compressor ball bearing specification

[Greg Carter]

Hello,

I am replacing 18- 11/32 ball bearings in a vane type automotive a/c compressor that gets pretty hot with low lubrication. The balls are

contained in a rack exposed to lubricant that is cycling with the refrigerant.

The balls twirl in place, rather that roll.

The load on them, I'm assuming is the high side refrigerant pressure divided by 18, usually under 400 psi.(divided by

18= under 25 lbs.)

Does anyone know what material these balls should be made out of?

The ones I'm replacing were darkened, but looked milky after dipping them in CLR overnite. They also have some flat

spots on them.

Thanks ahead if you can help me with this..

Greg Carter