What gas is used to test NH3 systems?

The use of nitrogen (N2) to test ammonia (NH3) systems is based on several important factors. Nitrogen is an inert gas, which means it does not react chemically with ammonia. This property is essential during testing because it prevents any unwanted chemical reactions that could compromise the integrity of the ammonia system or create safety hazards.

Testing NH3 systems with nitrogen helps to verify the integrity of the piping and components by pressurizing the system without introducing a reactive gas. Additionally, nitrogen has a high availability and is cost-effective, making it a practical choice for leak testing.

In many cases, the testing involves pressurizing the ammonia system with nitrogen and then monitoring for any pressure drops that would indicate a leak. By using N2, the pressure test can be conducted safely, as nitrogen does not pose the same risks as other gases might, particularly in the presence of ammonia. This makes nitrogen the preferred choice for ensuring the reliability and safety of ammonia refrigeration systems.