Apparatus for detecting leaks in a pressurized air conditioning or refrigeration system

Abstract

An apparatus (22) and method for detecting leaks in a pressurized air conditioning or refrigeration system (24) comprising a cartridge (26) is described. A facility (28) is for fluidly coupling the cartridge (26) to the pressurized system (24). An assemblage (30) is for forcing a secondary fluid (32) out of the cartridge (26), through the fluidly coupling facility (28) and into a service valve (34) of the pressurized system (24). The cartridge (26) has a first open end with an inner nozzle (33) which connects to the system being charged and an outer nozzle (37).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the InventionThe instant invention relates generally to the field of pressurized fluid systems and more specifically it relates to an apparatus for detecting leaks in a pressurized air conditioning or refrigeration system. The purpose of the apparatus is to provide the technician with a simple method of injecting a predetermined amount of a secondary fluid, e.g., a fluorescent dye, and / or lubricant into a pressurized system.2. Description of the Prior ArtNumerous pressurized fluid systems have been provided in the prior art that are adapted to operate optimally within a certain pressure range. If the internal pressure falls below this range, the system needs to be recharged with an appropriate lubricant. While these units may be suitable for the particular purpose to which they address, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention as heretofore described.There does not presently exist a cost effective way to accomplis...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

In a more preferred embodiment, the tubular casing is fabricated out of transparent material and includes a plurality of gradient markings to aid in accurately dispensing a predetermined amount of the secondary fluid therefrom. In another embodiment, the canister further includes a threaded cap, to engage with the threaded nozzle when the canister is not in use, so as to prevent leakage of the secondary fluid through the threaded nozzle.

A still further object is to provide an apparatus for detecting leaks in a pressurized air conditioning or refrigeration system that is economical in cost to manufacture.

Problems solved by technology

There does not presently exist a cost effective way to accomplish the task of inserting a predetermined amount of lubricant into a pressurized system.

Added to this, is the fact that when a technician arrives on site they are faced with a myriad number of systems with service connection access ranging from the accessible to the acrobatic and often cramped working conditions.

Furthermore, air conditioning or refrigeration system leaks are difficult to locate because refrigerants are generally odorless and colorless gases.

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