TIF 5650A User Manual [en, de, es, fr]

AUTOMATIC HALOGEN
HFC/CFC/HCFC
LEAK DETECTORS

Owner’s Manual

Covers Leak Detector Models:
TIF5050A- Automatic Halogen Leak Detector
TIF5550A- Pump Style Automatic Halogen Leak Detector
TIF5650A- Pump Style Automatic Halogen Leak Detector

with LED Leak Intensity Indicators

TIF5750A- Super Scanner Halogen Leak Detector with

LED Leak Intensity Indicators

ALL MODELS ARE:

&

DESIGN CERTIFIED BY

MET LABORATORIES, INC. TO MEET

SAE J1627 FOR R134a, R12 AND R22.

CLASS I DIVISION 2 GROUPS A, B, C & D HAZARDOUS
LOCATIONS HANDHELD GAS DETECTOR CLASSIFIED
BY UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES, INC.® AS TO
FIRE ELECTRICAL SHOCK AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS
ONLY. READ OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DE-ENERGIZE UNIT BEFORE REPLACING
SENSING TIP OR SERVICING UNIT. USE ONLY WITH

1.5V ALKALINE BATTERIES SIZE C.

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S

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I

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67X1

General Description....................................................................2

Features..................................................................................... 2

Parts & Controls ....................................................................... 3

Operating Instructions .............................................................. 4

Operating Tips........................................................................... 6

Applications............................................................................... 7

Maintenance.............................................................................. 8

Troubleshooting......................................................................... 9

Replacement Parts.................................................................... 10

Specifications ........................................................................... 10

Warranty.................................................................................... 11

ESPAÑOL ..................................................................................11

FRANÇAIS .................................................................................19

DEUTSCH ..................................................................................26

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1

This manual contains operating instructions for four models. Basic opera­tion of all units is the same. Individual model features and specific operat­ing characteristics are noted within the text as applicable.

Refer to the packaging or unit labels for identification of your model. Your
new unit has been specifically designed to meet both current and future
leak detection needs by providing you with the ability to detect a multitude
of refrigerants. See the Applications section on page 7 for more detailed
information on detectable compounds.

Just turn the unit on and begin searching for leaks. Acomputer-like
beeping signal will increase in frequency as the leak source is approached.
In situations where the area is heavily contaminated with gas the unit can
be adjusted to the contaminated atmosphere to prevent misleading
readings.

For best results please read this manual carefully before attempting to
operate the unit.

All models:

• Detects ALL Halogenated Refrigerants

• Long flexible stainless probe reaches all areas

• Enhanced electronic circuitry

• Constant power indication

• Rapid warm up

• Cordless and Portable, operates on 2 "C"-cell batteries

• Finds leaks in contaminated atmospheres

• Super sensitive, responds to minute traces of halogen gases

• Carrying case included

• One Year Warranty

• Made in USA

Additional Model 5550A features:

• High efficiency pump reduces response and clearing times

• Coil cord probe handle increase flexibility

Additional Model 5650A features:

• LED Leak Intensity Indicators show relative leak size.

• High efficiency pump reduces response and clearing times

• Coil cord probe handle increases flexibility

• Reset button in probe handle

Additional Model 5750A features:

• Exclusive SCAN mode increases sensitivity and quickens leak checking

• LED Leak Intensity Indicators show relative leak size

• High efficiency pump reduces response and clearing times

• Coil cord probe handle increases flexibility

• Reset button in probe handle

GENERAL INFORMATION

FEATURES

2

PARTS AND CONTROLS

1. Sensing Tip

2. Tip Protector

3. Power Switch

4. Power Indicator

5. Flexible Probe

6. Pump Handle

7. Coil Cord

8. LED Leak Indicators

9. Reset Button

1. Punta sensora

2. Protector de punta

3. Interruptor de energía

4. Indicador de energía

5. Sonda flexible

6. Mango de bomba

7. Cordón de espiral

8. Indicador de fuga LED

9. Botón de reajuste

1. Tête de détection

2. Protection de la tête

3. Interrupteur d’alimentation

4. Indicateur d’alimentation

5. Sonde flexible

6. Manche de la pompe

7. Cordon en spirale

8. Indicateurs de fuite DEL

9. Bouton de remise à zéro

1. Sondenspitze

2. Spitzenschutzeinrichtung

3. Betriebsschalter

4. Betriebsanzeige

5. Flexible Sonde

6. Pumpengriff

7. Spiralkabel

8. LED-Leckageanzeige

9. Rükstelltaste

ESPAÑOL FRANÇAIS DEUTSCH

3

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

4

Automatic Calibration

The leak detector models covered by this manual are all equipped with spe­cial automatic circuitry. A good understanding of how this circuitry works will
enable you to take full advantage of this feature and avoid misuse.

The automatic calibration feature works like this: Whatever level of gas sur­rounds the tip when the unit is turned on, or reset, is taken as zero. Only a
greater concentration of gas will be indicated. If there is no gas around the tip
when the unit is turned on, or reset, the unit is set at its maximum sensitivity
and will indicate the presence of any halogen. However, if, for example, there
is a 100 ppm concentration around the tip at turn on, or reset, only a concen­tration above 100 ppm will be indicated.

The units may be further "reset" or automatically 're-calibrated', to ambient
concentrations at any point. If an alarm occurs before a leak is pinpointed, the
units can be reset, or re-calibrated', to ignore this level; allowing you to
approach the source of the leak (which creates a larger concentration) more
closely. Follow the instructions in the Operating Tips section on page 6 to
reset, or re-calibrate, your particular model.

The automatic calibration feature makes it possible for you to ignore ambient
concentrations of gas and pinpoint leaks much more easily. For best results
turn the unit on in fresh air and then move towards the suspected leak area.
Reset as often as necessary to pinpoint the exact location of the leak.

NOTE: Because of this automatic feature, if the probe is placed in front of an
open refrigerant cylinder, and the unit is switched on, a leak may NOT be indi­cated. This occurs because the level at the tip, at turn on, is taken as zero;
only a concentration above the level at the cylinder would be indicated.

FOR MODEL 5750A ONLY:

Model 5750A Halogen Leak Detector offers a unique Scan mode feature in
addition to the NORMAL (ON) operation mode. By using the Scan Mode a
system can be checked for leaks with a few quick passes of the probe.
Scanning will show where a region of the system is leaking. The exact leak
point can then be located by switching to the NORMAL (ON) mode of opera­tion. This "double-barreled" approach to leak finding is an enormous time
saver.

How to Use the Scan Mode:

Switch on the unit to the Scan Mode by moving the Power Switch to the left.
The beeping rate (in fresh air) will quicken compared to the NORMAL (ON)
mode as the instrument automatically adjusts for supersensitivity. When in the
scan mode always move the probe in a constant motion
over the suspected area, keeping the probe conveniently close to the pipe,

joint etc.... Two to three inches per second is a suitable scan rate.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

5

This mode should be used to initially find a leak. Upon receiving an alarm (a
rapid increase in signal) the leak can be more precisely located by switching
to NORMAL (ON) mode (Right hand switch position). The beeping rate (in
fresh air) will return to its normal, slower rate. Follow the instructions for leak
detection as described in the next section.

OPERATION (ALL MODELS):

1. Turn unit on by moving the power switch to the "ON" position.

2. The unit will begin to beep at a slow steady rate. Allow the unit to
stabilize for five or six beeps and then begin searching for leaks.

3. MODEL 5750A ONLY: Begin leak checking in the SCAN mode. Switch

to NORMAL (ON) sensitivity if needed as described above.

Leak Detection Techniques
NOTE: On Automotive A/C Systems leak test with the engine not in

operation.

1. The air conditioning or refrigeration system should be charged with
sufficient refrigerant to have a gauge pressure of at least 340 kPa
(50 psi) when not in operation. At temperatures below 15° C (59° F),
leaks may not be measurable, since this pressure may not be reached.

2. Take care not to contaminate the detector probe tip if the part being
tested is contaminated. If the part is particularly dirty, or condensate
(moisture) is present it should be wiped off with a dry shop towel or
blown off with shop air. No cleaners or solvents should be used,
since the detector may be sensitive to their ingredients.

3. Visually trace the entire refrigerant system, and look for signs of air
conditioning lubricant leakage, damage, and corrosion on all lines,
hoses, and components. Each questionable area should be carefully
checked with the detector probe, as well as all fittings, hose to line
couplings, refrigerant controls, service ports with caps in place,
brazed or welded areas, and areas around attachment points and
hold-downs on lines and components.

4. Always follow the refrigerant system around in a continuous path so
that no areas of potential leaks are missed. If a leak is found, always
continue to test the remainder of the system.

5. At each area checked, the probe should be moved around the
location, at a rate no more than 25 to 50 mm/second (1-2 in/second),
and no more than 5 mm (1/4 in) from the surface, completely around
the position. Slower and closer movement of the probe greatly
improves the likelihood of finding a leak (see Fig. 2, below). Any

increase in beep rate is indicative of a leak.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

6. An apparent leak shall be verified at least once as follows­a) Blow shop air into the area of the suspected leak, if necessary and repeat

the check of the area. In cases of very large leaks, blowing out the area with
shop air often helps locate the exact position of the leak

b) First move the probe to fresh air and reset. Then hold the probe tip as close

as possible to the indicated leak source and slowly move around it until the
leak is confirmed. 5750A ONLY: Switch back to NORMAL (ON) mode for
reduced sensitivity if unable to pinpoint the leak.

Automotive A/C Systems only -

7. Leak testing of the evaporator core while in the air conditioning module shall be

accomplished by turning the air conditioning blower on high for a period of 15
seconds minimum, shutting it off, then waiting for the refrigerant to accumulate
in the case for 10 minutes.
After such time, insert the leak detector probe into the blower resistor block or
condensate drain hole, if no water is present, or into the closest opening in the
heating/ventilation/air conditioning case to the evaporator such as the heater
duct or a vent duct. If the detector alarms a leak apparently has been found.

All Systems -

8. Following any service to the refrigerant system and any other service which dis-

turbs the refrigerant system, a leak test of the repair and of the service ports of
the refrigerant system should be done

1 .To reset, or automatically re-calibrate, you unit as described on page 4 follow

the instruction below for you particular model:

2. In areas that are heavily contaminated with gas the unit may be reset to block

out ambient contamination and pinpoint the leak.
The probe should not be moved while the unit is being reset. The unit can be
reset as many times as necessary to pinpoint the leak

3. In windy areas even a large leak can be extremely difficult to find because the

escaping gas is rapidly carried away from the leak source. Under these condi­tions, it is often necessary to shield the potential leak area.

4. In situations where large leaks mask the presence of very small leaks the larger

leaks must be located and repaired first. Finding the small leaks will then
become a much easier task.

5. Be aware that the detector may alarm if the probe tip comes in contact with

moisture and/or solvents.Therefore avoid contact with these when leak checking.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATING TIPS

6

5050A Switch the unit OFF, and back ON again
5550A Switch the unit OFF, and back ON again
5650A Depress the Blue RESET button on probe handle
5750A Depress the Blue RESET button on probe handle

6. Models 5550A, 5650A and 5750A may be used with either one hand or two.
To operate with one hand, simple straighten the flexible probe and leave it
attached to the case body. To access more difficult to reach areas, detach the
probe from the case and hold the probe with your other hand; the benefits of
the 36" coiled cord are now employed.

5750A ONLY

7. The SCAN mode should be used to initially find a leak, switching to the
NORMAL (ON) mode will allow estimation of leak size; a leak which is unde­tectable in NORMAL (ON) mode is less than 1/2.oz.per year and may not need
repair. If you have difficulty finding leaks in NORMAL(ON) mode, switch to the
SCAN mode to enhance sensitivity. Bear in mind that the SCAN mode provides
Super-sensitivity. False sianals may occur if the probe is moved very rapidly
(i.e. 2-3 feet per second).If this occurs it should be of no concern since this
type of movement is not beneficial in leak detecting.

All of the Leak Detectors covered by this manual may be used to:

• Detect refrigerant gas leaks in Air Conditioning or
Refriqeration systems and storage/recover containers
These detectors will respond to ALL halogenatedI (contains
Chlorine or Fluorine) refrigerants. This includes, but is not
limited to:

CFCs e.g. R12, R11, R500, R503 etc...
HCFCs e.g. R22, R123, R124, R502 etc...
HFCs e.g. R134a, R404a, R125 etc...
Blends such as AZ-50, HP62, MP39 etc...

• Detect Ethylene Oxide gas leaks in hospital sterilizing
equipment (detects halogenated propellant)

• Detect SF

6 in high voltage circuit breakers

• Detect most gases that contain Chlorine, Fluorine and
Bromine (halogen gases) .

• Detect cleaning agents used in dry cleaning applications
such as perchloroethylene.

• Detect Halon gases in fire extinguishing systems

OPERATING TIPS

APPLICATIONS

7

8

MAINTENANCE

Negative Lead

Hilo negativo
Borne neegative
negative Meßleitung

Positive Lead

Hilo positivo
Borne positive
positive Meßleitung

Proper maintenance of your Leak Detector is very important. Carefully following
the instructions, outlined below, will reduce performance problems and increase
the life expectancy of the unit.

WARNING: TURN OFF UNIT BEFORE REPLACING THE SENSING TIP.

FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN A MILD ELECTRICAL SHOCK!

• Keep the sensing tip clean: Prevent dust, moisture and grease build-up by
utilizing the provided tip protector. Never use the unit without the protector in
place.

Before using the unit always inspect the tip and protector to see that they are free
of dirt and/or grease. To clean:

1. Remove protector by grasping and pulling off tip.

2. Clean protector with shop towel and/or compressed air.

3. If the Tip itself is dirty it can be cleaned by unscrewing it and immersing in a

mild solvent, such as alcohol, for a few seconds, and then using compressed
air and/or a shop towel to clean.

NOTE: Never use solvents such as gasoline, turpentine, mineral spirits etc... as
these will leave a detectable residue and desensitize your unit.

• Sensing tip replacement: The tip will eventually wear out and
require replacement. It is difficult to predict exactly when this will
occur since tip longevity is directly related to the conditions and
frequency of use. The tip should be replaced whenever the beep
rate increases in frequency or becomes erratic, even in a clean
pure, air environment.

To replace the tip (Refer to the inset Figures on page 3.)

1. Make sure the unit is in the OFF position.

2. Remove the old tip by unscrewing in a counter-clockwise direction

3. Use the supplied replacement tip, located in the battery compartment, and

screw it on in a clockwise direction until finger tight.

• Batteries affect unit performance. When the selector switch is inthe ON posi­tion the red power indicator light should be on. If the light does not come on,
then 2 new and/or tested size "C" Alkaline batteries should be installed. Batteries
must supply at least 2.2v (under load) to light power indicator and operate unit.

Always checkbattery voltage under load: Remove battery cover and turn unit on
Measure voltage across the batteries as indicated by arrows in the
following diagram.

* Remember that a worn out tip, no matter how clean, is still worn out and
will result in poor unit performance.

** Battery condition can be judged by checking the power indicator light
on the front of the unit. Weak batteries may cause the light to "blink".
Good batteries will result in a steady light.

NOTE: It is best to measure the battery voltage, as indicated in the
maintenance section on page 8, before reaching a conclusion.

TROUBLESHOOTING

9

PROBLEM

Erratic and/or
continuous
beeping signal

Erratic and/or
continuous
beeping signal

Reduced
sensitivity

Reduced
sensitivity

Probe pump

runs but unit

does not beep
Unit will not

detect a
known leak

Unit will not
detect a
known leak

Unit will not
detect a
known leak

Unit will not
detect a
known leak

CAUSE

Dirty tip
or
protector

Low battery
condition

Tip is worn
out

Dirty tip or
protector

Batteries
reversed

Tip is worn
out

Low battery
condition

Turned on in
presence of
a leak

Dirty tip
or Protector

CORRECTION

Replace or *
clean tip
or protector

Check pwr light **
& voltage. Replace
batteries if needed

Replace tip

Replace or clean *
tip or protector

Remove and
correct

Replace tip

Check power light**
& voltage. Replace
batteries if needed

Reset unit in a
clean atmosphere
(see page 6)

Clean or *
Replace tip
or Protector