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Refrigeration System
Leak Detection
R-134a system leaks can be pinpointed by means of an
electronic leak detector or by bubble solution.
Electronic leak detectors for R-134a service are
currently available from several manufacturers. The
least expensive models are non-selective detectors that
will detect any type of emission or vapor present,
regardless of its chemical composition. Some
non-selective detectors designed for use with R-12 may
have a much lower sensitivity when used with R-134a.
However, newly designed detectors with good R-134a
sensitivity are now available. Be sure to consult with
the manufacturer before selecting or using a
non-selective detector with R-134a.
Halogen-specific detectors use a specialized sensor that
allows detection of compounds containing chlorine,
fluorine, bromine, and iodine without being activated by
other species. The major advantage of this type of
detector is a reduction in the number of “nuisance
alarms”. Halogen-specific detectors are generally more
expensive than non-selective detectors but feature
higher sensitivity.
R-134a properties
The properties of R-134a are very similar to those of
R12. The principal data for the two refrigerants are
shown in the chart below.