PROCOOL 16 E
ENGLISH
EN - 9
27. LEAK DETECTION METhODS
The following leak detection methods are deemed acceptable for systems
containing flammable refrigerants.
Electronic leak detectors shall be used to detect flammable refrigerants, but
the sensitivity may not be adequate, or may need re-calibration. (Detection
equipment shall be calibrated in a refrigerant-free area).
Ensure that the detector is not a potential source of ignition and is suitable for
the refrigerant used
Leak detection equipment shall be set at a percentage of the LFL of the
refrigerant and shall be calibrated to the refrigerant employed and the
appropriate percentage of gas (25 % maximum) is confirmed.
Leak detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants but the use of
detergents containing chlorine shall be avoided as the chlorine may react with
the refrigerant and corrode the copper pipe-work.
If a leak is suspected, all naked flames shall be removed/ extinguished.
If a leakage of refrigerant is found which requires brazing, all of the refrigerant
shall be recovered from the system, or isolated (by means of shut off valves)
in a part of the system remote from the leak.
Oxygen free nitrogen (OFn) shall then be purged through the system both
before and during the brazing process.
28. REmOVaL anD EVaCuaTIOn
When breaking into the refrigerant circuit to make repairs or for any other
purpose conventional procedures shall be used.
However, it is important that best practice is followed since flammability is a
consideration.
The following procedure shall be adhered to:
• Remove refrigerant;
• Purge the circuit with inert gas;
• Evacuate;
• Purge again with inert gas;
• Open the circuit by cutting or brazing.
The refrigerant charge shall be recovered into the correct recovery cylinders.
The system shall be flushed with OFn to render the unit safe.
This process may need to be repeated several times.
Compressed air or oxygen shall not be used for this task.
Flushing shall be achieved by breaking the vacuum in the system with OFn
and continuing to fill until the working pressure is achieved, then venting to
atmosphere, and finally pulling down to a vacuum.
This process shall be repeated until no refrigerant is within the system. When
the final OFn charge is used, the system shall be vented down to atmospheric
pressure to enable work to take place.
This operation is absolutely vital if brazing operations on the pipe-work are to
take place.
Ensure that the outlet for the vacuum pump is not close to any ignition sources
and there is ventilation available.
