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.
13. Charging procedures
In addition to conventional charging procedures, the following requirements shall be
followed:
– Ensure that contamination of different refrigerants does not occur when using
charging equipment.
– Hoses or lines shall be as short as possible to minimise the amount of refrigerant
contained in them.
– Cylinders shall be kept upright.
– Ensure that the refrigeration system is earthed prior to charging the system with
refrigerant.
– Label the system when charging is complete (if not already).
– Extreme care shall be taken not to overfill the refrigeration system. Prior to
recharging the system it shall be pressure tested with OFN.
The system shall be leak tested on completion of charging but prior to commissioning.
A follow up leak test shall be carried out prior to leaving the site.
14. Decommissioning
Before carrying out this procedure, it is essential that the technician is completely
familiar with the equipment and all its detail.
It is recommended good practice that all refrigerants are recovered safely. Prior to the
task being carried out, an oil and refrigerant sample shall be taken in case analysis is
required prior to re-use of reclaimed refrigerant. It is essential that electrical power is
available before the task is commenced.
a) Become familiar with the equipment and its operation.
b) Isolate system electrically.
c) Before attempting the procedure ensure that:
– Mechanical handling equipment is available, if required, for handling refrigerant
cylinders;
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