8 Testing

First the refrigeration circuit is filled with helium to verify that there are no leaks. (Helium is a smaller molecule than the refrigerants, therefore if helium is not leaking through the refrigerant piping circuit, the larger molecule will not either). The fluid circuit is then checked for leaks by pressurizing the tank, pumps and piping with water. If no leaks are present on the refrigerant or fluid circuit, the unit is powered on, and the controller is programmed and all valves are opened. The refrigerant circuit will be placed in a vacuum and pulled to below 500 microns before any refrigerant is added to the circuit. The test stand is then modified to simulate the expected heat load that the chiller will experience when it is out in the field. When the unit is charged with refrigerant and the proper fluid is added to the circuit, it is time to run. The technician starting the equipment up will verify operation of every component on the chiller. Adjustments are made and if the chiller is operational per the specification, then the chiller will receive a data tag that details all of the pertinent information to the installer.