Refrigerant Scale and Recovery Machine
The equipment that makes recovery and accurate charging possible.
Tool
Technician
#tools#refrigeration#recovery#chargingSafety
Never fill a recovery cylinder beyond 80 percent by weight, never mix refrigerants, and use only cylinders within their test date.
What it is
A recovery machine pumps refrigerant out of a system into a cylinder. A refrigerant scale weighs the cylinder so you know exactly how much came out and exactly how much goes back in. Weighing is the most accurate charging method available in the field.
Working practice
- Use an inlet filter drier on the recovery machine and change it regularly, especially after a burnout.
- Keep hoses short and large in diameter. Recovery speed is dominated by restriction.
- Recover liquid first where the machine supports it, then vapour.
- Keep the recovery cylinder cool, since a warm cylinder raises pressure and slows or stops the machine.
- Weigh continuously and never exceed 80 percent of the cylinder water capacity.
- Self clear the machine after every use so refrigerant is not left inside it.
- Calibrate or verify the scale periodically with a known weight.
Cylinder discipline
Use only cylinders rated for recovery and within their test date. Dedicate cylinders to a single refrigerant, label them clearly, and never mix. An overfilled cylinder can rupture as its contents warm.
Related equipment
- Digital manifold
- Vacuum pump and micron gauge
- Approved recovery cylinders
- Inlet filter driers
Local Code Notice
Recovery equipment requirements, cylinder testing intervals and certification vary by jurisdiction and regulations in force.
Practice & Mastery
- Refrigerant Scale and Recovery Machine Troubleshooting Scenarios2
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