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Source for N2 for leak check

JHZR2 on Sat July 20, 2013 1:09 PM User is offline

I have a very seldom, and sporadic need for gas to leak check.

Look online, and bottles (which of course need to be re-hydro tested) are over $100.

I may never use a full N2 bottle in my lifetime.

So, what is the best way to go? Systems likely to be R-12 under test. I have a corona discharge leak checker.

Would like to put a tiny bit of R-134a in with N2 into these systems for leak check, then evacuate and fix leaks or proceed. Wouldnt want to waste R-12 just to fill to recover.

But while stocking R134a or some NOS R-12 is one thing, high pressure nitrogen for the long run isnt my desire.

So what's the best way to go? What $ would I be looking at to do it? Seems there is more infrastructure for helium (balloons) than N2 or other gases. But He molecules being very small may be a diffusion issue. Dont want to use CO2 as I dont want to chance it liquifying in the system...

Also dont want to spend >$100 for n2 that Ill likely never use (or end up filling tires with).

Suggestions?

Thanks!

WyrTwister on Thu July 25, 2013 10:47 AM User is offlineView users profile

Quote
Originally posted by: JHZR2
I have a very seldom, and sporadic need for gas to leak check.



Look online, and bottles (which of course need to be re-hydro tested) are over $100.



I may never use a full N2 bottle in my lifetime.



So, what is the best way to go? Systems likely to be R-12 under test. I have a corona discharge leak checker.



Would like to put a tiny bit of R-134a in with N2 into these systems for leak check, then evacuate and fix leaks or proceed. Wouldnt want to waste R-12 just to fill to recover.



But while stocking R134a or some NOS R-12 is one thing, high pressure nitrogen for the long run isnt my desire.



So what's the best way to go? What $ would I be looking at to do it? Seems there is more infrastructure for helium (balloons) than N2 or other gases. But He molecules being very small may be a diffusion issue. Dont want to use CO2 as I dont want to chance it liquifying in the system...



Also dont want to spend >$100 for n2 that Ill likely never use (or end up filling tires with).



Suggestions?



Thanks!


Can not remember the details , but I seem to remember reading on the EchoRenovator forum , of some one using a small tank / bottle & regulator from a paint ball set up ?

I do not do paint ball , so none of it was familiar to me ?

I too would like to know more about using an economical N2 setup . I too am a DIY'er & would probably never be able to justify the $$$ of a N2 system that a full time A/C or HVAC tech would use .

Thanks ,
Wyr
God bless


Mushroombert on Tue August 06, 2013 10:32 AM User is offline

Have you chacked with a local welding supply store? Most will rent a gas bottle by the day, you can use it for what you need and then return it. (Not sure if they will rent a regulator though.)

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