Why Start an Analysis Program
By establishing an analysis program for refrigeration equipment, the facility or service
company can:
- Avoid costly repairs
- Schedule repairs to reduce downtime
- Eliminate the premature changing of oil and refrigerant
- Reduce the problems associated with disposing of used oils and refrigerants
- Decrease maintenance costs
- Increase operating efficiency
- Extend operation life
Steps in Establishing an Analysis Program
- Sampling at required intervals using proper techniques and procedures is very important. The sampling interval will be recommended by a Trane analyst based on:
- The type of equipment
- Application
- Operating frequency, duration and environment
- Results of previous analyses
- Accurate, timely analysis of each sample. The Trane lab will have your results back to you in three days or less.
- Qualified interpretation of the data, related to the unit's operation and maintenance history.
- Reliable and prompt feedback of all data including chronological comparison of previous samples and specific preventive maintenance recommended. Only through a knowledgeable lab in each of these four areas can an effective sampling and analysis program be instituted. The information and recommendations are best determined with the assistance provided by a qualified service engineer. The Trane Chemical Lab has proved its ability in these areas.
Sampling
Samples should be taken by qualified, trained service engineers at scheduled intervals. The sample being analyzed must be representative of the system. Collection should be carried out in a way that insures the sample will not become contaminated. These steps cannot be overemphasized, because interpretation of the results of the laboratory analysis can only be as valid as the sample provided. In addition to withdrawing the physical sample, the service engineer provides data identifying the particular machine, the number of operating hours on the sample, and the reason for the analysis. The service engineer also provides necessary information and data covering knowledge of previous maintenance problems, present machine operating conditions, and current maintenance, which is being performed on the machine.
For further information on the Trane Chemical Laboratory analysis service, please contact your nearest Trane Office.