Panasonic C-SDN453H8B Scroll Compressor – 5 HP / 60,000 BTU, R410A, ECO-i VRF Fixed Speed

The Panasonic C-SDN453H8B is a 5 HP (≈60,000 BTU) class, fixed-speed hermetic scroll compressor used in Panasonic ECO-i VRF (2-pipe ME1 series) outdoor units. It runs on R410A. In these units it works alongside the DC inverter rotary compressor that modulates capacity: when the load increases, it switches on and adds stepped capacity to the system.

The Fixed-Speed Scroll Compressor of the ECO-i VRF Outdoor Unit

• Which units use it: In the U-10ME1E8 (1 unit), U-14ME1E8 (1 unit) and U-18ME1E8 (2 units) outdoor units — according to the Panasonic service manual compressor list. The 6 HP equivalent in the same position is the C-SDN523H8B.
• Role in the system: In the ECO-i outdoor unit, compressor 1 is a DC inverter rotary, and compressors 2 and 3 are fixed-speed scrolls. The inverter compressor has priority; as the load increases, the fixed-speed compressors are brought on in sequence.
• Scroll advantage: Few moving parts, low vibration and quiet operation; a long-lasting and economical solution as a fixed-speed stage.
• Protected operation: The unit monitors this compressor with an oil temperature sensor and overcurrent protection; in the event of a fault it displays the relevant alarm code.

Technical Specifications and Replacement Notes

• Model: Panasonic C-SDN453H8B  |  Supply Code: 10.183.0044
• Type: Hermetic scroll, fixed speed (constant speed)
• Power Class: 5 HP (≈60,000 BTU/h)  |  Refrigerant: R410A
• Power Supply: 380-415 V, 3N~, 50 Hz three-phase
• Oil: Ester (POE)  |  Charge: 1.7 L (factory pre-charge)
• Application: High back pressure (HBP) — air conditioning / VRF
• Sister model: C-SDN523H8B (6 HP)  |  Inverter compressor in the unit: C-9RVN273H0F / C-9RVN393H0S

• 🔧 Check the phase sequence. A scroll compresses in one direction only; in reverse rotation no pressure builds up and noise increases — swap two phases and try again.
• When replacing, measure the oil in the removed compressor and top up to 1.7 L; the manual requires the remaining oil to be measured. Excess oil circulates in the system and reduces capacity.
• R410A is a high-pressure refrigerant: Charge in the liquid phase and pull a deep vacuum; since ester oil absorbs moisture, remove the plugs immediately before installation.