What is the maximum pressure that should be used when leak testing a low-pressure chiller?

The maximum pressure that is recommended for leak testing a low-pressure chiller is 10 psig. This value is significant because low-pressure chillers operate at lower refrigerant pressures, and exceeding this limit can result in damage to components, potential ruptures, or other safety hazards. Testing at 10 psig is adequate to detect leaks effectively without causing undue stress on the system's materials.

Using pressures higher than this could yield false indications of integrity or potentially harm the system. For example, in the case of low-pressure chillers, pressures above this could exceed the design specifications and could lead to unsafe conditions. Therefore, adhering to the 10 psig standard during leak testing is both a best practice and a guideline established by industry standards to ensure the safety and reliability of the equipment during maintenance and troubleshooting.