j) When the cylinders have been filled correctly and the process completed,
make sure
that the cylinders and the equipment are removed from site promptly and
all isolation valves on the equipment are closed off.
k) Recovered refrigerant shall not be charged into another refrigeration
system unless it has been cleaned and checked.
10 laBellInG
Equipment shall be labelled stating that it has been de-commissioned and
emptied of refrigerant. The label shall be dated and signed.
Ensure that there are labels on the equipment stating the equipment
contains flammable refrigerant.
11 recOVerY
When removing refrigerant from a system, either for servicing or
decommissioning, it is recommended good practice that all refrigerants
are removed safely. When transferring refrigerant into cylinders, ensure
that only appropriate refrigerant recovery cylinders are employed. Ensure
that the correct number of cylinders for holding the total system charge
are available.All cylinders to be used are designated for the recovered
refrigerant and labelled for that refrigerant (i.e. special cylinders for the
recovery of refrigerant). Cylinders shall be complete with pressure relief
valve and associated shut-off valves in good working order. Empty recovery
cylinders are evacuated and, if possible, cooled before recovery occurs.
The recovery equipment shall be in good working order with a set of
instructions concerning the equipment that is at hand and shall be suitable
for the recovery of flammable refrigerants.In addition,a set of calibrated
weighing scales shall be available and in good working order. Hoses shall
be complete with leak-free disconnect couplings and in good condition.
Before using the recovery machine, check that it is in satisfactory working
order, has been properly maintained and that any associated electrical
components are sealed to prevent ignition in the event of a refrigerant
release. Consult manufacturer if in doubt.
The recovered refrigerant shall be returned to the refrigerant supplier in the
correct recovery cylinder,and the relevant Waste Transfer Note arranged.
Do not mix refrigerants in recovery units and especially not in cylinders.
If compressors or compressor oils are to be removed, ensure that they have
been evacuated to an acceptable level to make certain that flammable
refrigerant does not remain within the lubricant. The evacuation process
shall be carried out prior to returning the compressor to the suppliers. Only
electric heating to the compressor body shall be employed to accelerate
this process.When oil is drained from a system,it shall be carried out safely.
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