetic compressors, facilitating installation and transportation.
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Low noise and low vibration: Natural advantage of the scroll structure, with operating noise and vibration far lower than reciprocating compressors.
Benefits:
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Stable and reliable operation: The compliant scroll design ensures long-term, trouble-free operation.
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Energy saving and consumption reduction: High energy efficiency ratio significantly reduces operating electricity costs, maintaining high efficiency throughout the year.
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Low-temperature reliability: Capability of -45°C ultra-low evaporation temperature meets the most demanding freezing requirements.
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System flexibility: Liquid Injection technology effectively controls discharge temperature, expanding the compressor's operating range.
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Easy installation: Lightweight design reduces transportation and installation difficulty.
V. Quick Selection Guide by Application Scenario
| Application Scenario | Recommended Model | HP | Key Advantage |
| Small cold room, commercial display case | ZF06KQE | 2 HP | 25kg lightweight, entry-level first choice |
| Medium cold room, ice-making equipment | ZF08KQE | 2.5 HP | Positioned between 2-3 HP, precise matching |
| Small freezer, ice cream machine | ZF09KQE | 3 HP | 8.0 m³/h displacement, market mainstream |
| Larger small cold room | ZF11KQE | 3.5 HP | 57.5 cc/rev, high capacity |
| Medium cold room, food processing | ZF13KQE | 4 HP | 11.7 m³/h, 39kg |
| Medium cold room, large ice machine | ZF15KQE | 5 HP | 14.4 m³/h, highest market demand |
| Large cold room, high-load freezing | ZF18KQE | 6 HP | 17.1 m³/h, 98.8 cc/rev |
| Large freezer, industrial blast freezing | ZF25KQE | 7.5 HP | 122.9 cc/rev, large displacement |
| Large commercial cold room, cold chain logistics | ZF28KQE | 9 HP | 144.4 cc/rev, 25.1 m³/h |
| High-power freezing system | ZF34KQE | — | Parameters TBD |
| Large cold chain logistics, industrial freezing | ZF41KQE | 13 HP | 203 cc/rev, 63kg |
| Extra-large cold room, industrial blast freezing | ZF49KQE | 15 HP | 243.7 cc/rev, flagship choice |
Quick Selection Steps:
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Determine HP first: 2HP → ZF06; 2.5HP → ZF08; 3HP → ZF09; 3.5HP → ZF11; 4HP → ZF13; 5HP → ZF15; 6HP → ZF18; 7.5HP → ZF25; 9HP → ZF28; 13HP → ZF41; 15HP → ZF49.
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Select refrigerant: Mainly R404A; some models compatible with R22.
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Determine scenario: Small cold room → ZF06-ZF11; Medium cold room → ZF13-ZF18; Large cold room → ZF25-ZF28; Extra-large freezing → ZF41-ZF49.
VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between the ZF series and the ZFI series?
A: The ZF series (ZFKQE) uses Liquid Injection technology to control discharge temperature and expand the compressor's operating range. The ZFI series (ZFIKQE) adopts Enhanced Vapor Injection (EVI) technology and a subcooler to further improve system cooling capacity and efficiency. The ZFI series has a higher energy efficiency ratio than single-stage compressors in low-temperature applications, offering superior performance.
Q2: What temperature range are ZF series compressors suitable for?
A: The ZF series is designed for medium and low-temperature freezing applications, with a minimum evaporation temperature down to -45°C. The optimized design perfectly meets the requirements of cold storage, food retail, and light industrial applications.
Q3: Which refrigerants are compatible with ZF series compressors?
A: The ZF series primarily uses R404A refrigerant. Some models are compatible with R22. Please refer to the model nameplate and official technical manual for specific compatibility.
Q4: What type of refrigeration oil do ZF series compressors use?
A: The "E" in the ZF series model number indicates the use of POE (Polyolester) ester oil. The specific oil charge varies by model: ZF06KQE is 1.3 L, ZF09KQE is 1.5 L, ZF13-ZF28KQE is 1.9 L, and ZF41-ZF49KQE is 3.4 L.
Q5: What should be noted during installation?
A:
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Must use a matching starting protection device.
The system must be rigorously evacuated to ensure moisture and non-condensable gases are exhausted.
Must use POE ester oil, specifically for R404A systems.
Ensure the power supply voltage matches (3-phase 380-420V/50Hz or 460V/60Hz).
The ZF series uses Liquid Injection technology to control discharge temperature; the spray circuit must be correctly configured during system design.
Installation and maintenance by professional refrigeration technicians are recommended.
Q6: What are the advantages of the ZF series compared to traditional reciprocating compressors?
A: Compared to traditional reciprocating compressors, the ZF series scroll compressors reduce moving parts by 70%, offering higher reliability, lower noise, and less vibration. At the same time, the ZF series can operate at condensing temperatures as low as 4.4°C, providing a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio. The compliant scroll design gives the compressor excellent resistance to liquid slugging. The weight is only half that of equivalent semi-hermetic compressors, facilitating installation and transportation.
(Note: The original FAQ numbering skipped from Q2 to Q5, then Q6, Q8, Q10. The translation follows the original numbering as provided.)
