Refrigerant Leak Detectors
Refrigerant leak detectors can detect only chlorinated refrigerants. These leak detectors are used to find, detect, and repair leaks of HCFCs, HFCs, Freon, and ammonia, all of which can be extremely hazardous to the environment. Refrigerant leak detectors contain a halide torch that uses a flame to detect refrigerants. If halogenated refrigerant vapors are present, the flame changes from blue to a blue-green color.
A refrigerant leak is very difficult to detect. It could be in hundreds of feet of tubing, in an operating or safety control or in an inaccessible area. The proper test equipment and the method of leak detection are very important factors when attempting to find a leak. Refrigerant leak detectors can be used to monitor joints, valves, pipes, and other parts used in air-conditioning and refrigeration systems in commercial buildings. These detectors can be stand-alone or alternately integrated into other sensor networks or leak detection systems.
There are many methods used in refrigerant leak detection including bubble test, water immersion test, dye interception method, halide torch, electronic leak detectors, isolation of the sealed system, and ultrasonic leak detection. The bubble test is used when the approximate area of the leaks location is known. During the water immersion test, on the other hand, the system is submerged into a tank of water. In the dye interception method, a dye is inserted into the system. Usually the quickest way to find a leak is by using the electronic leak detector method. However, the best method of refrigerant leak detection depends primarily on the application.