PRODUCTS & PROCESSES
ProSolv ® 5408e cleaning solvent for flushing refrigeration pipeline systems
Concerns connected with the challenging environmental profile of traditional refrigerant gases have led to changes in legislation which are a driving factor in phase-outs and bans on the use of some gases to remove the older materials typically with high ozone depletion ( ODP ) and global warming potential ( GWP ).
Systems can be replaced or refurbished with new models using compressors able to use more sustainable and acceptable gases . The evolving trend to newer refrigerants continues as the chemistries develop . The refrigerant R-22 , which itself was an improvement over earlier refrigerants , is phased out and replaced with R-410a and other alternatives based on HFOs are being marketed . Retrofitting of current refrigeration systems to accommodate the new developments is not straightforward as most refrigerant gases are not cross-compatible , so the necessity to completely remove all traces of the older versions from the system , including refrigerant lines is essential . Of course , where possible it is best simply to replace existing lines with new ones . However , it is not always possible to do this cost-effectively , especially when the old piping runs under floors or through walls . In such cases thoroughly flushing existing pipework is especially important because even tiny traces of impurities left in the lines can damage new equipment and lead to compressor failure .
The perfect solvent for flush cleaning refrigeration pipework
Your first step to proper pipework flushing is to select the right solvent . The solvent you choose must be highly effective at dissolving oil grease and other contaminants , to ensure that all residue is removed from the pipes and must be sustainable , environmentally friendly and comply with current legislation .
ProSolv ® 5408e is the ideal solution to this problem with a profile of properties and advantages making it perfect as your solvent of choice for refrigerant pipeline flushing .
No flash point . Non flammable liquid .
High specific gravity gives a high soil suspension loading .
High solvency strength . With a KB value of 98 .
ProSolv ® 5408e is a Powerful cleaning agent that can flush lines fast , dissolving oil and grease releasing soils from the inner surfaces of pipelines and fittings
Volatile for fast evaporation . Removing ALL solvent from the pipework after flushing is vital , ProSolv ® 5408e is very volatile so evaporates fast .
Environmentally responsible . ProSolv ® 5408e is sustainable and kind to the environment with very low global warming potential , zero ozone depleting potential ( ODP ).
Safe for operators when user conditions are followed .
Economical as it is easily distilled for reuse . No testing or stabilisation required .
Procedure for flush cleaning refrigerant pipelines with ProSolv ® 5408e
Of course , simply replacing old piping is the only way to be 100 percent sure that your lines are clean . But in retrofit situations where complete replacement is not possible , flushing the lines with ProSolv ® 5408e solvent is the best alternative solution for the protection and long working life of your refrigeration system upgrade .
1 - Remove any obstacles . Any equipment and components such as valve , filters and expansion valves that might obstruct the line should be removed prior to the purge .
2 - Pre-flush . This will dislodge any loose debris from the sides of the lines enabling more effective use of the solvent , oil free air or nitrogen at 120 psi is recommended . It ’ s also good practice to oscillate the pressure to encourage dislodging of debris .
3 - Preparing the pipework . Reducing the length of piping can be more effective due to the pressure loss in long lengths . Section the operation into 15 metre lengths by cutting pipes where necessary . One end of the pipe must be fitted with a connector for the pipe to the nitrogen supply while the exit needs a restrictor valve to allow variable pressures to shock loose particles from internal walls .
IMPORTANT - Flushing with solvent . Refer to ProSolv ® 5408e Safety Data Sheets for advice on operator protection using solvents .
4 - Safe working . Full PPE with suitable eye protection goggles and gloves must be worn .
60 APRIL 2021 read online : www . surfaceworld . com