Why is mineral oil preferred for use with R-22 compressors?

Mineral oil is preferred for use with R-22 compressors primarily due to its compatibility with the refrigerant. R-22 is a chlorine-based hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant (HCFC), and mineral oils have the necessary chemical properties to mix effectively with R-22, ensuring proper lubrication and function of the compressor. This compatibility helps in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of the compressor by ensuring that lubrication is optimal and that there is no risk of oil separation that could lead to compressor failure.

The other options present various advantages of oils, but they do not align specifically with the reason mineral oil is chosen for R-22 systems. The flash point of the oil, for instance, while important for safety, does not specifically address compatibility issues. Similarly, while reducing wear on components and providing better heat transfer properties are beneficial characteristics of lubricants in general, they do not capture the fundamental requirement for compatibility with the refrigerant the compressor uses. Thus, the correct focus is on the compatibility that mineral oil provides with R-22.