3.2.1.4
System Charging and Startup Test
Following satisfactory completion of the evacuation tests, the system shall
be charged with the required amount of refrigerant by raising pressure to
normal operating pressure, and in accordance with manufacturer's
procedures. Following charging, the system shall operate with high-side
and low-side pressures and corresponding refrigerant temperatures, at
design or improved values. The entire system shall be tested for leaks.
Fluorocarbon systems shall be tested with halide torch or electronic leak
detectors. Ammonia systems shall be tested with sulphur tapers. When
charging and testing with ammonia under pressure, gas masks shall be
provided.
3.2.1.5
Refrigerant Leakage
If a refrigerant leak is discovered after the system has been charged, the
leaking portion of the system shall immediately be isolated from the
remainder of the system and the refrigerant pumped into the system receiver
or other suitable container. The refrigerant shall not be discharged into
the atmosphere.
3.2.1.6
Contractor's Responsibility
The Contractor shall, at all times during the installation and testing of
the refrigeration system, take steps to prevent the release of refrigerants
into the atmosphere. The steps shall include, but not be limited to,
procedures which will minimize the release of refrigerants to the
atmosphere and the use of refrigerant recovery devices to remove
refrigerant from the system and store the refrigerant for reuse or reclaim.
No more than 85 grams 3 ounces of refrigerant shall be released to the
atmosphere in any one occurrence. System leaks within the first year shall
be repaired in accordance with the requirements herein at no cost to the
Government, including material, labor, and refrigerant, if the leak is the
result of defective equipment, material, or installation.
3.2.2
System Performance
After the foregoing tests have been completed and before each refrigeration
system is accepted, tests to demonstrate the general operating
characteristics of all equipment shall be conducted by a registered
professional engineer or an approved manufacturer's startup representative
experienced in system startup and testing, at such times as directed.
Tests shall cover a period of not less than [_____] days for each system
and demonstrate that the entire system is functioning in accordance with
the drawings and specifications. Corrections and adjustments shall be made
as necessary and tests shall be re-conducted to demonstrate that the entire
system is functioning as specified. Any refrigerant lost during the system
startup shall be replaced. During the system performance tests, a report
shall be maintained to document compliance with the specified performance
criteria upon completion and testing of the system. The report shall
include the following information at a minimum and shall be taken at least
three different times at outside dry-bulb temperatures that are at least 3
degrees C 5 degrees F apart:
a. Date and outside weather conditions.
b. The load on the system based on the following:
(1) The refrigerant used in the system.
(2) Condensing temperature and pressure.
SECTION 15652A
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