In commercial HVAC management, a minor refrigerant leak in an Air Handling Unit (AHU) isn't just a mechanical hiccup—it’s a direct hit to the bottom line. Our latest field update tracks a specialized team performing a high-pressure diagnostic and repair on a large-scale system.
To ensure the integrity of the copper coils and refrigerant lines, the system is isolated and pressurized using a nitrogen cylinder.
Pressure Range: 300 to 350 PSI.
Objective: Unlike refrigerant, nitrogen is stable and safe for high-pressure testing, allowing technicians to stress-test joints without environmental risk.
While electronic leak detectors are common, our technicians rely on the proven accuracy of soap solution testing. By applying a specialized spray to copper joints and the Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV), the team can visually confirm leaks.
Technical Note: If bubbles form, the seal is compromised. Even a microscopic pinhole under 350 PSI can lead to significant refrigerant loss over time.
Once the panels are removed and the blower and coils are exposed, the repair begins:
Brazing: Technicians weld leaking copper joints to create a permanent, high-strength seal.
Component Integrity: If the TXV shows signs of mechanical failure or internal leaking, it is replaced entirely to restore proper refrigerant flow.
By identifying these vulnerabilities before recharging the system, we ensure the AHU operates at maximum efficiency. This proactive approach prevents costly emergency shutdowns and extends the lifespan of the commercial cooling infrastructure.
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