Aktobis AG, Borsigstr. 20, D-63110 Rodgau / Germany
www.AKTOBIS.de
Email: info@aktobis.de
NOTE: The use of silicone sealants may hinder the effectiveness of some leak detectors.
Intrinsically safe components do not need to be sealed before working on them.
10. Repair of intrinsically safe components
Do not apply a permanent inductive load or capacitive load to the circuit without ensuring that
this does not exceed the permissible voltage and current for the equipment being used.
Intrinsically safe components are the only types that can be worked on while connected to the
mains in the presence of a flammable atmosphere. The test equipment must have the correct
ratings. Replace components only with parts specified by the manufacturer. Other parts may
cause the refrigerant to ignite in the atmosphere due to a leak.
11. Wiring
Check that the wiring is not subject to wear, corrosion, excessive pressure, vibration, sharp
edges or other harmful environmental effects. The test must also take into account the effects of
ageing or continuous vibration from sources such as compressors or fans.
12. Detection of flammable refrigerants
Under no circumstances should potential sources of ignition be used when searching for or
detecting refrigerant leaks. A halogen search lamp (or any other search device that uses open
flames) must not be used.
13. Leak detection methods
The following leak detection methods are considered acceptable for systems containing
flammable refrigerants.
Electronic leak detectors must be used to detect flammable refrigerants, but their sensitivity may
not be sufficient or they may need to be recalibrated. (Detection equipment must be calibrated
in a refrigerant-free area.) Ensure that the leak detector is not a potential source of ignition and
that it is suitable for the refrigerant being used. Leak detection equipment must be set to a
percentage of the lower explosion limit and must be calibrated to the refrigerant used and the
adequate percentage of gas (25% maximum) must be confirmed.
Leak detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants, but the use of cleaning agents
containing chlorine must be avoided as chlorine can react with the refrigerant and degrade the
copper piping.
If a leak is suspected, remove/extinguish all naked flames.
If a refrigerant leak is detected that requires brazing, all refrigerant must be recovered from the
refrigeration system or isolated (by shutting off valves) in a part of the system remote from the
leak. Oxygen-free nitrogen must then be purged through the system before and during the
brazing process.
14. Removal and emptying
If you intervene in the refrigerant circuit to carry out repairs - or for any other reason -
conventional methods must be used. However, it is important that best practices are always
followed, as flammability must be considered. The following procedure should be followed:
- Remove the refrigerant
- Purge the circuit with inert gas
- Deflate
- Rinse again with inert gas
- Open the circuit by cutting or soldering
