Electronic Leak Detection
Infrared detectors operate differently than heated sensor type detectors. They detect changes in concentration of refrigerant rather than absolute concentration. If the tip is held at a detected leak for more than 5 seconds the detector will saturate and zero to that concentration and will no longer detect leaks at that concentration or less. Move tip away from the leak saturation area for 30 seconds to reset the sensitivity of the detector.
Adequate system pressure is required for effective leak detection.
- If system is empty install 10% of system charge.
- Temperature must be above 60 F.
Do not use:
- Soap solutions (not effective for leak detection)
- Shop air (will introduce contamination to the refrigerant system)
- High pressure gasses i.e nitrogen (May cause system damage
Air movement from the engine cooling fan can affect the detectors ability to detect leaks. Always leak test with engine off and if possible after engine has reached normal operating temperature.
- All fittings and components should be checked.
- Take care not to contaminate the probe tip if the part being tested is contaminated.
- No cleaners containing solvents should be used prior to using electronic leak detector.
- Always follow the refrigerant system around in a continuous path so that no areas of potential leaks are missed. Move the tip along the refrigerant system at a rate of no more than 3 inches per second and a distance of 3/8 inch from the surface being tested. If a leak is found, always continue to test the remainder of the system.
Follow the instructions supplied with the GE-50078 detector.