Made in America Since 1972.

Language

Macurco Gas Detection

Refrigerants

Gas safety in chiller rooms centers around refrigerant leaks, which can pose health, fire, and environmental risks.

Chiller systems are essential in commercial and industrial settings for temperature control, with refrigerant choice affecting efficiency and environmental impact. These systems use chemicals or gases to remove heat, cooling water or air through chillers, condensers, and air conditioners. Gas detection systems in chiller rooms are critical for safety, monitoring refrigerant leaks that could harm personnel and the environment. Early detection through sensors ensures quick responses, maintaining safe operations and reducing hazards.

Why Install A Gas Detection System?

Safety Measures

Safety measures are essential when working with refrigerants because many can be harmful if not handled properly. Some refrigerants are toxic and can be deadly if inhaled, while others are flammable, posing fire or explosion risks. They are also often stored under high pressure, which can be dangerous if the system fails. Additionally, some refrigerants can displace oxygen, leading to asphyxiation in confined spaces. Proper ventilation, leak detection, and safety features help reduce these risks and ensure a safe environment around refrigeration systems.

Regulations

There are several important regulations and codes that govern the use, handling, and management of refrigerant gases, mainly to ensure environmental safety, worker safety, and proper equipment operation. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) develops several standards that relate to refrigerants, including ASHRAE 34, which establishes the safety classification for refrigerants based on flammability and toxicity. ASHRAE 15 provides the safety standard for refrigeration systems, addressing installation, maintenance, and emergency response measures.

Costs

Gas detection systems for refrigerants help save money by detecting leaks early, preventing costly repairs and refrigerant loss. They improve energy efficiency by stopping leaks that force systems to work harder, reducing energy bills. These systems also ensure compliance with regulations, avoiding fines, and help extend equipment life by preventing major damage. By reducing downtime and enabling predictive maintenance, businesses can avoid expensive repairs and keep operations running smoothly.

Common Applications

Regulations/Codes

ASHRAE 15 – Provides safety guidelines for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of refrigeration systems, aiming to minimize risks related to refrigerants, particularly in commercial, industrial, and food processing environments. Key aspects include refrigerant selection, leak prevention, ventilation, leak detection, alarms, emergency procedures, signage, and regular maintenance and training. More Info
ASHRAE 34 – classifies refrigerants based on chemical properties, safety, and environmental impact. It assigns a unique code for each refrigerant, including a safety classification for toxicity and flammability. This standard helps ensure the safe use of refrigerants, industry compliance, and the protection of human health and the environment. More Info
International Mechanical Code (IMC) Chapter 11 – Chapter 11 of the International Mechanical Code (IMC) focuses on Refrigeration systems. It provides regulations for the safe design, installation, operation, and maintenance of refrigeration systems. More Info

Internation Fire Code (IFC) Chapter 6 – Chapter 6 of the International Fire Code (IFC) focuses on requirements related to refrigerant detection systems and their safe use. More Info

Refrigerant Product Options

AireShield Polar Series – The Macurco AireShield – Polar Series refrigerant product family is a complete product line with tremendous flexibility for detecting various refrigerants. The NDIR sensor technology with temperature compensation allows for the best accuracy while minimizing false alarms. Regardless of the application, this versatile detector exceeds code and compliance while delivering easy installation, maintenance, and commissioning through smart sensor technology, providing an array of events back to the user. This long-life detector will ensure your application is running safely at all times.

 

VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) – The Macurco RD-VRF Refrigerant Gas Detector is designed to provide continuous refrigerant monitoring in VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) applications. Depending on the type of refrigerant, a leak in refrigerant gas could develop an oxygen-depleting environment that may lead to asphyxiation, or combustible refrigerant may lead to an explosion. The RD-VRF Refrigerant Gas Detector comes standard with two alarm levels providing advanced warning via low detection alarming and notification locally or via a Building Management System (BMS).

AireShield Mounting Heights

Safety First

At Macurco Gas Detection, safety is our top priority when working with refrigerants, and following proper gas detection protocols is essential. Utilizing dependable, high-quality gas detection systems that provide real-time monitoring of refrigerant levels and promptly identify leaks is critical. Ensuring regular calibration and maintenance of these systems is necessary for optimal performance. Additionally, consistent inspection and upkeep of refrigeration equipment help prevent leaks from arising. By implementing these best practices, businesses can greatly reduce the risks associated with refrigerant management and safeguard both their personnel and operations.

Refrigerants

Suggested Gas Detectors, Control Panels & Accessories

Common Applications