Abstract: A method for testing a non-hydrocarbon refrigerant, such as CFC-12 or HFC-134a, in a closed system for hydrocarbons, HCFC-22 refrigerant and ammonia is provided wherein a sample of the non-hydrocarbon refrigerant is withdrawn from the closed system, the pressure of the sample is measured and a metered portion of the sample is passed through a test apparatus (20) including a testing tube (30), a testing tube holder (40) for supporting the testing tube (30) and outfitted with a vent (48) to the atmosphere, and a pressure gauge (70) for indicating the pressure of the sample withdrawn. A medium (38) for indicating the presence of hydrocarbons in the sample flow passing through the testing tube is deposited on a surface disposed in the testing tube. The presence of undesired HCFC-22 refrigerant in the CFC-12 or HFC-134a is indicated by a higher pressure reading on the pressure gauge (70).

Abstract: An improved vapor compression refrigeration system that has an indicator for detecting the presence of acid contamination in the refrigerant contained in the system. The indicator is permanently or semipermanently installed so that continuous monitoring of the refrigerant for acid is possible. The indicator is located in a portion of the system where the refrigerant is always in a gaseous state. In a preferred embodiment, the indicator is located in a bypass line between the suction and the discharge of the system compressor. The indicator preferably shows the presence of acid by a color change, visible from a point external to the indicator, in an indicator bed in the indicator. The color change may be either permanent or the indicator bed may return to its original color when the acid contamination is no longer present in the refrigerant.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing refrigerant of one type for contamination by refrigerant of another type as would be the case if an air conditioning or refrigeration system charged with a non-chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant received a replenishment charge of a chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant. A sample of the suspected refrigerant mix is exposed to a reagent that will decompose the contaminant refrigerant but not the refrigerant that is proper for the system. The sample is then tested for a product of the decomposition. If the product is present, then one can conclude that the contaminant refrigerant is present.