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English
2 - Safety
2.7 Precaution for Using R32 Refrigerant
The basic installation work procedures are the same as conventional
refrigerant (R410A, R22) models. However, pay careful attention to
the following points:
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Since the working pressure is higher than that of refrigerant R22
models, some of the piping and installation and service tools
are unique. R22 renewal with R32 is possible as long as the
pipe thickness is in compliance with EN 14276-2 and flares are
remade.
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Models that use refrigerant R32 and R410A have a different
charging port thread diameter to prevent erroneous charging with
refrigerant R22 and for safety. Therefore, check beforehand. [The
charging port thread diameter for R32 and R410A is 12.7 mm
(1/2 inch).]
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Be more careful than R22 so that foreign matter (oil, water, etc.)
does not enter the piping. Also, when storing the piping, securely
seal the opening by pinching, taping, etc. (Handling of R32 is
similar to R410A.)
Installation (Space)
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Ensure that the pipe-work installation is kept to a minimum. Avoid
use dented pipe and do not allow acute bending.
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Ensure that pipe-work is protected from physical damage.
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Comply with national gas regulations, state municipal rules and
legislation. Notify relevant authorities in accordance with all
applicable regulations.
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Ensure mechanical connections are accessible for maintenance
purposes.
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In cases that require mechanical ventilation, ventilation openings
shall be kept clear of obstructions.
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When disposing of the product, follow the precautions in recovery
section and comply with national regulations. Always contact
local municipal offices for proper handling.
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Interconnecting refrigerant pipework, i.e. pipework external to the
unitary components, should be marked with a Class label every
two metres where the pipework is visible. This includes pipework
located in a ceiling space or any void which a person may access
for maintenance or repair work within that space.
Servicing
Service personnel
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Any qualified person who is involved with working on or breaking
into a refrigerant circuit should hold a current valid certificate from
an industry-accredited assessment authority, which authorizes
their competence to handle refrigerants safely in accordance with
an industry recognized assessment specification.
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Servicing shall only be performed as recommended by the
equipment manufacturer. Maintenance and repair requiring the
assistance of other skilled personnel shall be carried out under
the supervision of persons competent in the use of flammable
refrigerants.
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Servicing shall be performed only as recommended by the
manufacturer.
Work
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Prior to beginning work on systems containing flammable
refrigerants, safety checks are necessary to ensure that the risk
of ignition is minimised. For repair to the refrigerating system,
the precautions must be followed before conducting work on the
system.
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Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure so as to
minimize the risk of a flammable gas or vapour being present
while the work is being performed.
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All maintenance staff and others working in the local area shall be
instructed and supervised on the nature of work being carried out.
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Avoid working in confined spaces.
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Wear appropriate protective equipment, including respiratory
protection, as conditions warrant.
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Ensure that the conditions within the area have been made safe by
limit of use of any flammable material. Keep all sources of ignition
and hot metal surfaces away.
Checking for presence of refrigerant
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The area shall be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector
prior to and during work, to ensure the technician is aware of
potentially flammable atmospheres.
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Ensure that the leak detection equipment being used is suitable
for use with flammable refrigerants, i.e. non sparking, adequately
sealed or intrinsically safe.
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In case of leakage/spillage, immediately ventilate area and stay
upwind and away from spill/release.
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In case of leakage/spillage, do notify persons downwind of the
leaking/spill, isolate immediate hazard area and keep unauthorized
personnel out.
Presence of fire extinguisher
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If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment
or any associated parts, appropriate fire extinguishing equipment
shall be available at hand.
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Have a dry powder or CO2 fire extinguisher adjacent to the
charging area.
No ignition sources
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No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system
which involves exposing any pipe work that contains or has
contained flammable refrigerant shall use any sources of ignition
in such a manner that it may lead to the risk of fire or explosion.
He/She must not be smoking when carrying out such work.
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All possible ignition sources, including cigarette smoking, should
be kept sufficiently far away from the site of installation, repairing,
removing and disposal, during which flammable refrigerant can
possibly be released to the surrounding space.
