WARNING: Inhalation of high concentrations of refrigerant vapors is harmful and may
cause heart irregularities, unc onsciousness, or death. Deliberate inhalation
of refrig erant s is extremely dang erous and deat h can occur without warning.
Vapors reduce oxygen available for breathing and are heavier than air.
Decomposition products are hazardous. Liquid contact m ay cause fr ostbit e.
All refrigerant containers, equipment, and hoses are under pressure.
CAUTION: Before operating this unit, please read this manual in its entirety. It is
important that you have a thorough understanding of the procedures
outlined in this manual. Failure to follow these procedures could void all
manufacturer warranties.
BEFORE HANDLING REFRIGERANTS, READ THE MATERIAL SAFETY
CHAPTER 3: FEATURES .......................................................................................................................................... 7
3.1.LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF UNIT FEATURES ...................................................................................................... 7
4.7.PUMP DOWN OPERATIONS ................................................................................................................................ 15
CHAPTER 7: REPLACEMENT PARTS ...................................................................................................................... 19
2
Model 3600 Refrigerant Recovery System
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1. Overview
Congratulations on your purchase of the Bacharach Model 3600 high performance oilless recovery
system. Bacharach has worked hard to m ake the Model 3600 the highest perform ing, most portable and
easiest to use recovery system on the market. We are committed to your complete satisfaction!
Please note that Bacharach requires that a filter be used on the inlet hose c oming from the system being
serviced in order to protect the compressor from particulate.
A standard filter or filter dryer is suggested. The compressor warranty will be voided if it is determined that
a filter was not used during the operation of this equipment.
WARNING: Before starting the 3600 recovery unit, you MUST OPEN the outlet port on the unit
and open the port to the recovery tank. Read the entire operating instruction
manual before use. Failure to open the outlet port will cause permanent damage to
the unit and void the warranty.
WARNING: You must use a DOT recovery cylinder approved for use with R-410A refrigerant.
This recovery system is equipped with a high-pressure shutoff switch set to turn the
unit off at 550 psi. Using any other cylinder may cause the pressure in the recovery
cylinder to exceed the cylinder’s pressure rating.
CAUTION: These instructions are for pers o n n el trained and experienced in the handling of
refrigerants. Unqualified individuals should not attempt to operate this equipment.
Failure to follow proper operating procedures may cause personal injury.
1.2. Specifications
Category Description
Model Model 3600
Description Portable Commercial Oilless Recovery System
Refrigerants R12, R-22, R-134a, R-500, R-502, R-410AHP/MP Blends
Power Source 120V AC 60 Hz
Wattage/Amperes 800 W / 8.0 A max
Compressor ½ HP High Performance Oilless
High Pressure Shutoff 550 psi
Dimensions (H x W x D) 12.0" x 13" x 7.5"
Weight 35 Lbs.
3
Refrigerant Recovery System Model 3600
Refrigerant Recovery Rates Certified per AHRI 740-95 & 740-98
• Designed specifically for the new R-410A blend that has much higher vapor pressures.
• New oilless compressor technology that is QUIETER, FASTER, AND LIGHTER than current
products on the market.
•When used properly, tolerates liquid during vapor recovery operations with no compressor
damage.
• Extremely easy to operate.
• Extra large condensing ensures high recovery rates even on the hottest days.
• Self-purging valve completely purges the condenser and tubing, eliminating cross contamination
when switching between refrigerants.
•Solid state LED status display keeps the operator informed of the operational status of the unit.
The following situations are monitored: High Pressure Shutoff, Recovery Cylinder Full Shutoff (If
option is installed), Automatic Vacuum Shutoff, and System Operating.
• Suction and discharge gauges eliminate the need for a manifold gauge set.
• Inlet and outlet ball valves provide full refrigerant flow and positive shutoff.
• Automatic vacuum shutoff at 13” HG vacuum.
• Automatic high-pressure shutoff at 550 psi.
• Rugged heavy-duty steel construction with epoxy powder coating for long life.
• Options include: Deluxe carrying case to protect the 3600 from damage during transport,
Automatic 80% tank full shutoff.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
4
Model 3600 Refrigerant Recovery System
CHAPTER 2: SAFETY
2.1. General Safety Instructions
NOW YOUR EQUIPMENT
1. K
Read and understand the operation m anual and labels affixed to the unit. Learn its application and
limitations as well as the specific potential hazards of your equipment.
ROUND ALL EQUIPMENT
2. G
This unit is equipped with an approved three pronged grounded power cord and plug. The green wire
is the ground wire and should never be connected to a live terminal.
SE THE PROPER EXTENSION CORD
3. U
Use the following guide for choosing the proper extension cord:
16 gauge cord- maximum length 25 feet
14 gauge cord- maximum length 50 feet
12 gauge cord- maximum length 100 feet
VOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS
4. A
Do not use this unit in damp or wet locations or expose it to rain. Secure unit when working above
floor level. This equipment should be us ed in a location with mechanical ventilation that provides at
least four air c hanges per hour or the equipment s hould be located at least 18 inches above the floor.
This equipment should not be used in the vicinity of spilled or open containers of flammable materials.
ISCONNECT UNIT BEFORE SERVICING
5. D
Electrical shock hazard may be present when the unit is disassembled.
6. A
VOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING
Make sure the system switch is in the OFF position before connecting electrical devices.
7. R
EPAIR DAMAGED PARTS
Do not operate the unit with a defective part. Repair unit to proper operating conditions.
8. U
SE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES
Follow the instructions that accompany all accessories. Improper use of accessories may damage
the equipment or create a hazard.
SE CAUTION WHEN CONNECTING OR DISCONNECTING HOSES
9. U
Improper usage may result in refrigerant burns (frostbite). If a significant refrigerant leak occurs,
proceed immediately to a well ventilated area.
SE THE PROPER RECOVERY CYLINDER RATED FOR USE WITH R-410A
10. U
WARNING: You must use the proper DOT approved recovery cylinder with the Model 3600. This
recovery system is equipped with a high-pressure shutoff switch set to turn the unit off at 550 psi.
Using any other cylinder may cause the pressure in the recovery cylinder to exceed the cylinder’s
pressure rating.
5
Refrigerant Recovery System Model 3600
2.2. Operational Safety
WARNING: Inhalation of high concentrations of refrigerant vapors is harmful and may cause heart
irregularities, unconsciousness, or death. Deliberate inhalation of refrigerants is
extremely dangerous and death may occur without warning. Vapor reduces oxygen
available for breathing and is heavier than air. Decomposition products are
hazardous. Liquid contact can cause frostbite. All refrigerant containers, equipment
and hoses are under high pressure.
• Avoid breathing high concentrations of vapors.
• Use with sufficient ventilation to keep operator exposure below recommended limits, especially in
enclosed and low lying areas.
• Avoid contact of liquid with eyes and prolonged skin exposure.
• Wear safety goggles and protective gloves.
• Do not apply open flame or heat unit above 125°F.
• Do not allow refrigerants to contact open flame. Decomposition will occur.
FIRST AID: If high concentrations of refrigerant vapors are inhaled, immediately remove person(s) to
fresh air. Keep calm. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give
oxygen. Call a doctor. Do not give epinephrine or similar drugs.
EYE: In case of liquid contact, immediately flush eye with water.
Seek medical attention.
SKIN: Flush with water. Treat for frostbite by gently warming the affected area.
CAUTION: All refrigerant hoses, r ecovery tanks, refrigerant lines, the unit, and other vessels containing
refrigerants should be handled at all times as if under high pressure.
6
Model 3600 Refrigerant Recovery System
Opens or closes the
CHAPTER 3: FEATURES
3.1. Location and Description of Uni t Fe a t ures
# Component Description
1 Purge Ball
2 Inlet Port
3 LED Status
4 System
5 Outlet Port
6 Inlet Port Refrigerant hose connection for incoming refrigerant vapors.
7 Outlet Port Refrigerant hose connection for outgoing refrigerant.
8 Outlet
9 Inlet
Umbilical
Compressor
Valve
Ball Valve
Display
Switch
Ball Valve
Pressure
Gauge
Pressure
Gauge
Cord Optional
Accessory
(Not shown)
Circuit
Breaker (Not
shown)
This valve determines
what function the Model
3600 performs. This
valve is UP during
recovery operations
and DOWN for purging
and liquid push-pull
operations.
inlet port. It is pointing
UP (open) for all
recovery operations
and points DOWN for
purging operations.
This valve is also used
to throttle back the
liquid intake when a
knocking sound is
heard.
See the description on
the following page.
When in the ON position, this switch starts the recovery operation by turning the
compressor on.
Opens or closes the outlet port. It points DOWN when it is open and to the left
when CLOSED.
Displays the outlet/discharge pressure.
Displays the inlet/suction pressure of the system being evacuated.
This optional accessory connects to the recovery cylinder overfill sensor and
automatically shuts the unit off when the recovery cylinder reaches the 80% liquid
fill limit.
NOTE: If the Model 3600 is equipped with an 80% shutoff cord, it will not work
unless it is not connected to a DOT recovery cylinder with a compatible level float
switch. If the recovery cylinder does not have a float switch, a shorting cap must
be installed in order to operate the system.
Protects against high amperage. Located on the left side of the machine.
7
Refrigerant Recovery System Model 3600
3.2. LED Display
LED Meaning Explanation
Green
Red
Red Tank Full
Normal Operation Indicates that the power switch is ON and the compressor is
running.
High Pressure
Condition
Indicates that there is a high pressure condition that must be
corrected. The internal high pressure switch activates at 550 psi.
Indicates that the recovery cylinder is full (if the Automatic 80%
Tank Full Shutoff Option is installed).
8
Model 3600 Refrigerant Recovery System
CHAPTER 4: RECOVERY
4.1. Helpful Hints for Recoveri ng R-410A
R-410A has been designated by the EPA as a “very-high-pressure” refrigerant. Because of its higher
vapor pressure, recovering R-410A has some unique challenges. The higher vapor pressure requires
more work from the compressor, resulting in higher temperatures and increased wear on moving
compressor parts.
In order to reduce the affects of these conditions, Bacharach recommends the following:
•Whenever pos sible, cool your recovery tank with ice or water. This keeps the compressor
discharge pressures lower, which will result in faster recovery rates and longer com pressor
life.
•Avoid recovering large amounts of R-410A at one tim e. Allow the recovery unit and cylinder
to cool before starting the next recovery job.
•Always purge the machine completely when switching from R410a and bac k to prevent cr oss
contamination.
Following these simple hints will improve both recovery performance and compressor life.
4.2. Vapor/Liquid Recovery Procedures
Step Description
1 Turn off all electrical or mechanical power to the refrigerant device to be evacuated.
2
Make proper hose connections: Connect refrigerant hoses to recovery cylinder, the unit,
and A/C system as shown in Figure 1. NOTE: You must use an external filter drier in the
suction line in order to meet the conditions of the unit warranty. Caution: If the 80% shutoff
cord is not used, a scale must be used to monitor the refrigerant level in the recovery
cylinder.
NOTE: Although the 3600 was designed to handle liquid slugging, pumping large amounts of
liquid over extended periods of time will reduce the life of the compressor. If large amounts of
liquid are present, it is recommended that you use the liquid push - pull method of recovery
prior to vapor recovery operations. (See Figures 3 & 4).
3
Place the inlet and purge ball valves in the “CLOSED” position and the outlet valve is in
the “OPEN” position. Open the DOT recovery tank liquid valve. (See Figure 2).
4
Turn the system switch to the “ON” posi tion. The LED status display will be green.
5
Regulate the inlet port ball valve when liquid refrigerant is present.
WARNING: A “knocking” sound coming from the compressor indicates too much liquid is
entering the compressor. The inlet ball valve must be regulated as shown in the
shaded region until this knocking sound stops, otherwise compressor damage
could occur. Pumping liquid when the compressor is knocking will damage the
compressor and will reduce the compressor life and will void the compressor
warranty.
9
Refrigerant Recovery System Model 3600
Step Description
6
Monitor the LED status display. The unit will shut off automatically when the proper vacuum
level is achieved and the status display LED will turn off.
LED Description
Green
Red
7
Purge the system by positioning the inlet an d p u rge ball valve in the “PURGE” pos ition
(both pointing DOWN). This should be done with the unit off. If the valves are turned while
the unit is running, the system may shut off either on high-pressure or vacuum. If the unit is
manually or automatically turned off before the evacuation is complete, repeat steps 3-7.
NOTE: If the circuit breaker trips, wait 5 seconds, reset circuit breaker and go to step 3. If
the compressor thermal overload trips, wait 16 to 30 minutes before restarting.
Indicates that the power switch is ON and the compressor is running.
If the green LED is off, this indicates that the unit has shut down because
the system being evacuated has reached 13" HG. (the evacuation is
complete). Check the suction pressure to verify that the system being
evacuated is down to at least 13" HG vacuum. Turn the system switch
to the OFF position. Wait 5 minutes. If the inlet pressure rises above 0
psig. Repeat steps 3-6. If the inlet pressure remains below 0 psig, close
all valves and disconnect the hose from the A/C system.
NOTE: A small amount of inlet pressure may be needed to reset the
vacuum switch, this is normal.
(a) Indicates that there is a high-pressure condition that must be
corrected. Check for restrictions or a full recovery tank. Correct
the problem and turn the system switch OFF to reset the system.
Repeat steps 3-6.
(b) Indicates that the recovery tank is full (if the 80% automatic shutoff
option is installed). Change the recovery tank and repeat steps
3-6.
10
Model 3600 Refrigerant Recovery System
4.3. Liquid/Vapor Recovery Hose Connections
Figure 1. Liquid/Vapor Recovery Hose Connections
Use only approved DOT recovery cylinders. Follow precautions and warnings listed on the cylinder.
If servicing a system with a compressor burn-out, use a high acid type filter drier and do not reuse.
Recovery Mode Storage Mode
Figure 2. Model 3600 Valve Settings for Recovery and Storage Modes
11
Refrigerant Recovery System Model 3600
4.4. Liquid Push-Pull Recovery General Information
Attention: Before attempting the following liquid push-pull recovery operations, please review this page.
It may not be possible to recover liquid refrigerant from some types of refrigeration equipment.
A scale or liquid sight glass can be used to determ ine when all the liquid is recovered. The unit will not pull
a vacuum using the push-pull liquid recovery operation. To finish the recovery operation, you must
proceed to vapor recovery operations.
Guidelines
If any of these conditions are present in the system being evacuated, liquid push-pull operations m ay not
be practical and vapor recovery operations should be performed.
• The equipment contains less than 15 lbs. of refrigerant.
• The equipment is a heat pump or other system with refrigerant flow that would prevent you from
isolating the liquid.
• Equipment has an accumulator between the service ports used in the liquid recovery process.
• Liquid refrigerant migration has occurred and the location of the liquid is unknown.
• The refrigerant tubing design on the equipment does not allow for a solid column of liquid refrigerant
to be formed.
Direct Liquid Recovery Operations
All compressors are designed to compress gases. Norm ally com pressors are not capable of pumping
non-compressible fluids such as liquid refrigerant, however, the 3600 has been designed with a special
head and valves that enable it to handle liquid directly. This feature makes the 3600 easier to use by
minimizing the need to m onitor incoming r efrigerant vapors and reduces com press or failures due to liquid
slugging.
It is important to rem em ber that the 3600 is a compressor and not a liquid pump. When large amounts of
liquid are present, the liquid push-pull m ethod of recovery should be used. Using the 3600 to pump large
amounts of liquid refrigerant over a long period of time will reduce the compressor life.
WARNING: A “ Knocking” sound coming from the c ompressor indicates too much liquid is entering the
compressor. T he inlet ball valve must be regulated as shown in the shaded region until this
knocking sound stops , other wise compressor damage could oc cur . Pumping liquid when the
compressor is knocking will damage the compressor and will reduce the compressor life.
This will void the compressor warranty
A sudden slug of liquid into the compressor may cause a sudden spike in pressure and cause the highpressure safety shutoff switch to shut the com pressor off. If this happens, you must clear the liquid from
the compress or bef ore you can restar t the c om press or. T o prevent this f rom happening, always open the
inlet valve slowly when starting a recovery job. Opening the inlet valve quickly could allow a slug of liquid
to enter the cylinder and cause the high-pressure switch to shut the system down.
.
12
Model 3600 Refrigerant Recovery System
4.5. Liquid Push Pull Recovery Procedures
Liquid push-pull operations are performed by using hot com pressor gas to push liquid refrigerant out
of a system. The purge valve accom plishes this by re-directing the hot compress or gas around the
condenser. See the diagram on top of the unit for hose connections.
Step Description
1
Turn off all electrical or mechanical power to the refrigerant device to be evacuated.
2
Make proper hose connections. Connect the discharge hose from the outlet port to the lowpressure side of the system you are servicing. Connect a hose between the liquid port
(receiver or condenser) on the system being serviced and the liquid valve on the DOT
recovery tank. Connect the inlet hose from the DOT recovery tank vapor valve and the unit’s
inlet port. See Figure 3 for hose connection schematic. NOTE: You must use an external
filter drier in the suction line in order to meet the conditions of the unit warranty. Caution: If the
80% shutoff cord is not used, a scale must be used to monitor the refrigerant level in the
recovery cylinder.
3
Place the inlet and purge valves in the “LIQUID PUSH-PULL” position. This will allow hot
compressor gas to bypass the condenser. OPEN the liquid and vapor valves on the tank,
(See Figure 4)
4
Open the outlet ball valve and the D OT recovery tank vapor and li q u id valves on the
DOT recovery tank.
5
Turn the system switch to the “ON” posi tion. When all liquid refrigerant is recovered, turn
the system switch to the “OFF” position. NOTE: Liquid push-pull operations do not pull a
vacuum on a system. You must perform a vapor recovery operation in order to pull the system
down to the required vacuum level.
6
Monitor the LED status display.
LED Description
Green
SYSTEM ON: The “SYSTEM ON” indicator should be ON during normal
operations.
EVACUATION COMPLETE: Indicates that the unit has shut down because
the system being evacuated has reached 13" HG. (the evacuation is
No LED
complete). During liquid push-pull operations the system will not be pulled
into a vacuum. NOTE: A small amount of inlet pressure might be needed
to reset the vacuum switch, this is normal.
HIGH PRESSURE: Indicates that there is a high pressure condition that
must be corrected. Check for restrictions or a full recovery cylinder. Correct
problem and turn system switch to the OFF position. Repeat steps 3-6.
Red
TANK FULL: Indicates that the recovery cylinder is full (if the 80%
Automatic Tank Full Shutoff Option is installed). Change the recovery
cylinder and repeat steps 3-6.
7
Turn the system switch to the OFF position when all liquid is recovered. The liquid
recovery operation is complete when the scale or optional sight glass indicates no liquid is
being transferred to the recovery cylinder. NOTE: The unit must be manually shut off during
all liquid recovery operations.
8
Proceed to vapor recovery operations to compl ete the recovery operation. If the unit is
manually or automatically turned off before the liquid recovery is complete, repeat steps 3-8.
NOTE: If the circuit breaker trips, wait 10 seconds, reset circuit breaker and go to step 2. If
the compressor thermal overload trips, wait 16 to 30 minutes before restarting.
13
Refrigerant Recovery System Model 3600
4.6. Liquid Push-Pull Hose Connecti ons
Figure 3. Liquid Push Pull Hose Connections
Use only approved DOT recovery cylinders. Follow precautions and warnings listed on the cylinder.
If servicing a system with a compressor burn-out, use a high acid type filter drier and do not reuse.
Liquid Push-Pull Mode Storage Mode
Figure 4. Model 3600 Valve Settings for Push-Pull and Storage Modes
14
Model 3600 Refrigerant Recovery System
4.7. Pump Down Operations
The Model 3600 is equipped with a pump-down purge valve that allows the technician to pump down or
evacuate the 3600 before proceeding to the next recovery operation. This proc edure not only eliminates
cross contam ination, but also conserves r efrigerant. Follow the steps below to ensure your pump down
operation is performed correctly.
Step Description
1 After recovery operations are complete and the system switch is in the OFF position:
FIRST - Place the inlet valve in the PURGE position
SECOND - Place the purge valve in the PURGE position
THIRD - Place the outlet valve in the OPEN position as illustrated below.
It is important to turn the valves in this order to ensure the compressor properly
equalizes.
2 Turn the system switch to the “ON” position. The LED status will be green.
NOTE: If the compressor fails to start, cycle the purge valve from the RECOVERY to PURGE
position to reduce the pressure difference shown on the system’s gauges.
3 Allow the unit to run until it shuts off automatically. The status display will flash “EVACUATION
COMPLETE” indicating that the purge operation is complete.
4 Turn the system switch to the OFF position and turn the outlet valve to the “CLOSE”
During the pump down operation, the 3600’s compressor pulls the entire system and discharge hose into
a vacuum and discharges the gas directly out of the discharge port leaving no more than ¼ ounce of
refrigerant left in the system.
CAUTION! Never turn the purge valve when the unit is operating! Severe damage may occur.
position. Close the inlet and outlet valves on the DOT recovery tank.
Figure 5. Model 3600 Valve Settings for Pump Down Operation
15
Refrigerant Recovery System Model 3600
4.8. DOT Recovery Cylinder Safety
An optional 80% recovery cylinder shutoff cord is available with the Model 3600. If equipped, this cord
connects to the recovery cylinder float switch and will automatically shut the Model 3600 off when the
recovery cylinder becomes 80% full.
When the Model 3600 is equipped with the 80% shutof f cord, Bacharach recom mends that you use this
cord for added safety. If the Model 3600 is not equipped with an 80% shutof f cord, or, if you are using a
recovery cylinder that does not have a float switch, then you must use a scale and the guidelines below to
prevent overfilling of the cylinder.
OTE: THE SHORTING CAP MUST BE USED IN ORDER TO OPERATE THE MODEL 3600WITHOUT THE 80% SHUTOFF
N
CORD ATTACHED TO THE RECOVERY CYLINDER
Bacharach uses and recom mends the Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Institute's (AHRI) guideline K for
the safe filling and handling of used refrigerant. This Publication is available from ARI.
WARNING: You must use a DOT recovery c ylinder approved for us e with R-410A refrigerant.
This recovery system is equipped with a high-pressure shutoff switch set to turn the
unit off at 550 psi. Using any other cylind er may cause the pressure in the recovery
cylinder to exceed the cylinder’s pr essure rating.
The following information provides the safe fill weights for used refrigerant based on the size of the
container and is in accordance with Guideline K.