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Do not apply any permanent inductive or capacitance loads to the circuit
without ensuring that this will not exceed the permissible voltage and
current permitted for the equipment in use.
Intrinsically safe components are the only types that can be worked on
while live in the
presence of a flammable atmosphere. The test apparatus shall be at the
correct rating.
Replace components only with parts specified by the manufacturer. Other
parts may result in the ignition of refrigerant in the atmosphere from a leak.
Cabling
Check that cabling will not be subject to wear, corrosion, excessive pressure,
vibration, sharp edges or any other adverse environmental effects. The
check shall also take into account the effects of aging or continual vibration
from sources such as compressors or fans.
Detection of flammable refrigerants
Under no circumstances shall potential sources of ignition be used in the
searching for or detection of refrigerant leaks. A halide torch (or any other
detector using a naked flame) shall not be used.
Leak detection methods
The following leak detection methods are deemed acceptable for systems
containing flammable refrigerants.
Electronic leak detectors shall be used to detect flammable refrigerants, but
the sensitivity may not be adequate, or may need re-calibration. (Detection
equipment shall be calibrated in a refrigerant-free area.) Ensure that the
detector is not a potential source of ignition and is suitable for the
refrigerant used. Leak detection equipment shall be set at a percentage of
the LFL of the refrigerant and shall be calibrated to the refrigerant
employed and the appropriate percentage of gas (25 % maximum) is
confirmed.
Leak detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants but the use
of detergents containing chlorine shall be avoided as the chlorine may react
with the refrigerant and corrode the copper pipe-work.
If a leak is suspected, all naked flames shall be removed/extinguished.
If a leakage of refrigerant is found which requires brazing, all of the
EN
