ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-1994, Safety Code For Mechanical Refrigeration
An Emergency Interim Standards Action was taken by the ASHRAE President. The changes shown below for ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-1994, Safety Code for Mechanical Refrigeration, will be effective immediately. This change was included in proposed addendum a. The public review for proposed addendum a closed October 14, 1997.
Revise ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-1994 as shown below:
10.1.2 Testing Procedure. A suitable dry gas such as nitrogen or air shall be used for pressure testing. The means used to build up the test pressure shall have either a pressure-limiting device or a pressure-reducing device with a pressure-relief device and a gage on the outlet side. The pressure-relief device shall be set above the test pressure but low enough to prevent permanent deformation of the system components. Tests shall be performed with dry nitrogen or another nonflammable, nonreactive, dried gas. Addition of up to 5% refrigerant by weight (by mass) is allowed to facilitate location of leaks. Oxygen, air, and mixtures containing them shall not be used.
Exception: Use of compressed air is allowed to test R-717, R-718, and R-744 systems provided that they are subsequently evacuated before charging with refrigerant.