Section 7 | Refrigeration System |
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SYSTEM CONTAMINATION CLEAN-UP
General
This section describes the basic requirements for restoring contaminated systems to reliable service.
Important
Manitowoc Ice, Inc. assumes no responsibility for the use of contaminated refrigerant. Damage resulting from the use of contaminated refrigerant is the sole responsibility of the servicing company.
Determining Severity Of Contamination
System contamination is generally caused by either moisture or residue from compressor burnout entering the refrigeration system.
Inspection of the refrigerant usually provides the first indication of system contamination. Obvious moisture or an acrid odor in the refrigerant indicates contamination.
If either condition is found, or if contamination is suspected, use a Total Test Kit from Totaline or a similar diagnostic tool. These devices sample refrigerant, eliminating the need to take an oil sample. Follow the manufacturer’s directions.
If a refrigerant test kit indicates harmful levels of contamination, or if a test kit is not available, inspect the compressor oil.
1.Remove the refrigerant charge from the ice machine.
2.Remove the compressor from the system.
3.Check the odor and appearance of the oil.
4.Inspect open suction and discharge lines at the compressor for burnout deposits.
5.If no signs of contamination are present, perform an acid oil test.
Check the chart below to determine the type of cleanup required.
Contamination/Cleanup Chart | ||
Symptoms/Findings | Required Cleanup Procedure | |
No symptoms or suspicion of contamination | Normal evacuation/recharging procedure | |
Moisture/Air Contamination symptoms |
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Refrigeration system open to atmosphere for longer than 15 |
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minutes | Mild contamination cleanup procedure | |
Refrigeration test kit and/or acid oil test shows contamination | ||
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Leak in |
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No burnout deposits in open compressor lines |
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Mild Compressor Burnout symptoms |
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Oil appears clean but smells acrid | Mild contamination cleanup procedure | |
Refrigeration test kit or acid oil test shows harmful acid content | ||
No burnout deposits in open compressor lines |
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Severe Compressor Burnout symptoms |
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Oil is discolored, acidic, and smells acrid | Severe contamination cleanup procedure | |
Burnout deposits found in the compressor and lines, and in | ||
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other components |
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Part Number |