Tubing, Piping, Brazing and Soldering
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of fire caulking?

  • To repair damaged walls and ceilings
  • To enhance aesthetic appeal
  • To insulate piping from temperature changes
  • To seal seams and gaps in fire-resistant structures (correct)

Which tool type is NOT associated with the swaging process?

  • Lever type
  • Punch type
  • Circular type (correct)
  • Screw type

How often should horizontal tubing larger than ¾” be supported?

  • Every 5-7 feet
  • Every 6-10 feet (correct)
  • Every 8-10 feet
  • Every 4-6 feet

What is the first step in preparing tubing for compression fittings?

<p>Remove burrs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of fire caulking when exposed to heat?

<p>It expands (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of copper tubing is not intended to be bent without a specific process?

<p>Hard drawn tubing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What material is generally not used for carrying refrigerant?

<p>Plastic piping (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of copper tubing is most commonly used in refrigeration systems?

<p>Type L (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of flowing nitrogen in the tubing while brazing?

<p>To prevent oxidization by removing oxygen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be done to hard drawn tubing to allow it to be bent?

<p>It must be annealed (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which gas is NOT typically used in soldering?

<p>Oxy-acetylene (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of using caps when storing tubing and piping?

<p>To prevent contaminants from entering (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the first steps to take before soldering or brazing?

<p>Clean all surfaces to be joined (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about line sets is correct?

<p>They may be charged with refrigerant or nitrogen. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates ACR tubing from nominal tubing?

<p>ACR is sized by outside diameter, while nominal is sized by inside diameter. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario is silver solder used?

<p>When joining dissimilar metals (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What safety equipment is recommended while soldering or brazing?

<p>Protective gloves and safety glasses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if the flare is removed?

<p>Redo the flare due to work hardening (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What temperature does an oxy-acetylene torch reach?

<p>5600°F (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using Nylog as a sealant?

<p>It is safe if any gets into the system (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of insulation used on a suction line?

<p>To prevent heat transfer from the cold gas to surrounding air (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done after cutting tubing to ensure proper refrigerant flow?

<p>Ream out any burrs from the inside (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of soldering filler material is used for moderate pressures but should not be used on water lines?

<p>50/50 (50% tin, 50% lead) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the melting point range for soldering filler materials?

<p>361F - 500F (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is bending tubing considered beneficial in installation?

<p>It prevents contamination from poor brazing practices. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of bender is NOT commonly used for bending copper tubing?

<p>Hydraulic type (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens if too much adhesive is applied when installing insulation?

<p>The insulation may not bond properly. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done first when preparing to make a final braze connection?

<p>Make sure the tubing is clean. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plastic pipe is suitable for both hot and cold-water supplies?

<p>CPVC (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required to join ABS plastic pipe to a metal pipe?

<p>Transition fitting (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plastic pipe is NOT used with a hot water supply?

<p>PE (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What process should be done after cutting a plastic pipe before joining it?

<p>Deburr the pipe (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of PVC when used for applications?

<p>It has high impact strength at low temperatures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plastic pipe is specifically used for irrigation systems?

<p>PE (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate method to apply when joining PVC pipe to fittings?

<p>Use solvent cement (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of joint procedure typically involves turning the pipe after applying cement?

<p>Plastic joining (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which step should be performed after cutting the tubing to ensure a clean surface before flaring?

<p>Ream to remove all burrs and clean all residue (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using refrigerant oil during the flaring process?

<p>To provide lubrication to prevent hardening of the flare (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What positioning should the tube be in when clamped in the flaring block?

<p>Slightly above the block, about one-third its height (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if defects are found in the flare after inspection?

<p>Cut off the flare and start over (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to tighten and loosen the screw several times during the flaring process?

<p>To prevent the work from hardening (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of eye protection is recommended while brazing?

<p>Safety glasses or shield (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an appropriate way to ignite a torch for brazing?

<p>Using a striker (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the guideline 'A before O, or up you go' imply in brazing safety?

<p>Assess risks before operating (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for safety during brazing?

<p>Flame resistant clothing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step to ensure safety when starting brazing work?

<p>Check the equipment for loose parts (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct order of operations when igniting an oxy-acetylene torch?

<p>Ignite acetylene, then introduce oxygen (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to keep acetylene and oxygen cylinders in an upright position?

<p>To prevent gas leakage (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be adjusted to achieve the desired flame after igniting the torch?

<p>The ratio of acetylene to oxygen (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What safety consideration should be taken while using an oxy-acetylene torch?

<p>Keep flammable materials away from the working area (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary gas used to ignite the oxy-acetylene torch?

<p>Acetylene (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What color should the flame be during soldering or brazing?

<p>Blue (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal behavior of the flame when soldering or brazing?

<p>Surrounding the joint only (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to the joints and parts before brazing?

<p>Thoroughly clean them (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided after cleaning the area to be brazed?

<p>Touching the cleaned area (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the flame during soldering is correct?

<p>It should be blue and not lifting (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of inspecting gas regulators regularly?

<p>To check for any damage or wear (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should gas hoses be replaced annually?

<p>To avoid potential leaks due to wear or damage (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action is essential for maintaining gas hoses?

<p>Inspecting them for any cracks or wear (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor primarily influences the decision to replace gas hoses?

<p>Signs of wear or damage (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be regularly checked to ensure safe gas pressure control?

<p>The functioning of the regulators (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a necessary precaution when transporting assemblies in a vehicle?

<p>Keep the assemblies secured to prevent falling. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper way to store acetylene and oxygen cylinders?

<p>Secured in an upright position. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition can empty gas cylinders be stored at the work site overnight?

<p>Only when necessary. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does proper cylinder storage help prevent?

<p>Accidental fires and explosions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason not to store full acetylene and oxygen cylinders in a vehicle?

<p>Cylinders could leak due to temperature changes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial step to prevent contamination during the brazing process?

<p>Ensure cleaning materials and dirt do not enter the tubing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is essential when selecting a brazing rod for the job?

<p>The correct brazing rod and temperature. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Minimizing the use of which material can enhance the quality of a brazed joint?

<p>Brazing rod. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of using excessive brazing rod during soldering?

<p>It can lead to contamination of the joint. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when brazing fittings and parts?

<p>Prevent cleaning materials from entering the tubing. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of pipe hangers in a piping system?

<p>To keep pipes steady and prevent sagging or bending (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of pipe hanger is specifically designed for flexibility and adjustment?

<p>Strut Hangers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What material is commonly used for pipe hangers to provide corrosion resistance?

<p>Stainless Steel (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of hanger would be most suitable for securing multiple heavy pipes?

<p>Trapeze Hangers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific function do insulated hangers serve in a piping system?

<p>Prevent pipe damage from vibration and minimize heat transfer (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario are Cushing clamps most appropriately used?

<p>For smaller pipe systems requiring a secure fit (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary safety function of pipe hangers?

<p>Preventing pipes from moving to avoid leaks or structural damage (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of hanger is specifically meant for PVC tubing?

<p>PVC Clamps (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Annealing

The process of heating copper tubing and then bending it, making it more pliable.

Soft Drawn Tubing

Copper tubing that comes in rolls and is flexible enough to be bent.

Hard Drawn Tubing

Copper tubing that comes in straight lengths and is not intended to be bent.

Type K Tubing

The thickest and most durable type of copper tubing, often used in heavy-duty applications.

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Type L Tubing

The most commonly used type of copper tubing, providing a balance between strength and flexibility.

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ACR Tubing

Tubing sized based on its outside diameter (O.D).

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Nominal Tubing

Tubing sized based on its inside diameter (I.D).

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Line Sets

Pre-assembled bundles of tubing, typically insulated for liquid and suction lines, and may be pre-charged with refrigerant or nitrogen.

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Purpose of insulation

Insulation prevents the suction line from gaining heat, keeping the refrigerant cool and preventing condensation. It's usually applied on the low side of the system.

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Insulation procedures

It's best to install insulation before making final braze connections. Only the ends need glue, and too much glue can weaken the bond.

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Reaming

A burr is a sharp edge left after cutting tubing. This is removed with a reamer to ensure smooth refrigerant flow.

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Bending tubing

Bending tubing can help save space while minimizing future leaks. This is done with various tools like spring, lever, or ratchet benders.

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Soldering

Soldering is a process that uses a filler material that melts at a lower temperature, typically used in plumbing and heating systems.

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Brazing

Brazing is a process using filler materials with a higher melting point than soldering, used for more robust connections.

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ACR Tubing Size

A type of metal tubing sized based on its outer diameter (O.D.).

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Soldering and Brazing

Used to join metal pieces together, using a filler material with a lower melting point than the base metals. This filler material melts and flows between the joined surfaces, creating a strong bond.

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Nitrogen Flowing

A gas used to remove oxygen from the inside of tubing during brazing. The removal of oxygen prevents oxidation, which can cause damage and blockages in the system.

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Nylog Sealant

A type of sealant used in threading connections for refrigeration systems. It's formulated to be safe for use with refrigerants.

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Flaring

A process of shaping the end of a copper tube to create a flared opening for a flare nut connection.

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Flare Nuts

A type of nut used to secure flared copper tubing in refrigeration systems. These nuts are designed to be tightened to specific torque specifications.

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Swaging

A process that joins two pieces of tubing of the same size using brazing or soldering. It involves expanding one tube into the other, creating a secure connection.

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Supporting Tubing

Preventing damage and leaks from vibrations by supporting tubing at specific intervals based on tubing size and orientation.

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Compression Fittings (RLS)

A step-by-step process for joining fittings to tubing. Involves preparing the tubing, measuring insertion depth, marking, inserting the fitting, aligning jaws, flaring, and inspecting the joint.

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Fire Caulking

A type of sealant used to fill gaps and openings in fire-resistant walls, floors, ceilings, and around fire-rated doors. Fire caulking enhances fire safety by slowing or preventing the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases.

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Fire Stop Sealants

A sealant applied to floors and walls around penetrations of piping, tubing, and electrical. It expands when heated, filling gaps and sealing against fire.

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ABS Pipe

A rigid plastic pipe used for drainage, waste and venting. It withstands heat up to 180°F without pressure. Joined using a solvent cement.

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PE Pipe

A flexible plastic pipe used for water, gas and irrigation. It can handle some heat without pressure. Joined using hose clamps.

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PVC Pipe

Rigid plastic pipe used in high-pressure applications at low temperatures. It's commonly used for water, gas and sewage. Joined using solvent cement or threaded fittings.

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CPVC Pipe

Similar to PVC, but withstands higher temperatures (up to 180°F) and pressure. Used for hot and cold water supplies. Joined using solvent cement.

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Deburring

The process of removing any sharp edges (burrs) from a pipe after cutting. It ensures smooth flow and helps prevent clogs.

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Solvent Cement

A special type of glue used to bond plastic pipes and fittings. It creates a strong, leak-proof joint.

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Primer

A liquid applied to the pipe surface before cement. It helps the cement bond more effectively.

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Full Insertion and Rotation

To properly join plastic pipes and fittings, it is essential to fully insert the pipe into the fitting and rotate approximately one-quarter turn to ensure a strong and secure connection.

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Tightening Flare Nuts

Tightening the flare nut down to the recommended torque specification based on the manufacturer's instructions.

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Inspecting the Flare

Inspecting the flared end for defects (like cracks or unevenness) after removing the tubing from the flaring block. If found, cut off the flare and start again.

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Igniting an Oxy-Acetylene Torch

Igniting an oxy-acetylene torch using acetylene gas, followed by gradual introduction of oxygen until the flame reaches the desired intensity.

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Storing Gas Cylinders

Always store acetylene and oxygen cylinders in an upright position to prevent leaks and potential hazards.

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Cylinder Safety

Securely fasten acetylene and oxygen cylinders in storage and during use, preventing accidental movement or falls.

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Empty Cylinder Management

Store empty gas cylinders at the work site only if absolutely necessary. Do not leave them overnight unless it's a temporary storage solution.

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Transporting Assemblies

Prevent assemblies from falling during transport in a vehicle. Secure them properly to avoid accidents.

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Gas Cylinder Safety

Use appropriate safety measures when transporting and storing gas cylinders, preventing accidents and ensuring the safe handling of flammable materials.

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Protective Equipment (PPE)

Protective gear worn to minimize hazards during brazing, typically including welding gloves, flame-resistant clothing, and safety glasses or a shield.

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Igniting a torch with a striker

The process of lighting a torch using a striker, a specialized tool designed for safely igniting gas flames, instead of an open flame source.

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A Before O, Up You Go

A mnemonic device that aids in remembering the correct sequence of opening gas valves, ensuring safety and efficient fuel flow. 'A before O' emphasizes that the acetylene valve should be opened before the oxygen valve, while 'Up you go' signifies that both valves should be opened while moving them upwards, avoiding accidental closure.

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Tubing Bender

A specialized tool used to bend copper tubing in a controlled manner, allowing for efficient installation and reducing the risk of leaks.

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Gas Regulator Inspection

Regulators are used to control the pressure of gas. Inspect them regularly for any damage or wear.

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Gas Hose Maintenance

Gas hoses should be protected from damage. Replace them annually or if showing signs of wear.

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Importance of Regulators

Using the proper regulators to control gas pressures is critical for safe and efficient operation.

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Why Inspect Regulators?

Inspecting regulators for damage and wear ensures proper gas pressure control and prevents potential hazards.

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Why Replace Gas Hoses?

Replacing worn or damaged gas hoses is essential for safe and reliable gas delivery.

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Proper Brazing Flame

The flame should be blue and concentrated, encompassing the joint without spreading beyond it.

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Thorough Joint Cleaning

Cleaning the joint ensures a solid bond by removing impurities that could interfere with the brazing process.

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No Touching After Cleaning

After cleaning, avoid touching the brazing area to maintain the cleanliness and prevent contamination.

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Ideal Brazing Flame Characteristics

The flame should be blue, not lifting from the tip, and should fully surround the joint.

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Maintaining Surface Cleanliness

Do not touch the brazing area after cleaning to prevent contamination and ensure a clean surface for a successful braze.

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Preventing Contamination During Brazing

Keeping cleaning materials and dirt away from tubing, fittings, and parts during brazing prevents unwanted contaminants from interfering with the brazing process.

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Selecting the Right Brazing Rod and Temperature

Using the right brazing rod ensures proper melting and bonding with the materials being joined, while the correct temperature provides optimal heat for a successful braze.

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Minimizing Brazing Rod Usage

Minimizing brazing rod usage helps prevent excess filler material, ensuring a clean and efficient join, without unnecessary waste.

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Why is Reaming Important?

Use a reamer to remove burrs (sharp edges) from tubing after cutting. This helps maintain smooth refrigerant flow and prevents potential clogs or damage to the system.

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The Importance of Bending Tubing

Bending tubing helps save space and minimizes potential leaks. Use proper tools like spring, lever, or ratchet benders to ensure a controlled and safe bend.

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What are pipe hangers?

Devices used to support, secure, and suspend pipes from a structure like a ceiling or wall.

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What are clevis hangers?

A U-shaped frame with bolts that secures round pipes.

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What are beam clamps?

They attach pipes to horizontal beams or structures.

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What are strut hangers?

They use a metal strut system for greater adjustability.

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What are cushing clamps?

A circular ring used for smaller pipes to secure them.

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What are trapeze hangers?

They consist of parallel bars with rods that can be adjusted to support heavy pipes.

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What are insulated hangers?

They prevent pipe damage from vibration and minimize heat transfer, reducing condensation.

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What are PVC clamps?

They are designed to work specifically with PVC tubing.

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Study Notes

Piping, Tubing, Soldering, and Brazing

  • Learning Objectives: Demonstrate knowledge of refrigeration piping, tubing, fittings, and their applications. Demonstrate how to install piping, tubing, and components. Demonstrate soldering and brazing procedures. Demonstrate knowledge of fasteners, brackets, hangers, insulation, sealants, and adhesives. Fabricate hangers and install supports at the end of the course.

Safety Checklist

  • Use caution while cutting, threading, reaming, and handling tubing/piping. Be careful with sharp tools like hacksaws.
  • Avoid skin contact with high temperatures from welding, soldering, and brazing. Wear eye protection and appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
  • Exercise extra caution with oxyacetylene.
  • Be aware of flammables in the area and use ventilation when working with chemicals. Follow manufacturer instructions.
  • Always use care while cutting, threading, and reaming tubing/pipes; burrs can cut skin.
  • Be careful with hacksaws, as blades are sharp.
  • Stay clear of hot areas near materials that have just been welded, soldered, or brazed, as these can reach extremely high temperatures.
  • Always wear eye protection when particles are in the air.
  • Use caution with oxyacetylene heat source (avoid oil and other flammables).

Tubing/Piping Purpose

  • Tubing, piping, and fittings connect system components.
  • They allow oil to drain back to the compressor.
  • Correct material and size are essential for proper system operation; these are critical.
  • Proper system layout and installation procedures are vital; this assures proper function and safety.
  • Proper refrigerant flow is crucial to efficient and safe operation.

Handling/Storage

  • Store tubing and tools with caps to prevent contamination.
  • Prevent moisture from entering.
  • Inspect tools and materials before use.
  • Keep oil and dirt out of tools. Store cylinders upright, regulators removed.
  • Inspect torch sets and hoses prior to use.

Tubing vs. Piping

  • Copper tubing is used for plumbing, heating, and refrigerants.
  • Iron/Steel piping is used for gas and steam heating.
  • Plastic piping is used for waste drains, condensate drains, water supply, and high-efficiency gas venting.

Copper Tubing

  • Copper tubing comes as soft-drawn or hard-drawn.
  • Soft drawn comes in rolls.
  • Hard drawn comes in lengths. Soft drawn can be bent and used with fittings. Hard drawn is not intended for bending but can be annealed. Annealing is the process of working the tubing and bending it.

Hard Drawn Tubing Types

  • Type K: Heavy-duty, thick tubing wall.
  • Type L: Medium-duty, most popular.
  • Type M: Light-duty.
  • Type DWV (Drain, Waste, Vent): Lightweight, for non-refrigerant applications.

Soft Drawn Tubing Rolls

  • Sizes range from 3/16" to 1-3/8" O.D.
  • Supplied in 25-foot to 100-foot rolls.
  • Can be insulated or bare.
  • Unroll on flat surfaces. Avoid repeated bending. Avoid work hardening of the tubing.

Line Sets

  • Tubing is bundled.
  • Insulated liquid line/suction lines are common components.
  • Some are charged with refrigerant.
  • Some are charged with nitrogen (must be released prior to use.)
  • Some are capped.

ACR vs. Nominal Tubing

  • ACR tubing is sized by outside diameter (O.D.).
  • Nominal tubing is sized by inside diameter (I.D.).
  • An example: a 1-1/2" ACR tubing has a 1-1/2" outside diameter, while a 1/2" I.D tubing will have a 1-1/2" fitting for that same application.
  • 1/8" larger dimension to consider when changing from inside diameter to outside diameter.

Purpose of Insulation

  • Typically used on the low side of refrigeration equipment (evaporator and compressor inlet).
  • Prevents suction line from gaining additional heat.
  • Heat transfers hot to cold.
  • Prevents condensation by creating a barrier from the cold gas to the surrounding air.
  • Can be used to insulate hot/warm lines to prevent heat loss and for safety reasons.

Insulation Procedures

  • Easiest to install before brazing connections.
  • Powdered coatings aid in slide.
  • Glue ends for installation, not the entire length.
  • Apply adhesive/glue to ends, let it become tacky, and hold ends together for several seconds to completely adhere. Avoid excess adhesive.

Cutting Tubing

  • Use tubing cutters or hacksaws for large tubing.
  • Place tubing in the cutter or hacksaw.
  • Tighten wheel moderately to prevent out-of-round edges.
  • Turn wheel slightly to cut tubing uniformly.

Reaming

  • After cutting, burrs (rough edges) should be removed.
  • Burrs affect refrigerant flow.
  • A reamer is used to smooth the inside of the tubing.
  • Tip tubing upside down during reaming, to allow debris to fall out.

Bending Tubing

  • Keep joints and fittings to a minimum to prevent future leaks.
  • Bending tubing removes the risk of leaks and reduces contamination from poor brazing practices.
  • Use different types of bending tools, such as spring types, lever types, and ratchet types.

Soldering

  • Temperature range is 361°F to 500°F.
  • Used in plumbing and heating systems.
  • Filler materials include copper and brass, 50/50 tin/lead(not for water lines), and 95/5 tin/antimony.
  • Flux is applied to the male end to remove oxides and improve heat transfer.

Brazing

  • Melting point is 1205°F to 1550°F.
  • Filler materials include Sil-Fos rods (5% or 15% silver, rest copper).
  • Heat tubing first; this helps tubing expand into fitting.
  • Heat until fitting becomes cherry red.
  • Apply filler material.
  • Flux/capillary action pulls filler into the joint.
  • Cap ridge by applying material.

Heat Sources for Soldering/Brazing

  • Propane, butane, or MAP gas is used for soldering.
  • Air-acetylene or oxy-acetylene is used for brazing.
  • Choose proper tip size for brazing, adjusting to tubing size.

Flowing with Nitrogen

  • Flow nitrogen into tubing while brazing (1-2 psig).
  • Nitrogen removes oxygen (prevents oxidation).
  • Oxidation leaves flakes that circulate through the system, potentially sticking in dryers or valves.

Soldering and Brazing Pointers

  • Clean all surfaces to be joined.
  • Keep filings, burrs, and flux out of the pipes.
  • Heat the top portion of the fitting to pull material during vertical joints.
  • Dissimilar metals (steel/copper) are typically joined with silver solder.
  • Flux is required when joining dissimilar metals.
  • Begin heating the steel first in a steel/copper joint or installation; the steel should hold heat so the copper can become hot enough to properly work the solder or filler material.

Flame Temperatures and PPE

  • Always wear protective gloves and safety glasses suited to the application.
  • Welding gloves are an option for protection from burns.
  • Torch temperatures: Propane - 3600°F, Butane - 2600°F, Air-Acetylene - 4200°F, Oxy-acetylene - 5600°F

Flaring

  • ACR industry uses a 45° angle flare.
  • Flare nuts are torqued to specific specifications.
  • Reaming is recommended for improved flare quality.
  • A small drop of refrigerant oil is added to the back end inside the flare to create a gap from the brass nut to the copper flare, creating a better quality flare.
  • Redo the flare if it hardens due to repetition.

Sealants – Nylog

  • Can be applied to threaded connections.
  • Safe with refrigerant oil (won't contaminate the system).
  • Use can be applied to male threads, brass nut, and copper flare.

Sealants – Fire Stop

  • Fire caulking seals seams and openings in fire-resistant materials (walls, floors, ceilings).
  • Enhances fire safety by slowing or preventing the spread of fire, smoke, or toxic gases.
  • Expands with heat.
  • Suitable for floor and wall penetrations (piping/tubing/electrical).

Swaging

  • Process of joining two pieces of tubing of the same size (done through brazing or soldering.)
  • Swaging tools include punch type, screw type or lever type.
  • Punch type uses flaring block to hold tubing.
  • The punch fitting is inserted into the tubing. The tubing is hammered until it expands.
  • Screw/Lever type tools use a chuck which can change and adapt with different sizes of tubing.

Compression Fittings (RLS)

  • Prepare tubing (remove burrs, sand).
  • Use depth gauges for precise insertion.
  • Mark depth.
  • Insert fitting.
  • Align jaws with the groove and flare.
  • Trigger the cycle for completion.
  • Inspect the joint and ensure RLS stamp is present.

Supports and Brackets

  • Crucial for preventing tubing damage and leaks from vibration.
  • Follow manufacturers' specifications regarding support intervals.
  • Horizontal tubing (up to 3/4"): Support every 4-6 feet.
  • Horizontal tubing (greater than 3/4"): Support every 6-10 feet.
  • Vertical tubing: Support every 8-10 feet.
  • Support tubing at any directional change.

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Related Documents

Piping, Tubing, Soldering and Brazing PDF
Plastic Pipe Types PDF
Flaring Procedure PDF
Brazing Safety Tips PDF
Pipe Hangers and Supports PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on key concepts related to refrigeration systems and tubing. This quiz covers essential aspects like fire caulking, copper tubing use, and best practices for soldering and brazing. Get ready to reinforce your understanding of the critical elements in refrigeration systems.

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