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Section E
• Filled cylinders should periodically be analyzed for air (nonabsorbable gas or
NAG).
Refrigerant Recovery Systems
Efficient recovery of refrigerant from equipment or containers requires evacuation
at the end of the recovery cycle. Suction lines to a recovery compressor should be
periodically checked for leaks to prevent compressing air into the recovery cylinder
during evacuation. In addition, the recovery cylinder pressure should be monitored,
and evacuation stopped in the event of a rapid pressure rise indicating the
presence of noncondensable air. The recovery cylinder contents should then be
analyzed for NAG, and the recovery system leak checked if air is present. DO NOT
continue to evacuate a refrigeration system that has a major leak.
Thermal Decomposition
HFC-134a vapors will decompose when exposed to high temperatures from
flames or electric resistance heaters. Decomposition may produce toxic and
irritating compounds, such as hydrogen fluoride. The pungent odors released will
irritate the nose and throat and generally force people to evacuate the area.
Therefore, it is important to prevent decomposition by avoiding exposure to high
temperatures.
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