Leak Check and Evacuation) Speeding Up Evacuation

 

1. Increasing Pumping Capacity

• Larger Hoses:

  • Using larger hoses significantly increases the pumping capacity of your vacuum pump.
  • Example: A 5 CFM vacuum pump with a 3/8 hose has almost four times the capacity of a pump with a quarter-inch hose.

• Capacity Comparison:

  • Quarter-Inch Hose: 0.29 cubic feet of fluid.
  • 3/8 Hose: Over 1 CFM (3.8 times more capacity).

• Time Efficiency:

  • A 5 CFM pump with a quarter-inch hose takes 43 minutes to evacuate a system volume of 5 cubic feet.
  • The same pump with a 3/8 hose reduces the time to 16 minutes.

2. Using Appropriate Tools

• Manifold Gauge Set:

  • Use a manifold gauge set with larger hoses for vacuuming.
  • Pull through two quarter-inch hoses into the manifold, then use a large hose for the vacuum port.

• Vacuum-Specific Hoses:

  • Manufacturers recommend hoses specifically designed for vacuuming, usually black in color or metal braided.
  • Braided Stainless Steel Hoses: Highly reliable but may leak at the ends.
  • Black Vacuum Hoses: Reliable and trusted in the field.

3. Removing Schrader Valves

• Restriction Removal:

  • Schrader valves provide a restriction and slow down the evacuation process.
  • Remove Schrader valves to utilize the full capacity of the opening for fluid movement.

• Valve Core Removal Tool:

  • Necessary for removing and replacing Schrader valves without losing refrigerant.
  • Allows you to valve off the system while it is under pressure.

4. Practical Example: Using the Valve Core Removal Tool

• Tool Components:

  • Valve Off Position: Isolate the system while removing or installing Schrader valves.
  • Quarter-Inch Flare Connection: Hook up hoses to the back of the tool.
  • Side Port: Connect your micron gauge.

• Procedure:

  • Remove the valve core using the tool.
  • Valve off the system.
  • Connect hoses and micron gauge.
  • After evacuation, reassemble and install the Schrader valve without losing refrigerant.