EPA Section 608 Universal Certification ExamType II (High-Pressure Appliances)Medium
A technician is preparing to recover refrigerant from a high-pressure system. What is the MOST important safety precaution to take regarding the recovery cylinder itself?
- AEnsure the cylinder is painted a specific color (e.g., yellow top).
- BVerify the cylinder's service pressure rating is appropriate for the refrigerant.
- CMake sure the cylinder is filled to exactly 50% capacity before recovery.
- DCheck that the cylinder has an open-ended relief valve.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Verify the cylinder's service pressure rating is appropriate for the refrigerant.
It is crucial to ensure the recovery cylinder's service pressure rating (MAWP - Maximum Allowable Working Pressure) is equal to or greater than the pressure of the refrigerant being recovered, especially high-pressure refrigerants, to prevent rupture.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While color coding is standard for identification, it's not the 'most important' safety precaution regarding pressure integrity.
- C. The fill limit is 80% by weight, not 50%, and this is about fill level, not the cylinder's inherent pressure rating.
- D. Recovery cylinders typically have pressure relief valves, but they are designed to open at a specific pressure, not be 'open-ended,' which would allow refrigerant to escape.
Recovery Cylinder Safety
Essential precautions and checks related to the safe handling and use of refrigerant recovery cylinders.
- Match MAWP to refrigerant.
- Do not overfill (80% rule).
- Inspect for damage.
- Use proper color-coded cylinders.
Memory trick: Cylinder safety: 'Match the Pressure' to prevent a dangerous burst!