Preparing a new refrigerant recovery tank for use, which typically involves vacuuming, begins with releasing any initial charge.
According to the provided reference, when these are brand new you got to let the nitrogen out. This is because nitrogen makes up about 80% of the air we breathe and is often used to pressurize new tanks for shipping or storage. Releasing this non-condensable gas is a critical first step before attempting to pull a vacuum on the tank, ensuring that the tank is empty and ready for refrigerant recovery without contamination from air or nitrogen.
While the specific steps for the vacuuming process itself involve connecting a vacuum pump and pulling the tank down to a desired micron level, the essential preliminary step for a new tank, as highlighted by the reference, is the initial purging of the nitrogen charge.
Here's a simplified overview of the initial preparation step for a new tank:
- Identify the Tank: Ensure you are working with a new, unused recovery tank.
- Locate Valves: Tanks typically have two valves, usually labeled "Vapor" and "Liquid".
- Release Nitrogen: Carefully open one of the valves (often the vapor valve first) to slowly release the nitrogen pressure. Perform this step in a well-ventilated area.
- Allow Pressure to Equalize: Let the tank pressure return to atmospheric pressure (0 PSIG).
Note: This step addresses the initial state of a new tank as mentioned in the reference. The subsequent vacuuming process requires connecting a vacuum pump and monitoring the pressure/micron level to ensure a deep vacuum is achieved.
Proper preparation, starting with releasing the initial nitrogen charge from a new tank, is vital for effective and safe refrigerant recovery.
