compliance guidance for industrial process refrigeration leak
TRANSCRIPT
Compliance Guidance For
Industrial Process Refrigeration
Leak Repair Regulations
Under Section 608
Of The Clean Air Act
Prepared by:
The Chemical Manufacturers Associationand
The Environmental Protection Agency
October 1995
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This guide was prepared by a joint partnership between the Chemical ManufacturersAssociation and the Environmental Protection Agency. At the time of publication of thisGuide, the development team had the following membership:
Scot CidzikEastman Kodak Company
Sharon GidumalDuPont
Chris JonesEastman Chemcial Company
Jim KinneyUnion Carbide Corporation
Kurt MartinMonsanto Chemical Company
Shannon MosesUnion Carbide Corporation
Toby ThreetThe Dow Chemical Company
Paul WinklerQuantum Chemical Company
*Donn HirschmannAllied-Signal, Inc.
Tracy BackEPA, Office of Compliance
Emily ChowEPA, Office of Compliance
Ken GiglielloEPA, Office of Compliance
Dan LuceroEPA, Region III
Cindy NewbergEPA, Stratosperic Protection Division
James ConradCMA, Office of General Counsel
Susan ConnellaCMA, Office of General Counsel
Lucinda SchoferCMA, Regulatory Affairs Department
Rasma ZvanersCMA, Regulatory Affairs Department
Their technical insights, experiences, and suggestions were essential to the developmentof this guide.
* contributing participant of the development team
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................... A-1Purpose ............................................................................................................................A-1Intended Audience ........................................................................................................A-1What the Guidance Covers ..........................................................................................A-1What the Guidance Does Not Cover..........................................................................A-1Compliance .....................................................................................................................A-2How To Use the Guidance...........................................................................................A-2For More Information ...................................................................................................A-3Background.....................................................................................................................A-3General Summary Flow Chart ....................................................................................A-4
B. APPLICABILITY........................................................................................................B-1Affected Operations .......................................................................................................B-1Applicability Triggers ....................................................................................................B-1Questions and Answers...................................................................................................B-2
C. FULL CHARGE..........................................................................................................C-1Determining Full Charge.............................................................................................. C-1Questions and Answers.................................................................................................. C-2
D. LEAK RATE............................................................................................................... D-1Calculating a Leak Rate ................................................................................................D-1Timing..............................................................................................................................D-2Purged Refrigerant ........................................................................................................D-2Recordkeeping and Reporting ....................................................................................D-2Questions and Answers..................................................................................................D-3
E. LEAK REPAIR............................................................................................................ E-1Leak Repair Requirement .............................................................................................E-1
Situations Where More Than 30 Days Are Required........................................E-1Industrial Process Shutdown........................................................................................E-1
Unavailable Repair Parts or Other RegulationsThat Require Additional Time ..............................................................................E-1
Repair Verification..........................................................................................................E-2Initial Verification Test ..................................................................................................E-2Follow-up Verification Test ..........................................................................................E-3Initial and Follow-up Verification Test Methods .....................................................E-3EPA Notification .............................................................................................................E-4Unsuccessful Tests..........................................................................................................E-4Questions and Answers...................................................................................................E-4Checklist to Determine if a Certified Technician Is Required................................E-6
Timeline For Repair........................................................................................................E-7
F. RETROFIT AND RETIREMENT OF LEAKING REFRIGERATIONSYSTEMS.................................................................................................................... F-1
Time Extensions For Retrofit or Retirement of Industrial ProcessRefrigeration Systems ....................................................................................................F-1Relief From Obligation to Retrofit or Retire ..............................................................F-2Questions and Answers...................................................................................................F-3Timeline & Checklist For Retrofit or Retirement......................................................F-5
G. RECORDKEEPING AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ............................. G-1Leak Repair .....................................................................................................................G-1Retrofit or Retirement ...................................................................................................G-3Full Charge......................................................................................................................G-7Purged Refrigerant ........................................................................................................G-7Questions and Answers..................................................................................................G-8
H. SYSTEM MOTHBALLING..................................................................................... H-1Applicability ...................................................................................................................H-1Example of System Mothballing.................................................................................H-1Questions and Answers..................................................................................................H-2
I. OIL CHANGES........................................................................................................... I-1
J. GLOSSARY ................................................................................................................. J-1
K. REFERENCES............................................................................................................ K-1Stratospheric Ozone Information Hotline ....................................................................... K-1Stratospheric Protection Division’s INTERNET Home Page....................................... K-1Stratospheric Ozone Protection Rulemaking Summary ............................................... K-1Stratospheric Ozone Protection Final Rule Summary................................................... K-1EPA Applicability Determinations.................................................................................... K-2
APPENDIXRefrigerant Leak Repair Flow Chart..................................................................... Appendix
A. OVERVIEW
A. OVERVIEW
Purpose
The purpose of this guidance is to explain portions of the August 8, 1995, amendments tothe leak repair provisions of the refrigerant recycling regulations (hereafter refered to as“the amendments”) and assist those affected by these amendments in complying withthem. The original refrigerant recycling regulations were published on May 14, 1993(58 FR 28660). The amendments were issued by EPA on August 8, 1995, and becameeffective on September 7, 1995. The amendments make important changes to the leakrepair rules and readers familiar with the original rule should review theamendments and this guidance carefully.
Intended Audience
This guidance is intended for those persons who are responsible for their company ororganization complying with the amendments. This may include plant engineers,maintenance supervisors, or maintenance technicians.
What the Guidance Covers
This guidance is focused on aspects of the amendments relevant to industrial processrefrigeration systems. All refrigeration systems, including industrial process refrigeration,are subject to various requirements of the refrigerant recycling regulations. Therefore,you should also read the amendments and other pertinent sections of those regulations.
What the Guidance Does Not Cover
This guidance does not discuss:
• requirements for other types of refrigeration equipment; or• provisions for federal facilities; or• other aspects of the refrigerant recycling regulations (for example, equipment
certification or rules for recovering or recycling refrigerant); or• disposal of appliances containing ozone-depleting substances.
This guidance does not explain HOW to do everything required or permitted by theamendments, such as how to perform a leak test using an ultrasonic leak detector. Theguidance assumes that its readers are properly trained in the various actions it describes.If you are not sure how to do what the guidance recommends, consult withknowledgeable personnel in your company or organization.
A-1
Compliance with the portions of the refrigerant recycling regulations that are not coveredby this guidance are very important. Severe penalties can be imposed for violation ofthese regulations. You should seek appropriate assistance if you have any questionsregarding provisions of the regulations not covered here. The guidance contains a list ofreferences, Module K, containing information on those provisions.
Compliance
The policies set out in this document are not final agency action, but are intended solelyas interpretive guidance. The guidance should not be used to replace the amendments;rather, it is intended as a supplement to explain their practical requirements. Compliancewith this guidance generally should result in compliance with those aspects of theamendments that it covers.
Varying from the guidance does not necessarily mean that you will be in violation of theamendments. If you have any questions about whether or how you can depart from theguidance refer to the amendments, consult with counsel, or call the EPA StratosphericOzone Information Hotline (see next page).
How To Use the Guidance
This guidance is organized by modules. Each module is a discrete section that covers animportant aspect of the amendments. Although the modules are intended to be free-standing, we recommend that you review the entire document initially to understand theinterrelationships of the amendments’ various parts. Once you understand the variouscompliance options that the amendments present, the modules can be used asindependent references.
Throughout the guidance, you will find words in italics. The italicized words are definedin the glossary (Module J). In each module, a Question and Answer section is provided tohelp clarify confusing issues or to answer commonly asked questions.
This guidance contains flow charts that illustrate the compliance options of theamendments. A simplified version follows at the end of this module. A more detailedversion is contained in its entirety as an appendix at the end of this guidance document,showing, in detail, all the decision points and possible paths to follow to comply with theamendments.
A-2
You should understand two important issues UP FRONT:
1. The amendments contain several alternative pathways you can follow. Each one ofthese pathways has deadlines that are triggered by various actions. Once you startdown one pathway, you may not be able to switch to another. UNDERSTAND theassociated time frames before you choose a course of action.
2. The amendments require you to notify EPA of various events. UNDERSTAND thesebefore you start, so you can make the appropriate notification(s) at the requiredtime(s).
For More Information
Module K is a list of references containing more information about the amendments andthe refrigerant recycling regulations generally.
EPA operates a Stratospheric Ozone Information Hotline that provides information aboutozone protection regulations and requirements under Title VI of the Clean Air ActAmendments of 1990. The Hotline also serves as a distribution center and point ofreferral for an array of information pertaining to other general aspects of stratosphericozone protection and depletion.
Number: 800-296-1996Hours of Operation: 10:00 a.m. - 4 p.m. Eastern time, Mondays to Fridays,
excluding holidays.
Background
The amendments pertain to the leak repair provisions of EPA’s refrigerant recyclingregulations. The refrigerant recycling regulations were called for by Congress as part ofTitle VI of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. Title VI, entitled Stratospheric OzoneProtection, is generally directed toward eliminating the threat posed to the earth’sprotective stratospheric (or high-level) ozone layer by certain ozone-depleting substances(ODSs). Section 608 of the Act calls on EPA to publish rules regarding the use, recycling,and disposal of ODS in various applications, including industrial process and commercialrefrigeration systems.
The original EPA rules on this subject (sometimes referred to within industry as the “no-venting rule”) were published on May 14, 1993 (58 CFR. 28660). Several amendmentshave been made to the rule; please see Module K, References, for a complete list of thecurrent amendments.
A-3
General Summary FlowchartSTART
STOP
Is my refrigeration system
subject to EPA's leak repair requirements?
(Module B)
Is there enough leakage to
trigger the amendment's requirement to take
action?(Module C, D)
Mandatory repair, retrofit or retirement of system
No specificaction required
STOP
YesNo Yes
Decide whether to repair,
retrofit, or retire the system
Deadlines & Extensions (Module E-1)
Verification Testing (Module E-2)
Recordkeeping & Reporting (Module G-1)
What to do if you pass/failthe tests (Module E-2)
Switching to retrofit/retirementof the system (Module E-2)
Mothballing (Module H-1)
Deadlines & Extensions (Module F-1)
Recordkeeping & Reporting (Module G-2)
Switching to repair the leak(s) (Module F-2)
Release from obligation toretrofit/retire the system (Module F-2)
Mothballing (Module H-2)
RepairRetrofit orRetirement
A-4
No
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
B. APPLICABILITY
B. APPLICABILITY
In this guidance document, theterm “systems” is used to referto refrigeration appliances andequipment.
Affected Operations
Industrial process refrigeration is defined as complex,customized systems used in the chemical,pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and manufacturingindustries. These systems are directly linked to theindustrial process. This sector also includes industrialice machines, appliances used directly in the generationof electricity, and ice rinks. (see Glossary) Theamendments refer to “appliances” and “equipment,” butthis guidance refers to “systems”— the term morecommonly used in the industry.
The refrigerant recycling rule applies to systems thatcontain and use a class I or class II substance as arefrigerant.
• Class I refrigerants are mostlychlorofluorocarbon (CFC) refrigerants or anyrefrigerant mixture containing a CFC.
• Class II refrigerants are hydrochloro-fluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerants or anyrefrigerant mixture containing an HCFC.
NOTE: If you are not sure whether you have a class I orclass II refrigerant, refer to the lists in 40 CFR, Part 82,Subpart A, Appendices A and B or call your refrigerantsupplier.
Trigger RatesFor all systems that have a refrigerantcharge of more than 50 pounds:
SYSTEM RATE commercial refrigeration 35% industrial process refrigeration 35%Comfort cooling 15%All other refrigeration 15%
Applicability Triggers
The leak repair requirements of this regulation aretriggered when an owner or operator of an industrialprocess refrigeration system discovers that refrigerant isleaking at a rate that would exceed 35 percent of thetotal charge in a 12-month period. (See Module D formore information on leak rates.)
EXEMPTIONS OREXCLUSIONS
Leak repair provisions of thisregulation do NOT affect systemsnormally containing 50 pounds orless of refrigerant.
B-1
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Why does the same refrigerantnumber begin with different letters;for example, is R-12 the same asCFC-12?
There are many different ways to refer to the samechemical including some trade names. Since thisamendment applies to ozone-depleting substances(ODSs) that are refrigerants, you should determinewhether or not your refrigerant is or contains an ODS.
Do the leak repair requirementsapply to HCFC refrigerants such asR-22?
Yes, the requirements apply to all Class I and ClassII ozone-depleting substances. This includes CFCs,HCFCs, and blends that contain CFCs or HCFCs.
The refrigerant recyclingamendments refers to “ appliances.”I think of appliances as household-type refrigeration equipment, suchas refrigerators, freezers, andwindow air conditioners. Is leakrepair required for theseappliances?
No, the refrigerant charges in household appliancesare normally less than 50 pounds. As it is used inthese regulations, the term “ appliance” means any typeof refrigeration equipment, no matter how large or small.Systems normally containing 50 pounds or less ofrefrigerant are excluded from leak repair requirements,even though they are appliances and are subject to otheraspects of the refrigerant recycling amendments.
I have an appliance that is used inan industrial process refrigerationapplication and is used in a coolingapplication (or is used to cool acontrol room). Which trigger rateapplies to my appliance?
If at least 50 percent of an appliance’s capacity isbeing used in an industrial process refrigerationapplication, the appliance is considered an industrialprocess refrigeration system and a 35 percent leakrate is the trigger. If less than 50 percent of theappliance’s capacity is being used in an industrialprocess refrigeration application, then this systemwould not be considered industrial processrefrigeration. In this specific example, the systemwould be comfort cooling with a 15 percent trigger rate.
The leak repair requirements applyonly if the independent refrigerantcircuit has more than 50 pounds ofrefrigerant. What is an independentrefrigerant circuit?
A refrigerant circuit consists of equipment thatcarries refrigerant (typically in a closed loop) to andfrom the point of cooling. For example, refrigerantmay flow from a compressor to other components, suchas heat exchangers and evaporators, and back to thecompressor. Most refrigeration systems have only onerefrigerant circuit. A minority of systems have two ormore refrigerant circuits that are completely isolatedfrom each other (i.e., they are designed to avoidmingling refrigerant from one circuit with refrigerantfrom another circuit). These are independentrefrigerant circuits.
B-2
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
What if my industrial processrefrigeration system has twoindependent refrigeration circuits,one with a full charge greater than50 pounds, the other with a fullcharge less than 50 pounds?
The circuit whose full charge is greater than 50pounds would be subject to leak repairrequirements. The circuit whose full charge is lessthan 50 pounds would not be subject to leak repairrequirements.
Many industrial processrefrigeration systems are physicallyintegrated into a manufacturingprocess. How can I tell whichequipment is part of therefrigeration system and which isnot?
The industrial process refrigeration system consists ofonly the interconnected equipment that contains,conveys, or otherwise handles the refrigerant. Forexample, if a single major component has portions thatcontain refrigerant and portions that contain other fluids(such as process fluids in a heat exchanger or oil in acompressor), the entire component is part of therefrigeration system. Other piping or processingequipment that contains solvents, raw materials, orother nonrefrigerants is not part of the refrigerationsystem.
B-3
C. FULL CHARGE
C. FULL CHARGE
You MUST know the full chargeof your refrigeration system.
You MUST use an acceptablemethod.
If you use method a, b, or c, itis recommended that youdocument (and are able to show)how you determined the fullcharge, although it is notspecifically required.
If you use method d, you arerequired to document how youdetermined the full charge.
If you use method e, you arenot required to keep recordsunless you incorporate method d.
The full charge is the amount of refrigerant necessary foran industrial process refrigeration system to operate atnormal operating characteristics and conditions. Thereare two reasons why you need to know how muchrefrigerant is in the full charge for a system:
1. The leak repair requirements of this law do notapply to any system whose full charge is 50pounds or less of refrigerant in any independentrefrigerant circuit.
2. To calculate the leak rate for a system, you need to
know the full charge (see Module D for moreinformation on leak rates).
To determine the full charge , you must use one of thefollowing methods:
a. Measure the refrigerant. For example, draw therefrigerant from the system and weigh it. Or, youcan measure how much refrigerant you put intoan empty system to fully charge it.
b. Calculate the weight of the refrigerant charge in
the system. c. Use the manufacturer's information. Some
manufacturers specify the amount of refrigerant inthe full charge for a system, either on a plateattached to the system or in specifications (orvendor literature).
d. Establish range. If you know the system
functions properly within a range of refrigerantamounts, use the midpoint of that range. Specialrecordkeeping requirements apply if this methodis used alone or in combination with othermethods. (See Module G for more information onrecordkeeping).
e. Combinations of a through d. For example,suppose you have a system that consists of two
C-1
components connected by pipe or tubing. Thelength of the pipe or tubing varies from oneinstallation to another. As a result, themanufacturer has specified how much refrigerantis in a full charge for the two components, butNOT for the pipe or tubing. You may calculatehow much refrigerant is in the length of pipe ortubing for your system, and then add that amountto the manufacturer's estimates for the twocomponents.
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Should I be concerned about themargin of error in determining thefull charge?
Yes, but EPA recognizes that there is some margin oferror in any determination of the amount of refrigerant ina system. If you have made your determination basedon the best information available and soundprofessional judgment, the full charge number isacceptable.
If the manufacturer’s statement ofthe full charge is wrong, whatshould I do?
Do not use the manufacturer's statement of the full chargeif you know it is incorrect.
Sometimes a manufacturer's statement of the fullcharge is incorrect. For example, a system may havebeen customized by adding more components. Oradditional refrigerant may be used because the systemis operating under conditions that the manufacturerdid not anticipate. In some cases, the manufacturermay simply have goofed, and it is obvious that the fullcharge is much larger or smaller than themanufacturer said. If the manufacturer has obviouslygoofed, choose one of the other acceptable methods todetermine the full charge.
The manufacturer's information may, however, stillhave some use. For example, if you have customized asystem by adding components, you may be able tocalculate the amount of refrigerant in thosecomponents and add it to the manufacturer'sestimated charge for the original system.
Am I allowed to change the fullcharge number? If I change it,should I recalculate all my leakrate determinations?
Yes, you may change the full charge number if youobtain new and better information. No, you do not haveto recalculate any previously determined leak rates. Youwould, however, use the new full charge number incalculating any future leak rates.
Do I have to use the same methodto determine full charge for all
No.
systems at my facility?
D. LEAK RATE
C-2
D. LEAK RATE
The trigger rate for industrialprocess refrigeration systemsis 35 percent.
REPAIRREPAIRRETROFITRETROFITRETIRERETIRE
Each time you add refrigerant to a system normallycontaining 50 pounds or more of refrigerant (see Module C),you should promptly calculate the leak rate. If the leak rate ishigher than the trigger rate, you are required to do one of thefollowing:
a. Repair leaks (see Module E);b. Retrofit the system (see Module F); orc. Retire the system from service (see Module F).
Calculating a Leak Rate
Presented below is one way of calculating a leak rate.Facilities can use other methods, e.g., rolling averages.
1. Take the number of pounds of refrigerant you addedto return the system to a full charge and divide it bythe number of pounds of refrigerant in the normal fullcharge for the system.
#lbs refrigerant added #lbs refrigerant in normal full charge
2. Take the number of days that have passed betweencharges (that is, how many days between the lasttime refrigerant was added and this time refrigerantwas added) and divide by 365 (the number of days ina year).
#days since refrigerant last added 365 days
3. Take the number you determined in step 1 anddivide it by the number you determined in step 2.
4. Multiply the number you determined in step 3 by 100(to calculate a percentage).
Another way of expressing this is with the following formula:
LEAK RATE %= pounds of refrigerant added x
365 days x 100 pounds of Full charge #days since refrigerant last added
D-1
The result is the leak rate, expressed in the percent of fullcharge that would be lost per 12-month period.
In some complicated situations, other calculations may alsobe appropriate. For example, if a known amount ofrefrigerant was removed intentionally and put back into thesystem, then that amount should not be counted as a "leak".The four-step approach described above, however, will givethe correct leak rate in ordinary situations.
Timing
After refrigerant is added, you should calculate the leak rateas soon as you can. If the system is leaking above thetrigger rate, the law imposes strict deadlines for repairingthe leaks or retrofitting or retiring the system (see ModulesE and F). For example, if you wait three days to determinethe leak rate, there will be three less days available to solvethe problem.
Purged Refrigerant
In calculating the leak rate, you may exclude purgedrefrigerant that is destroyed. A destruction efficiency of atleast 98 percent is required, and there are monitoring,recordkeeping, and reporting requirements (see Module Gfor more information on recordkeeping and reporting).
If you are theOWNER OR OPERATOR:
Recordkeeping/Reporting
Keep records that show:
1. The date and type of service;2. How much refrigerant was added; and3. The date when the refrigerant was added.
It may be required and is always advisable tokeep records of the full charge and leak rate.For additional recordkeeping requirements, seeModule G, Recordkeeping and ReportingRequirements.
D-2
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
If the leak rate is less than thetrigger rate (for example, a leakrate of 5 percent per 12-monthperiod), am I required to fix theleaks?
No, action is required only when the trigger rate is exceeded.
If a system has a 100-poundcharge and is allowed a 35percent leak rate, I don't haveto fix leaks until 35 pounds ofrefrigerant have leaked out,right?
Wrong. What matters is the annual leak rate. The annualleak rate is the amount of refrigerant that would leak outin a 12-month period if you did nothing about it. Forexample, suppose you know your system lost 4 pounds ofrefrigerant in January, and you discovered the losses byadding refrigerant on the first day of February. At aleak rate of 4 pounds per month, the system would lose48 pounds of refrigerant in a 12-month period (48percent of the full charge), so you are already under adeadline to promptly repair the leaks or retrofit or retirethe system. You do NOT get to wait until 35 pounds ofrefrigerant have already leaked out before you startfiguring out how to solve the problem.
If the leak rate is higher thanthe trigger rate (for example, aleak rate of 50 percent per 12-month period), am I inviolation by either (a) operatingthe system while it is leaking;or (b) adding refrigerant tokeep the system operating?
No. Adding refrigerant or operating a system with aleak rate higher than the trigger rate is allowedtemporarily . A violation would only occur if you do notadhere to the timelines and methods required forrepairing, retrofitting or retiring the system as describedin Modules E and F.
When should I calculate theleak rate?
You should calculate an annual leak rate each time you addrefrigerant or any time sound professional judgmentindicates the system may be leaking more than the triggerrate.
Do I have to check the leak rateon a routine basis, such as everymonth?
No.
Should I establish a process toroutinely look for leaks?
You are not required to establish such a process, but it maybe beneficial as an early detection of leaks. You mustrepair, retrofit, or retire the system when you areoperating above the trigger rate.
If my system starts leakingabove the trigger rate, is that aviolation?
No. The law does not prohibit leaks, provided you repair,retrofit, or retire the leaking system by applicable deadlines.If a system develops a leak, it is not illegal; the regulationsrecognize that systems leak.
D-3
E. LEAK REPAIR
E. LEAK REPAIR
D E C I S I O N P O I N T !
R e p a i r R e t r o f i t o r R e t i r e
NOTE:In the recycling regulations, “evacuate”means to remove refrigerant from asystem. It is comparable to the term“recover,” which is a word commonlyused in the refrigeration field.Evacuate is not used in theseamendments in its technical sense ofremoving moisture or inerts from asystem.
Leak Repair Requirement
If a system is leaking above the trigger rate, leak repairsare required within 30 days of discovery. Repairs mustbring the annual leak rate below the trigger rate. SeeModule B, Applicability, for more information on triggerrates. A leak repair timeline is presented on page E-7.Leak repairs are not required if you retrofit or retire thesystem (see Module F).
Certain activities require a certified technician, see page E-6 for more details.
Situations Where More Than 30 Days Are Allowed
There are situations where additional time may bepermitted as discussed below. Also, see Module H,System Mothballing.
Industrial Process Shutdown
When an industrial process shutdown is needed to repairleaks from industrial process refrigeration systems, a 120-day repair period (rather than a 30-day period) isallowed.
Unavailable Repair Parts or Other Regulations ThatRequire Additional Time
Additional time (beyond the 30- or 120-day time periods)is allowed to conduct leak repairs if the necessary repairparts are unavailable or if other applicable federal, state,or local regulations make a repair within 30 or 120 daysimpossible. EPA must be notified per 40 CFR 82.166(n) ifrepairs cannot be completed within 30 or 120 days ofdiscovery. Only the additional time needed to receivedelivery of the necessary parts or comply with thepertinent regulations will be permitted.
E-1
Repair Verification:
A new feature of the amendments is a requirement toverify the success of leak repairs (when leak repairs arerequired) for industrial process refrigeration systems.Two tests, called “initial” and “follow-up” verificationtests are required for each repair site. A successful testverifies that a leak has been repaired.
What are these tests for?
The primary purpose of the initial verification test is toverify that a leak or leaks have been repaired beforerefrigerant is added back to the system. Even when thesystem is not evacuated to complete repairs, initial andfollow-up verification tests are required. The primarypurpose of the follow-up verification test is to re-verifythat repairs continue to hold after the system is returnedto its normal operating characteristics or conditions.
Initial Verification Test
An initial verification test must be conducted followingany leak repairs. A refrigeration system may not bebrought back on line (if it has been taken off line), unlessa) an initial verification test indicates that repairs havebeen successfully completed or b) a decision to retrofit orretire is made. The initial verification test must beconducted before the replacement of the full charge ofrefrigerant in systems (or isolated portions of systems)from which the refrigerant has been evacuated. Insystems that have not been evacuated, the initialverification test must be conducted as soon as practicableafter the repair work is completed.
Follow-up Verification Test
A follow-up verification test must be conducted:
• within 30 days after the initial verification test,where normal operating characteristics or conditionshave been maintained; or
• within 30 days of bringing the system back online, if taken off line, and where the system isoperating at normal operating characteristics orconditions.
Exception: In certain cases the results of a follow-upverification test may be less reliable if the test is conductedat normal operating characteristics or conditions. Forexample, repairs made to leaks inside heat exchangerswould not normally be accessible after the system isoperating. In this kind of situation, based on soundprofessional judgment, the follow-up verification test maybe conducted prior to returning to normal operatingcharacteristics or conditions. However, the follow-upverification test must be conducted at or near the normaloperating pressure where practicable, and at or near thenormal operating temperature where practicable.
Initial and Follow-up Verification TestMethods
Initial and follow-up verification tests may use any methodthat meets sound professional judgment. Test examplesinclude, but are not limited to:
• A soap bubble test; or• Electronic leak detectors; or• Ultrasonic leak detectors; or• A pressure test; or• A vacuum test; or• A fluorescent dye and black light test; or• An infrared test; or• A near infrared (back scatter absorption gas
imaging) test; or• Halon refrigerant gas detection methods.
E-2E-3
EPA Notification
Notify EPA per 40 CFR 82.166(n) within 30 days aftercompletion of any verification test where a time extensionis utilized (see Module G).
Unsuccessful Tests
If you have an unsuccessful follow-up verification test, youmust notify EPA and develop a retrofit or retirement planwithin 30 days of the failed test. If it is going to take youmore than one year you must also submit the plan (seeModule F). If the follow-up verification test indicates thatthe repairs to the system have not been successfullycompleted, the owner or operator is required retrofit orretire the system. However, there are some optionswhere the owner or operator is relieved of the obligationto retrofit or retire the system (see Module F).
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
When am I required to performinitial and follow-up verificationtests on industrial processrefrigeration?
Initial and follow-up verification tests are requiredfollowing leak repairs when the refrigerant leak rate for asystem EXCEEDS the trigger rate . Initial and follow-upverification tests are not required for leak repairs onsystems leaking less than the trigger rate.
Are initial and follow-upverification tests required forsystems other than industrialprocess refrigeration?
Yes, but only for federally owned chillers.
What constitutes a successfulverification test?
A verification test is successful when it shows that the leakhas been successfully repaired.
Are there any EPA-approved leakdetection methods I can use?
EPA does not specify any particular method(s). You mayuse any method that meets sound professional judgment.
Do initial and follow-upverification tests have to verifythat you reduced the annual leakrate to zero?
No. The purpose of the verification requirement is toevaluate the success of the particular repair you made.
E-4
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Must I repair all leaks on a systemto comply?
Repair efforts must bring leak rates below the trigger rate.
Under what circumstances do Ihave a 120-day repair period?
A 120-day repair period is allowed when an industrialprocess shutdown is required to repair a leak(s) fromindustrial process refrigeration systems. An industrialprocess shutdown occurs when an industrial processtemporarily stops operating or manufacturing what isbeing produced at the facility.
Do I have an unlimited number ofattempts to repair leaks within theallowed time?
Yes, you are allowed to try to repair the leak(s) asmany times as you need to within the allowed timeperiod. The last repair attempt within theallowed time and the verification tests on thatattempt are what matters. If the repair effortsoccur during a time extension, send the results ofthe last initial and follow-up verification testsperformed during the repair period to EPA.
Do all leak repairs have to beperformed by a certifiedtechnician?
If refrigerant could reasonably be expected to bereleased, then the procedure must be performed by acertified technician. (See the checklist on page E-5 formore information.)
Do the time extensions forrepairing leaks apply to systemsother than industrial processrefrigeration systems?
Yes, there may be time extensions available for federallyowned chillers. Time extensions are not available forother refrigeration systems except for systemmothballing (see Module H).
E-5
REFRIGERANT RECYCLING AMENDMENTS
Activity (on ODS refrigeration system)Is technician1
certificationrequired?
YES2 NO
Evacuating the refrigerant
Adding refrigerant
Changing the oil
Adding oil
Replacing a gauge
Changing or calibrating a DP cell
Changing a pressure-relief valve
Drawing a sample of refrigerant or oil
Helping dismantle a system for disposal, if that person’s workmay reasonably result in a release of refrigerant
Any of the tasks listed above, performed under the directsupervision of a certified technician
Maintenance that would not reasonably release refrigerant(such as painting; leak-checking; some electrical work; andsome insulation work)
Fixing leaks by tightening nuts or bolts, if no specific reason tothink the activity may go wrong and increase the rate of release
Any work on the system after the refrigerant has beenevacuated to the extent required by 82.156
1 Technician Certification Amendment to the National Recycling Program FR 55912 (11/9/93) (see Module K)2 A certified technician is required unless the system (or isolated portion) has been evacuated to the level listed in the rule
E-6
F. RETROFIT AND RETIREMENTOF LEAKING REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
F. RETROFIT AND RETIREMENTOF LEAKING REFRIGERATIONSYSTEMS
D E C I S I O N P O I N T !
R e p a i r R e t r o f i t o r R e t i r e
EXCEPTION:
If you switched from repair to retrofitor retire, you must notify EPA within30 days from the day you switch.However, you are still under the12-month period provision from the time the leak was discovered.
More time may be available.
Owners or operators of commercial refrigerationequipment, industrial process refrigeration systems,and/or all other systems normally containing more than50 pounds of refrigerant are not required to repair leaksif they develop, implement, and complete a 12-monthretrofit or retirement plan. Three conditions, however,must be met:
1. The retrofit or retirement plan must be developedwithin 30 days of detecting the leak and a copymust be kept on site; and
2. The plan must be dated and the original madeavailable for EPA inspection upon request; and
3. Retrofit or retirement activities must becompleted within a 12-month period of the plan'sdate.
Time Extensions for Retrofit or Retirementof Industrial Process Refrigeration Systems
Additional time beyond the initial 12-month period tocomplete retrofit or retirement activities is available toowners or operators of industrial process refrigerationsystems if any of the following circumstances occur:
a. A delay is caused by the requirements of otherapplicable federal, state, or local regulations. Inthis case, additional time to the extent reasonablynecessary will be allowed; or
b. A suitable replacement refrigerant is not available.
In this case, additional time to the extentreasonably necessary will be allowed; or
c. The unit is custom-built and the supplier of the
system or a critical component has quoted adelivery time of more than 30 weeks from whenthe order is placed. In this case, an additional 12-month period is allowed. To receive thisextension, you must notify EPA within six
F-1
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
An industrial processshutdown does not extend thedeadline for notification toEPA if more time is needed.
Even MORE TIME may beavailable!
months of the expiration of the 30-day period.
If the owner or operator of a custom-builtindustrial process refrigeration system hasreceived an additional 12-month period forretrofit or retirement activities, but still requiresmore time to complete the retrofit or retirement(beyond the additional time already allowed),then a request for additional time may besubmitted to EPA.
If you think you qualify for additionaltime, you must notify EPA. SeeModule G, Recordkeeping andReporting, for more information.
If you think the situation inbullet #2 will apply, you willneed to tell EPA how you willmake the determination inyour submission to EPAnotifying them of the failedfollow-up verification test.(The amendment refers tothis as providingparameters.) The parametersyou submit will beconsidered acceptable unlessEPA notifies you within 30days. Otherwise, you mustuse parameters that EPAprovides.
Relief From Obligation to Retrofit or Retire
As mentioned in the leak repair module, sometimes afailed follow-up verification test can result in arequirement to retrofit or retire a system. You may berelieved of this requirement if either of the followingefforts is successful:
1. Make second efforts to repair the same leaks thatwere the subject of the first repair attempt.Repairs must be completed within 30 days of thefailed test (120 days where the repair requires anindustrial process shutdown). Second repairs aresubject to the same verification requirements asthe first efforts (i.e., initial and follow-upverification tests). If the second follow-upverification test is successful, EPA must be notifiedper 40 CFR 82.166(n) within 30 days of itscompletion and the owner or operator is nolonger required to retire or retrofit the system.
2. Within 180 days of a failed follow-up verificationtest associated with the initial repair efforts,establish that the leak rate is below the triggerrate. Within 30 days after that determination,send a new notification telling EPA that you arenow below the trigger rate (see Module G).
F-2
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
I have a custom-builtindustrial processrefrigeration system leakingR-22 at over 35 percent per12-month period. I knowthat the leaks cannot berepaired. In developing theretrofit or retirement planfor this refrigeration system,I will need more than a 12-month period because acritical component (thecompressor) requires morethan 30 weeks delivery time.How do I obtain more timeto retrofit or retire thesystem?
Within six months of 30 days after discovery of theleak, notify EPA that you need the second 12-monthperiod and why and include the estimate forcompletion of the work. (See Module G forrecordkeeping or reporting information.)
I followed the proceduresfor obtaining the second 12-month period to completemy retrofit or retirement.Several months later, I wasnotified by the manufacturerof the critical componentthat my original completiondate will take 60 days longerthan originally quoted.What do I do?
Notify EPA within 30 days of discovery of the newcompletion date.
What happens if I follow theprocedures for obtaining asecond 12-month period toperform a retrofit orretirement, and then I amtold by the manufacturer ofa critical component thatthe delivery will not allowme to complete my retrofitwithin two 12-monthperiods?
You have until the end of the ninth month of thesecond 12-month period to submit a request to EPAfor additional time.
F-3
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
I have developed a retrofitplan and notified EPA of afailed follow-up verificationtest. During the secondrepair effort, however, Imanaged to successfullyrepair the same leak(s).Must I implement theretrofit plan?
No, you are relieved of the obligation to retrofit butyou must notify EPA within 30 days.
According to the amendments, Iam relieved of the obligation toretrofit or retire an industrialprocess refrigeration system if Iverify that the leak rate is belowthe trigger rate within 180 daysafter the failed follow-upverification test. How is thisdone?
1. Determine the parameters you will use toestablish the leak rate. Submit those parametersto EPA for approval (as described in ModuleG, Recordkeeping and Reporting).
2. Take any further action necessary to reduceleaks. Further action to reduce leaks mightinclude repairing smaller leaks that may nothave been repaired previously; replacingpiping systems (or welding the joints) toeliminate screwed or flanged connectors; orreplacing major components for which repairhas proven impractical. In some cases, theleak rate may be below the trigger ratewithout further action, even though one ormore of the original repairs did not pass afollow-up verification test.
3. Determine the new leak rate, using the approvedparameters. For example, this may includefilling the system, waiting for a definedperiod of time, and seeing how muchrefrigerant is needed to fill the system again.
NOTE: If you are unable to verify that the leak rateis below the trigger rate by the deadline, you willhave used up a substantial portion of the 12-monthperiod to retrofit or retire the system. You do notget an extra 180 days added to that period.
F-4
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
G. RECORDKEEPING AND REPORTINGREQUIREMENTS
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
It is advisable in ALL cases tomaintain records of the leak rateand full charge.
When servicing systems normallycontaining 50 pounds or more ofrefrigerant you are always requiredto keep the following information:
• date & type of service;• quantity of refrigerant added;• when refrigerant purchased;• when refrigerant added in cases
where the owner added theirown refrigerant.
G. RECORDKEEPING ANDREPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Records reportable to EPA must be maintained on site forthree years. Any reporting requirements must besubmitted to the following address:
608 Recycling Program ManagerStratospheric Protection Division6205JUS Environmental Protection Agency401 M Street, SWWashington, DC 20460
Leak Repair (Industrial ProcessRefrigeration)
If you complete all the required repairs successfullywithout needing additional time, the amendments do notrequire any new recordkeeping or reporting. This meansthat no new records or reports are required if the repairsare (1) completed within 30 days (120 days if anindustrial process shutdown is necessary), and (2) passinitial and follow-up verification tests. If more time isneeded, or if the repairs do not pass follow-up verificationtests, additional recordkeeping and reporting are required.These requirements are described below.
1. If any of the repairs have failed the follow-upverification test:
a) You must keep on-site documentation of thefollowing information and report it to EPA within30 days after the failed follow-up verification test:
• the identification of the facility;
• the leak rate;
• the method used to determine the leak rateand full charge;
• the date of discovery that the leak rate wasabove the trigger rate;
• the location of leaks to the extent determinedto date;
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
• any repair work that has already beencompleted; and the date when that work wascompleted;
• the date(s), type(s) and results of the failedfollow-up verification test(s); and
• if you intend, or think you could eventuallyattempt to verify within 180 days that theleak rate is below 35 percent, you mustprovide EPA the parameters on how the leakrate will be determined. EPA will informyou if they object to your parameters (seeModule F).
b) You must develop a retrofit or retirement planwithin 30 days after the failed follow-upverification test. You must keep the plan on-siteand make the original available to EPA uponrequest, but you do not have to submit the plan toEPA unless you will need an extension of time tofinish the retrofit or retirement (beyond one yearfrom the date you develop your plan).
2. If you need additional time to repair leaks due to otherregulatory delays, or because delivery of necessaryrepair parts will take too long, then:
a) Within 30 days after making the determinationthat you need extra time, you must keep on-site,and report to EPA:
• the identification of the facility;
• the leak rate;
• the method used to determine the leak rateand full charge;
• the date of discovery that the leak rate wasabove the trigger rate;
• the location of leaks to the extent determinedto date;
• any repair work that has already beencompleted; and the date when that work wascompleted;
• documentation of the reasons why more than30 days (or 120 days, if an industrial processshutdown is necessary for repairs) are neededto complete the work; and
• an estimate of when the repairs will beG-1G-2
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
b) Notify EPA if you discover that the repairs willtake longer than you have previously told EPA.Send this notification within 30 days afterdiscovering the need for more time. Include a newestimate of when the work will be completed.
Retrofit or Retirement (Industrial ProcessRefrigeration)
If you complete successful retrofit or retirement withinthe normal one-year period, the amendments do notrequire any new recordkeeping or reporting. However,you are still required to develop and maintain, on-site, aretrofit or retirement plan.
The amendments have some additional requirements forsituations where you need an extension of time tocomplete the retrofit or retirement, and for situationswhere you are relieved of the duty to retrofit or retire asystem. These are described below.
1. If you are completing your retrofit or retirementwithin the 12-month period, you must:
• maintain the retrofit or retirement plan on-site; and
• make the original plan available to EPA uponrequest.
2. If you will need an extension of time because ofdelays caused by other regulations, or because there isno suitable replacement refrigerant, then:
a) Notify EPA within six months after the end of the30-day period following discovery of theexcessive leak rate. The notification mustinclude the following information, which mustalso be retained on-site. EPA will respond within60 days, telling you whether they agree that youare entitled to the extra time you have requested.
• the identification of the facility;
• the leak rate;
• the method used to determine the leak rateand full charge;
NOTE: You only get the amount ofextra time that is reasonablynecessary.
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
• the date when the excessive leak ratewas discovered;
• the location of leaks to the extentdetermined so far;
• any repair work that has already beencompleted and the date of completion;
• the reasons why you need an extensionof time, and an estimate of when theretrofit or retirement will be completed.Include records sufficient for EPA todetermine that extra time is needed andhow much time; and
• a copy of your retrofit or retirementplan.
b) If you have already notified EPA, and then youdiscover that the work will take longer tocomplete than you have previously told EPA, youmust submit documentation with the reasonswithin 30 days after discovering that more time isneeded. Include a new estimate of when the workwill be completed and the date of your originalnotification to EPA.
3. If you have been required to follow the retrofit orretirement timeline because repairs failed a follow-upverification test, then:
a) If you complete the retrofit or retirement within12 months after the 30 day period fromdiscovery of the leak, there are no additionalreporting requirements;
b) If you intend to be released from the requirementto retrofit or retire the system by demonstrating(within 180 days after the failed follow-upverification test) that you have brought the leakrate below the trigger rate, then you must do threethings:
• Within 30 days after the failed test(s), submit aplan to fix other outstanding leaks for whichrepairs, if any, are planned but not yetcompleted to achieve an acceptable leak rate;and
G-3
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
• Include, with the plan described above, adescription of how you will determinewhether the leak rate is below the trigger rate.Your proposed method is acceptable unlessEPA objects within 30 days after receivingyour plan. If EPA objects and provides adifferent method, follow that method; and
• After you have determined the new leak rate,if it is less than the trigger rate notify EPAwithin 30 days after that determination. Tellthem that the leak rate is below the triggerrate, and tell them you are no longer requiredto retrofit or retire the system. If part of yourplan was to complete and test further repairs,or to re-test existing repairs, include thedate(s), type(s) and results of the follow-upverification tests.
c) If you are released from the requirement to retrofitor retire the system because the second repairefforts (within 30 or 120 days after the failed test)have passed initial and follow up verificationtests, you must notify EPA within 30 days aftercompletion of the successful tests. Notify EPAthat your second repair efforts were successful,and that you are no longer required to retrofit orretire the system.
Include in your notification to EPA:• the identification of the facility;• a description of the refrigeration system;• the date of your original notification to EPA;
and• the date work was completed on the system.
4. If your system is custom-built and you want the one-year extension, then notify EPA (see Module F). Thenotification is due within six months after the end ofthe 30 day period following discovery of the excessiveleak rate. The notification must include the followinginformation, which must also be retained on-site.
• the identification of the facility and the owneror operator;
• a description of the refrigeration system;• the leak rate;
G-4G-5
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
• the method used to determine the leak rate andfull charge;
• the date when the excessive leak rate wasdiscovered;
• the location of leaks to the extent determined sofar;
• any repair work that has already beencompleted
and the date of completion;• the reasons why you need an extension of time.
Include records sufficient for EPA to determinethat you qualify for the extra year. This meansyou must demonstrate that the new or retrofittedsystem is custom-built, and that a vendor hasquoted a delivery time of more than 30 weeksfrom when an order is placed, for the system ora critical component;
• an estimate that the retrofit or retirement will becompleted by the end of the one-year extension;
• a copy of your retrofit or retirement plan; and• the date of your original notification to EPA if
any.
5. If your system is custom-built, you have alreadyreceived one extra year, and you discover that you willneed more time (beyond a total of two years), then youmust request additional time. The request must be sentto EPA before the end of the ninth month of the secondyear. It must contain relevant revisions of theinformation you submitted when you sent the notice toget the first extra year. Notify EPA how much moretime you will need, and the reasons why. If EPA doesnot object within 30 days after receiving your request,you are granted the additional time.
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
Full Charge
If the full charge of an industrial process refrigerationsystem is determined by establishing a range or combiningthe use of an established range with any other acceptablemethod (discussed in Module C), records must bemaintained .
These records must include:
• Identification of the owner or operator of thesystem;
• Location of the system;• Original range for the full charge of the system, its
midpoint, and how the range was determined;• Any and all revisions of the full charge range and
how they were determined; and• Dates such revisions occurred.
Purged Refrigerant
Owners or operators who wish to exclude purgedrefrigerants that are destroyed from annual leak ratecalculations must maintain records to support the amountof refrigerant claimed as sent for destruction. Recordsmust be based on a monitoring strategy that providesreliable data to demonstrate that the amount of refrigerantsent for destruction corresponds with the amount ofrefrigerant purged. Records must include ALL of thefollowing :
• Flow rate;• Quantity or concentration of the refrigerant in the
vent stream;• Periods of purge flow;• Identification of the facility and a contact person,
including the address and telephone number;• General description of the refrigeration system,
focusing on aspects of the system relevant to thepurging of refrigerant and subsequent destruction;
• Description of the methods used to determine thequantity of refrigerant sent for destruction and typeof records that are being kept by the facility;
• Frequency of monitoring and data-recording; and•
G-6
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Do I need to maintain records andsubmit information every time a leakis found and repaired?
No, the law does not require recordkeeping forthe following scenarios:
• • If you are below the trigger rate, you donot need to maintain or submit records(except the normal servicing recordsrequired by the original refrigerantrecycling regulations).
• • If you repair a leak within 30 or 120 days(if applicable) of discovery, you arerequired to perform verification tests butare not required to submit records.
If you are above the trigger rate and requirean extension, you must maintain and submitrecords.
Do I always need to maintainrecords and submit information toretrofit or retire industrial processrefrigeration systems?
Yes and no. If you can retrofit or retire the affectedsystem within a 12-month period, records must bemaintained, but information does not need to besubmitted to EPA. In this case, the owners oroperators must develop a 12-month retrofit orretirement plan within 30 days of discovering aleak rate higher than 35 percent. The plan, or alegible copy of the plan, must be kept at the site ofthe leaky system. The original must be availablefor EPA inspection on request. The plan must bedated and all work under the plan must becompleted within a 12-month period of the plan'sdate. If more than a 12-month period is necessarythere will be additional recordkeeping andreporting requirements.
How long must I keep the records? Three years.
Am I allowed to update a pre-existing retrofit or retirement plan ifit was developed in advance of mydiscovering a leak rate above thetrigger rate?
Yes.
If I have submitted informationindicating that my company wouldretrofit a leaky industrial processrefrigeration system, but the leak
You are not required to retrofit or replace the affectedsystem if second efforts to repair the same leaks thatwere subject to the first repair efforts are successfullycompleted within the 30- or 120- day period. Youmust notify EPA within 30 days of the successful
G-7
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
was successfully repaired during asecond repair effort, what should Ido?
follow-up verification test .
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Will EPA notify me of theacceptance or denial of a request foradditional time to retrofit or retireour industrial process refrigerationsystem?
The answer depends on why additional time wasrequested. EPA will notify the owner or operatorwithin 60 days:
• • If additional time was requested because ofdelays caused by other federal, state, orlocal regulations; or
• If an acceptable alternative refrigerant witha lower ozone-depleting potential is notavailable.
The extension will be considered granted withoutnotification from EPA when ALL the followingcriteria are met:
1. Additional time is requested because the newor the retrofitted industrial processrefrigeration system is custom-built; and
2. The supplier of the industrial processrefrigeration system, or one or more of itscrucial components, has quoted a deliverytime of more than 30 weeks from when theorder was placed; and
3. The owner or operator notifies EPA within sixmonths of the 30-day period following theoriginal discovery of a leak rate higher than 35percent; and
4. The owner or operator maintains adequaterecords to allow a determination that thecriteria are met.
In those cases where more than two years areneeded and a timely request is made, the request isconsidered granted unless EPA objects to therequest within 30 days.
G-8
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
H. SYSTEM MOTHBALLING
G-9
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
H. SYSTEM MOTHBALLING
Important Note:
System mothballing requires therefrigerant to be removed from thesystem to at least atmospheric pressure.If the owner or operator intends to makerepairs to the system that requireopening the system, the refrigerantmust be removed to the requiredevacuation levels for that refrigerantbefore the system is opened.
System mothballing, for the purposes of theseamendments, is the intentional shutdown of arefrigeration system for an extended period of time,where the refrigerant has been evacuated from thesystem to at least atmospheric pressure.
These amendments recognize that when a refrigerationsystem is in a mothballed condition, refrigerant leaks thatexisted when the system was operating have effectivelybeen stopped because the system has been evacuated.Therefore, the amendments allow the time-relatedrequirements for repairing, retrofitting, or retiring aleaking system to be temporarily suspended while thesystem is mothballed. The time-related requirementsresume on the day the system is brought back on line andis no longer considered mothballed. Leak repairsfollowing mothballing on industrial process refrigerationsystems are still subject to initial and follow-up verificationtests.
Applicability
When a system is mothballed, the time suspensions areavailable for all types of systems, including commercial,industrial process, and any other systems containingmore than 50 pounds of refrigerant. Time suspensionsunder system mothballing apply to all time-relatedrequirements for repairing leaks or replacing, retrofitting,or retiring a system, including time extensions that maybe allowed in specific circumstances for industrial processrefrigeration systems.
Example of System Mothballing
If a comfort-cooling system with over 50 pounds ofrefrigerant has a leak rate of more than 15 percent per 12-month period, the leak or leaks must be repaired within30 days of discovery or the system must be retrofitted orretired within a 12-month period. However, if afterdiscovery of the exceedance of the leak rate, the owner ofthe system voluntarily mothballs the system for a period
H-1
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
of time, the requirement to repair leaks or retrofit orretire the system is suspended for that same time period.For example, if the system operated for five days afterdiscovery of the exceedance of the leak rate and then wasshut down and mothballed for two months, when thesystem returned to operating, the owner would still have25 days to either repair the leaks or develop a 12-monthretrofit or retirement plan.
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Does mothballing mean I just shutdown my system and don’t use itfor a while?
No. There is an additional requirement that therefrigerant must be evacuated to at least atmosphericpressure. This ensures that there is practically nopotential for refrigerant to escape from thesystem while it is down.
Am I allowed to conduct leakrepairs on a system that ismothballed? How long do I haveto conduct these repairs?
Yes, repairs may be conducted while a system ismothballed, and there is no time limit to make therepairs. If the system must be opened to conduct therepairs, the refrigerant must be removed to therequired evacuation levels first. Also, for industrialprocess refrigeration systems, applicableverification tests on the leak repairs must beconducted.
Do I have to report to EPA if I’mtemporarily mothballing a systemthat’s leaking above the triggerrate?
No, system mothballing does not require a report toEPA. However, the owner or operator will needto report to EPA if the decision to temporarilymothball a system results in delaying anestimated completion date that has previouslybeen submitted to EPA for repairing, retrofittingor retiring the system.
Suppose I write up a 12-monthretrofit plan within 30 days ofdiscovering an excessive leak rateon a system, and, during that 12-month period, I mothball thesystem for a period of threemonths. When must the retrofitbe completed?
If the system was mothballed for three months andno other time extensions apply, the retrofit must becompleted within 15 months of the plan’s date. If aplan has been submitted to EPA, then you mustnotify EPA of the extension of the completion date.
H-2
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Is the deadline for verificationtesting suspended while a systemis mothballed? For example, if Ihave an industrial processrefrigeration system with a leakrate above the trigger rate, and Ifix the leaks while the system ismothballed, may I continue tokeep the system mothballed forfour more months withoutperforming verification tests?
Yes. All deadlines are suspended duringmothballing. In the example you have given,initial verification tests could be performed at anytime before bringing the system on-line. Follow-up verification tests are not required, and usuallyare not allowed, while the system is mothballed.If the repairs fail initial verification tests, you areallowed to continue your repair efforts while thesystem is still mothballed. However, the repairsmust pass initial verification tests before thesystem is brought on-line, unless you plan toretrofit or retire the system. When you bring thesystem out of a mothballed state, the deadline forperforming follow-up verification tests wouldbegin. In the example you have given, you wouldhave up to 30 days to perform those tests.
Please remember that, if you have evacuated thesystem only to atmospheric pressure duringmothballing, a deeper vacuum will generally berequired before you open the mothballed systemto perform repairs.
H-3
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
I. OIL CHANGES
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
I. OIL CHANGES
Why are we talking about oilchanges? That has nothing to dowith leak repair!
Maximum allowable pressure:
5 psig
NOTE: Changing oil at higherthan 5 psig is considered a violationof the prohibition againstknowingly venting a refrigerant.
NOTE: The refrigerant recyclingamendments generally do notpermit the use of nitrogen topressurize low pressure systems orreceivers.
EPA’s recent refrigerant recycling amendments dealwith leak repair. However, they also addressprocedures to minimize emissions of refrigerantduring oil changes. Many companies and technicianshave been interested in this topic, so it is discussedhere.
The oil in a refrigeration system may contain largeamounts of refrigerant. EPA requires a reduction inpressure prior to an oil change so that the bulk of therefrigerant is recovered. The maximum pressure allowedis 5 psig. This greatly reduces refrigerant emissions whilestill allowing a slight positive pressure to force the oilfrom the compressor.
There are two acceptable procedures to assure recoveryof refrigerant:
1. Evacuate (or pressurize) the refrigeration system,or isolated portion, to a pressure no higher than 5psig and then remove the oil; or
2. Drain the oil into a system receiver to beevacuated (or pressurized) to a pressure no higherthan 5 psig.
These procedures minimize the loss of refrigerant from:a) the oil, and b) the interior of the refrigeration system asthe oil comes out. EPA allows a slight positive pressureto help expel the oil.
I-1
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
J. GLOSSARY
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
J. GLOSSARY
The glossary provides important terms used in thisguidance.
Appliance Any device that contains and uses a class I or class IIsubstance as a refrigerant and is used for household,commercial, or industrial purposes, including any airconditioner, refrigerator, chiller, or freezer. Essentiallyany sort of cooling equipment that uses a class I orclass II substance as a refrigerant is an “appliance.”
Class I refrigerant Most Class I substances are usuallychlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). A complete listing ofclass I substances can be found at 40 CFR Part 82,Subpart A, Appendix A.
Class II refrigerant Class II substances are hydrochlorofluorocarbons(HCFCs). A complete listing of class II substances canbe found at 40 CFR Part 82, Subpart A, Appendix B.
Commercial refrigeration Refrigeration appliances utilized in the retail food andcold storage warehouse sectors. Retail food includesthe refrigeration equipment found in supermarkets,convenience stores, restaurants, and other food serviceestablishments. Cold storage includes the equipmentused to store meat, produce, dairy products, and otherperishable goods.
Critical component A component without which an industrial processrefrigeration system will not function, will be unsafe inits intended environment, and/or will be subject tofailures that would cause the industrial process servedby the system to be unsafe.
Custom-built The system or any of its critical components cannot bepurchased and/or installed without being uniquelydesigned, fabricated, and/or assembled to satisfy aspecific set of industrial process conditions.
J-1
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
Follow-up verification test Those tests that involve checking the repairs within 30days of returning the system to normal operatingcharacteristics or conditions. Follow-up verificationtests for equipment from which the refrigerant chargehas been evacuated means a test conducted after thesystem or portion of the system has resumed operationat normal operating characteristics or conditions oftemperature and pressure, except in cases where soundprofessional judgment dictates that these tests will bemore meaningful if performed prior to the return tonormal operating characteristics or conditions. Afollow-up verification test for a system that has notbeen evacuated means a reverification test conductedafter the initial verification test and usually within 30days of normal operating conditions. Where a system isnot evacuated, it is only necessary to conclude anyrequired changes in pressure, temperature, or otherconditions to return the system to normal operatingcharacteristics or conditions.
Full charge The amount of refrigerant required for normal operatingcharacteristics or conditions of industrial processrefrigeration systems and certain federally-ownedappliances as determined using one or a combination ofthe following four methods:
1. Using the system manufacturer’s determinationof the correct full charge for the system;
2. Determining the full charge by appropriatecalculations based on component sizes, densityof refrigerant, volume of piping, and all relevantconsiderations;
3. Using actual measurements of the amount ofrefrigerant added or evacuated from an industrialprocess refrigeration system; and/or
4. Using an established range based on the bestavailable data, regarding the normal operatingcharacteristics and conditions for the system,where the midpoint of the range will serve as thefull charge and where records are maintained inaccordance with 40 CFR 82.166 (q).
J-2
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
Industrial process refrigeration Complex, customized systems used in the chemical,pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and manufacturingindustries. These systems are directly linked to theindustrial process. This sector also includes industrialice machines, appliances used directly in the generationof electricity, and ice rinks. Where one appliance isused for both industrial process refrigeration and otherapplications, it will be considered an industrial processrefrigeration system if 50 percent or more of itsoperating capacity is used for industrial processrefrigeration.
Industrial process shutdown An industrial process or facility temporarily ceases tooperate or manufacture whatever is being produced atthe facility.
Initial verification test Those leak tests that are conducted as soon aspracticable after the repair is completed. If the systemor isolated portion is evacuated, it means a testconducted prior to replacing of the full refrigerantcharge and before the system or portion of the systemhas reached operation at normal operatingcharacteristics or conditions of temperature andpressure. An initial verification test conducted withoutthe evacuation of the refrigerant charge means a testconducted as soon as practicable after the completion ofthe repair work.
Normal operating characteristicsor conditions
Temperatures, pressures, fluid flows, speeds, and othercharacteristics that would normally be expected for agiven process load and ambient condition duringoperation. Normal operating characteristics orconditions are marked by the absence of atypicalconditions affecting the operation of the refrigerationsystem.
Opening Any service, maintenance, or repair on an appliancethat would release class I or class II refrigerant from theappliance to the atmosphere unless the refrigerant wererecovered previously from the appliance. Connectingand disconnecting hoses and gauges to and from theappliance to measure pressures within the applianceand to add refrigerant to or recover refrigerant from theappliance shall not be considered “opening.”
J-3
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
Reclaim refrigerant Reprocess refrigerant to at least the purity specified inappendix A to 40 CFR part 82, subpart F (based onARI Standard 700-1993, Specifications forFluorocarbon and Other Refrigerants) and verify thispurity using the analytical methodology prescribed inappendix A. In general, reclamation involves the use ofprocesses of procedures available only at a reprocessingor manufacturing facility.
Recover refrigerant To remove refrigerant in any condition from anappliance without necessarily testing or processing it inany way.
Refrigerant circuit The parts of an appliance that are normally connectedto each other (or are separated only by internal valves)and are designed to contain refrigerant.
Sound professional judgment A decision-making process that uses a combination oflogic and operational experience, with methods ofcalculation that are practical, based on training,experience, and education.
Suitable replacement refrigerant A refrigerant acceptable under section 612(c) of theClean Air Act Amendments of 1990 and all regulationspromulgated under that section, and compatible withother materials which it may come into contact. TheSNAP-approved refrigerant must also be able toachieve the temperatures required for the affectedindustrial process in a technically feasible manner.
NOTE: The Significant New Alternatives Policy(SNAP) program implements section 612 of theamended Clean Air Act of 1990. SNAP requires EPAto evaluate substitutes for ozone-depleting substancesand disapprove the use of unacceptable substitutes.SNAP generates lists of acceptable and unacceptablesubstitutes for each of the major industrial use sectors.
System mothballing Intentional shutdown of a refrigeration systemundertaken for an extended period of time by theowners or operators of that facility, where therefrigerant has been evacuated from the appliance, orthe affected isolated section of the appliance, at least toatmospheric pressure.
J-4
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
Technician Any person who performs maintenance, service, orrepair that could be reasonably expected to release classI or class II refrigerants from appliances, except forMVACs, into the atmosphere. Technician also meansany person who performs disposal of appliances, exceptfor small appliances, MVACs, and MVAC-likeappliances, that could be reasonably expected to releaseclass I or class II refrigerants from the appliances intothe atmosphere. Performing maintenance, service, orrepair, or disposal could be reasonably expected torelease refrigerants only if the activity is reasonablyexpected to violate the integrity of the refrigerantcircuit. Such activity includes attaching and detachinghoses and gauges to and from the appliance to add orremove refrigerant or to measure pressure and addingrefrigerant to and removing refrigerant from theappliance. Activities such as painting the appliance,rewiring an external electrical circuit, replacinginsulation on a length of pipe, or tightening nuts andbolts on the appliance are not reasonably expected toviolate the integrity of the refrigerant circuit.Performing maintenance, service, repair, or disposal ofappliances that have been evacuated pursuant to 40CFR 82.156 could not be reasonably expected torelease refrigerants from the appliance unless themaintenance, service, or repair consists of addingrefrigerant to the appliance. Technician includes but isnot limited to installers, contractor employees, in-houseservice personnel, and in some cases, owners oroperators.
J-5
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
K. REFERENCES
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
K. REFERENCES
STRATOSPHERIC OZONE INFORMATION HOTLINE: 800-296-1996
The hotline is open between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Eastern time.
STRATOSPHERIC PROTECTION DIVISION’S INTERNET HOME PAGE:
HTTP:\\WWW.EPA.GOV\DOCS\OZONE\INDEX.HTML
STRATOSPHERIC OZONE PROTECTION RULEMAKING SUMMARY
Section 608 - National Recycling Program58 FR 28660 (5/14/93)
I. Technical Amendments to the National Recycling Program: FR 42950 (8/19/94)
A. Amends the final rule by making clarifications and makingtechnical corrections.
II. Technician Certification Amendment to the National RecyclingProgram: FR 55912 (11/09/94)
A. Establishes the process by which EPA can review and approvevoluntary technician certification programs that apply by December9, 1994 to be “grandfathered.”
B. Clarifies the scope of the technician certification requirement andprovides a limited exemption from certification for apprentices.
Section 612 - Significant New Alternatives Policy59 FR 13044 (3/18/94)
Establishes a process for continuing review of substitutes to determine theiracceptability and provides a petition process to add and delete substancesfrom published lists. Includes initial lists of acceptable and unacceptablesubstitutes.
STRATOSPHERIC OZONE PROTECTION FINAL RULE SUMMARY
EPA-430-f-93-010
A fact sheet that provides an overview of the refrigerant recyclingrequirements of section 608 of the Clean Air Act, 1990, as amended, includingfinal regulations published on May 14, 1993 (58 FR 28660) and the prohibitionon venting that became effective on July 1, 1992.
NOTE: Additional fact sheets on individual rules are also available throughthe Hotline .
K-1
EPA 300-B-95-010
October 1995
EPA APPLICABILITY DETERMINATIONS
Guidance prepared by the regulatory agency at the request of an outside partyregarding the applicability of a regulation to a specific facility/unit/process.Applicability determinations are made available through either theTechnology Transfer Network (TTN) or the Stratospheric Ozone InformationHotline. The TTN can be accessed via computer modem at (919) 541-5742; formore information regarding the TTN, call (919) 541-5384 between 1:00 p.m.and 5:00 p.m. Eastern time.
K-2