The use of UV dye to locate leaks is commonplace within the HVAC industry, but those using dye for the first time will want to ensure that there are no dangers or risks when using a dye injection kit.
There are also queries raised as to how beneficial the use of UV dye is within the HVAC industry.
The following is an overview of some of the most commonly asked questions and queries that can arise when engineers use a UV dye injection kit for the first time.
Can UV Dye Be Used to Locate Every Type of Leak?
UV dye is ideal for leaks that can be easily seen. However, if the area of the leak is out of sight, then other methods will need to be used.
How Long Does It Take to Locate a Leak with UV Dye?
The time it takes to locate a leak with the use of UV dye can depend on the size of the application, as well as the size and placement of the leak.
Engineers dealing with smaller applications will find that they’re able to locate the leak in around 30 minutes. However larger applications could take longer.
The location and size of the leak can also affect how long UV dye takes to highlight the leak.
However, the use of UV dye means that the engineer can save time when compared to other approaches, such as bubbles.
What Type of Torch Is Best for UV Dye?
This may seem redundant, as there are many UV torches available, but there are also other torches that carry out a similar role, so those purchasing equipment for the first time may be confused as to what works best.
- Violet Light: This torch is used with green dyes and doesn’t require the use of protective goggles.
- Ultraviolet (UV): Protective glasses are required but work with all coloured dyes.
- Blue Light: Works with green and yellow dyes, yellow inspection glasses required.
Evidently, the best choice is the UV torch, but it’s important to ensure that a blue or violet torch isn’t being sold as a UV torch.
This could occur if a retailer or vendor doesn’t have experience within the HVAC sector.
As such, it’s of the utmost importance that a professional supplier is used when sourcing any form of HVAC equipment, including UV torches.
Those using a UV dye injection kit for the first time may need to purchase a series of tools. It can be more cost-effective to invest in a kit as opposed to purchasing each product separately.
For example, the Complete EZ-Ject Kit comes complete with UV glasses, UV torch, injection kit, dye cartridge and dye complete with a carrying case. Ideal for first-timers.
How Will I Know If UV Dye Has Been Used Before?
When using UV dye, it’s important not to mix different brands together, as it could cause an adverse reaction.
Generally, there will be information recorded as to whether dye has been used in the system before, as well as the type of UV dye used.
If a repair has been carried out before using UV dye, then it’s likely it is still held within the application.
Is UV Dye Only Used for Repairs?
Often, UV dye will be used for repairs, but there are some who use it as a safeguard should a leak occur. There is no problem with this, as UV dye can stay in the system indefinitely.
If there is an application that has been worked on before that no longer has dye in the system, then this could be due to further defects with the application, and you often find that the amount of refrigerant will have also depleted.
Won’t UV Dye Void the Warranty?
Using a professional supplier for UV dye will ensure that you’re not voiding any warranties when carrying out repairs.
However, should you use a UV dye that’s non-approved, there it’s likely that there will be problems when it comes to carrying out a repair effectively.
How Is UV Dye Beneficial?
Trying to find small leaks can take a long time, especially if you’re using the bubbles approach. UV dye is excellent for fining small and hidden leaks, as its UV properties make locating the leak straightforward.
This means that the repair can be carried out quickly, allowing the engineer more time to deal with other customers.
Is UV Dye Toxic?
Another concern among those using UV dye for the first time is the toxicity of the dye being used.
Although checks need to be made that the UV dye is compatible with the application you’re repairing, sourcing the dye from a reputable supplier will ensure that you’re using the safest product available.
Isn’t the Injection of Dye a Messy Endeavour?
When carrying out a repair, engineers may worry that the use of UV dye could be messy and end up causing more problems.
Although the first iteration of UV dye injection kits may not have been as streamlined as we’d like, the modern versions offer a mess-free injection, meaning that locating the leak is a breeze.
There are several options available, but whatever product engineers decide to use, they can be assured of a straightforward injection process.
What If a Spillage Does Occur?
Despite the efforts made when designing injection kits and UV cartridges, there can be times when spillage still occurs. Fortunately, this can be easily cleaned up with the use if an official dye remover.
This ensures that even if the worst-case scenario does occur, there’s a remedy on hand.
These are some of the more common questions and queries, but it’s understandable that some engineers will want to seek out further advice about certain products and ascertain what will fit their requirements best.
HVACTOOLS is a professional supplier of HVAC tools and accessories, including UV dyes and UV injection kits. It’s expertise also ensures that any queries are answered, regardless of how complicated they are.