Leak detection and automatic Pump Down for R410A refrigerant by Panasonic
A complete assurance and safety protection. Ideal solution for hotels, offices and public buildings where the strict safety of end users and workers is required.
The system monitors refrigerant leakage continually and provides a warning, preventing major refrigerant loss and potential damage to the installation’s efficiency. The system can reduce potential refrigerant loss by up to 90%.
As well as ensuring safe and reliable operation, Panasonic’s Pump Down system contributes towards BREEAM POL1 points and enables compliance with current EN 378 standards, covering applications where refrigeration concentration levels exceed practical safety limits of 0,44 kg/m³.
Basic Pump Down function:
Leak detection.
Activate Pump Down process.
Collect refrigerant within receiver tank.
Close valves to isolate refrigerant.
Technical focus:
Compatible with Mini ECOi / ECOi EX / ECO G* Series with R410A refrigerant.
A receiver kit included as standard.
Includes updated controller.
Connection in two ways: 1 - With local room leakage sensors / 2 - Using innovative algorithm.
R22 renewal possible.
* For connection to GHP, additional components required dependent on configuration. Please contact your local Panasonic representative for details.
Direct leak detection method: the safest solution for small rooms
The leak detector is connected directly to the indoor unit and the Pump Down system is directly connected to the outdoor unit PCB. The Pump Down system will activate when a leak is detected in the room and initiate a refrigerant reclaim operation immediately. This immediate reaction, and large refrigerant storage capacity, offers very high levels of safety for end users, building occupants, as well as being environmentally friendly.
No additional communication panels or software is required. This option should be implemented in any area that is not compliant with BS EN 378.
Indirect leak detection method: Unique PLC algorithm to determine refrigerant leakage
Pressure and temperature sensors constantly monitor the high / low pressure and discharge of the condensing unit to protect against potential leakage in areas not covered by leak detectors. The innovative algorithm is able to detect leakage of R410A based on abnormal changes in the following conditions, high and low pressure, and compressor discharge temperature. Once initiated via either direct or indirect detection, the unit will immediately close the liquid / discharge actuating ball valves, close the alarm terminals on the Pump Down PCB allowing an alarm to be raised at any nominated location. Reclaim of the refrigerant is via the suction line to the heat exchanger(s) of the outdoor unit(s), with any surplus refrigerant collected in the 30 l receiver tank. Once fully pumped down the suction line is closed and the unit awaits a ‘Reset’ and ‘Recharge’ command. Thanks to the simple installation and control, shown in Fig 1, Panasonic’s ECOi Pump Down system can provide dramatic reduction in capital cost and installation time when compared to a standalone leak detection system, shown in Fig 2.
Fig 1: Panasonic’s Pump Down system / Fig 2: Standalone leak detection system.
Quick and simple installation
The unit contains actuating ball valves, a 30 L storage vessel and PLC all housed in an IP54 rated encasement. Terminals in front of the unit allow easy wiring to the alarm terminal, high / low pressure transducers and discharge temperature sensor(s) of the condensing unit(s).