Refrigerant quality analysis launches in New Zealand

Preventing potential issues and costly repairs, this new refrigerant and oil quality analysis kit is a first for the New Zealand HVAC&R sector.

“With the opening of the first refrigerant testing laboratory at the A-Gas site in New Zealand last month, we’re pleased that contractors, servicing companies and system owners now have access to our full analytical services through the launch of the REFRIG HEAL+H CHECK kit,” says Mitch Williamson, country manager for A-Gas New Zealand.

An important analytical tool designed to provide a complete understanding of the quality of refrigerant and oil running through a system, the A-Gas REFRIG HEAL+H CHECK kit allows for proactive diagnosis of potential issues for system owners. It assists contractors to understand a baseline for future work to be carried out.

After using the kit, refrigerant samples are thoroughly tested and analysed by qualified technicians at the new A-Gas laboratory in Auckland.

Samples collected are tested for:

• Vapour: non-condensable gases

• Refrigerant: purity, composition, moisture, boiling residue, acidity, chloride and particulates

• Oil: viscosity, moisture, acidity, particulates and wear metals

The analysis results are presented in a detailed report showing the quality of samples against the globally recognised AHRI Standard 700 specifications, and the report is accompanied by commentary to assist in the remediation of any problems identified.

By developing this kit, A-Gas hopes to assist the industry in preventing system damage and avoiding costly repairs; reducing maintenance costs by regularly monitoring fluids; improving energy efficiency by rectifying issues associated with compromised fluids; maximising equipment operating lifespan; establishing a baseline quality of refrigerant to inform future work; identifying opportunities for preventative maintenance.

The kit contains everything the customer needs to request testing and is available from leading wholesalers across New Zealand, www.agas.co.nz/