Flake Ice Machines | Refrigeration System |
Method of Charging Refrigerant
In order to achieve a properly charged refrigeration system, the system must be completely evacuated.
To achieve a complete evacuation you will need a service gauge manifold with properly maintained hoses, and a vacuum pump capable of pulling a
Connect the service gauge manifold to the high and low side service ports and vacuum pump. Make sure the valves on the gauge manifold are closed, then start the pump.
Note: Do not use a refrigeration compressor as a vacuum pump. Compressors are able to pull only a
After the vacuum pump has been started, open the valves on the gauge manifold. This will allow the refrigeration system to start being evacuated.
If there has not been an excessive amount of moisture in the system, allow the vacuum pump to pull the system down to about 200 microns or 29.9 inches or less. Once this has been achieved, allow the vacuum pump to operate for another 30 minutes. Then close the valves on the gauge manifold and stop the vacuum pump. Then watch your gauges. A rise to 500 microns in three (3) minutes or less indicates a dry system under a good vacuum.
If your gauge registers a more rapid rise, the system either has moisture remaining or there is a leak in the system, requiring a check for the leak, and repair and another complete evacuation.
Note: Seal the ends of the gauge manifold hose and pull them into a deep vacuum to determine if the leak is not in the hoses. The gauge manifold should be able to hold the vacuum for three (3) minutes.
If the refrigeration system is extremely wet, use radiant heat to raise the temperature of the system. This action will cause the moisture to vaporize at less of a vacuum.
The use of two (2) valves, one between the vacuum pump and gauge manifold and the other between the refrigerant cylinder and the gauge manifold allows you to evacuate and charge the system without disconnecting any hoses. If the hoses were disconnected, air or moisture will have the opportunity to enter the hoses and then the system.
A properly charged icemaker is a service technician’s greatest ally. Proper charging will allow any concern with the icemaker to be accurately diagnosed.
The refrigerant charge must be weighed into the icemaker either by using a charging scale or with a
The amount of proper refrigerant required for the icemaker is printed on the serial data plate attached to the icemaker and is listed on the following pages. Never vary the amounts from those listed.
