Recovering and Recycling the Refrigerant
Figure 9-1 shows a recovery/recycle machine. Recycle equipment must meet
certain standards as published by the Society of Automotive Engineers and
carry a UL approved label. The basic principles of operation remain the same
for all machines, even if the details of operation differ somewhat.
Recycle station.
A full system recovery is not necessary when you service or replace a
compressor with stem type service valves. These valves may be front seated to
isolate the rest of the AC system from the compressor. The refrigerant stays in
the system and only the refrigerant in the compressor is recovered, recycled
and replaced.
Keep the collection cylinder in an upright position for
Note:
the duration of the recovery/recycle cycle to ensure no
liquid is drawn back into the system.
Draining the Oil from the Previous Recovery Cycle
In preparation for recovery, do the following:
1. Place the power switch and the controller on the recovery unit
in the OFF position.
2. Plug in the recovery station to the correct power source.
3. Drain the recovered oil through valve marked OIL DRAIN on the
front of the machine.
4. Place the controller knob in the ON position. The low pressure gauge
will show a rise.
5. Immediately switch to the OFF position and allow the pressure to
stabilize. If the pressure does not rise to between 5 psig and 10 psig,
switch the controller ON and OFF again. With practice, this procedure
should become easier.
9-3
