Method and apparatus for testing a non-hydrocarbon refrigerant
US5846833A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 17, 1997 |
| Grant date | Dec 8, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 17, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/21
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for testing a non-hydrocarbon refrigerant, such as CFC-12 or HFC-134a, in a closed system for hydrocarbons, HCFC-22 refrigerant and ammonia is provided wherein a sample of the non-hydrocarbon refrigerant is withdrawn from the closed system, the pressure of the sample is measured and a metered portion of the sample is passed through a test apparatus (20) including a testing tube (30), a testing tube holder (40) for supporting the testing tube (30) and outfitted with a vent (48) to the atmosphere, and a pressure gauge (70) for indicating the pressure of the sample withdrawn. A medium (38) for indicating the presence of hydrocarbons in the sample flow passing through the testing tube is deposited on a surface disposed in the testing tube. The presence of undesired HCFC-22 refrigerant in the CFC-12 or HFC-134a is indicated by a higher pressure reading on the pressure gauge (70). Finally, the presence of ammonia is sensed by its characteristic pungent odor as the refrigerant sample flow is vented to the atmosphere.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.