Responsible Refrigeration
an installation or maintenance as a flammable hazard zone . This zone must be free from all forms of ignition .
Handling and storage requirements for flammable refrigerant cylinders are similar to those used for liquefied petroleum gas ( LPG ). As a normal rule , the maximum quantity of gas in cylinders stored or used indoors in residential premises must not exceed 10kg in weight or be less . It should be remembered that flammable refrigerants usually come in small cylinders and the allowable charges you would encounter are in the hundreds of grams
" Handling and storage requirements for flammable refrigerant cylinders are similar to those used for liquefied petroleum gas ( LPG )."
Only special vacuum pumps suitable for flammable refrigerant gases must be used . A two stage vacuum pump is recommended for evacuating a system , Always try to pull a vacuum to between
200-500 microns . Electronic vacuum gauges , if used , must be designed for use with flammable refrigerants .
Because of the very small charges of flammable refrigerants , the charge volumes can only be measured with an accurate scale . It is therefore important to control and monitor the refrigerant charge with an accurate weighing scale .
SOME DO ’ S AND DON ’ TS
• Always wear appropriate personal protection gear .
• The storage area for refrigerant cylinders must be well ventilated and free of combustible materials .
• Keep the cylinders away from sources of heat and out of direct sun , especially in a yard or on a bakkie .
• Do not store the cylinders near sources of ignition like electrical power outlets , lights and switches or electric motors .
• Power tools and chargeable hand drills and screwdrivers , vacuum pumps and recovery equipment must be rated flame proof and for hazardous area use .
• Any potential ignition sources must be at least 3 metres away .
• Never lay refrigerant cylinders on their side and protect the cylinders from falling or being knocked over . RACA
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RACA Journal I November 2021 www . hvacronline . co . za