For the quality control of the products sold, the most modern analytical equipment is used: all processing stages, including the final preparation of products for shipment, are checked by analysing samples taken according to a detailed sampling plan laid down by the quality system.
The quality control laboratory is fitted with modern equipment capable of performing all the analyses required for refrigerant gases:
Product identification and purity check (gas chromatograph)
Moisture level measurement (Karl Fischer analyser)
Analysis and measurement of non-condensables
Determination of high-boiling residue
Acidity and chloride ion level (acid-base titration)
The gas is checked according to rigorous, documented procedures which, in line with the company’s certified quality system, ensure compliance with the guaranteed specifications. Our laboratory guarantees the highest product quality in accordance with the international AHRI 700 specifications.
Refrigerant analysis
The Gielle laboratory was built and equipped in compliance with the strict testing requirements laid down by the AHRI 700 standard. Gielle provides refrigerant analysis services carried out in the state-of-the-art laboratory at its own facility. The analysis services allow end users to identify the refrigerant in a system and to detect the levels of any contaminants that may be present. The test results report any problems caused by residual oil, moisture, acidity, composition, purity, non-condensables and R40 (methyl chloride).
Halon analysis
The Gielle laboratory is equipped to analyse Halon 1301 and 1211 according to ASTM D5632-08 Type I / II and ASTM D7673-10 Type I / II respectively. Our analysis verifies whether Halon 1301 and 1211 meet the specifications required for use as fire-fighting agents in the critical uses permitted by law. The parameters tested are purity, water content, acidity, the qualitative test for halide ion, non-volatile residue, suspended matter and non-condensable gases (Type II).
Oil testing
Oil testing can give early warning of potential problems by identifying the concentrations of metals and other contaminants in the oil. This can prevent unwanted downtime and also prevent damage to equipment. Our oil analysis kit contains a small bottle for taking a sample of the oil to be analysed and a form: both must be returned to Gielle so that it can carry out the analysis.
CO2 analysis
Refrigeration systems containing carbon dioxide (CO2/R744) require strict control of moisture, oil and other contaminants. Our CO2 analysis service allows end users to check the purity and moisture levels of the product in the system. Our analysis cylinders have been designed specifically to collect liquid CO2 samples. Our laboratory facilities have been set up to handle analyses according to the specifications established by industry standards. It is essential to use the correct sampling techniques and cylinders to obtain a meaningful analytical result (a standard refrigerant analysis cylinder is not suitable for this purpose).
Glycol testing
The glycol testing services provided by Gielle can determine the general condition of heat transfer fluids (HTFs) and of the systems in which they are used. These tests include:
Fluid pH – The pH of the fluid gives a good indication of its general condition. A low pH (<7 ) generally indicates degradation of the fluid which, if left unchecked, can corrode the system. A high pH (>9.5) increases the risk of corrosion of certain metals.
Refractive index and freeze protection – An accurate determination of the freezing point provides reliable information on the protection provided for a system.
Biofouling – A water-based HTF and the systems in which it is used can be subject to biofouling. A biological growth test can be carried out to identify the presence of fouling at an early stage and to disinfect the system effectively.
Conductivity – The electrical conductivity of an HTF can be used to detect the onset of corrosion.
Pre-shipment testing
Since most HFC products now come from China, importers need to be confident of the quality of those products. Gielle offers a pre-shipment testing service for HFC refrigerants and fire protection products coming from China. This operation, for both bulk and packaged products, takes place when the goods are complete, packed and ready to ship.
The following aspects are checked:
Full qualitative analysis of the product before shipment
Leak detection using professional instruments
Unit weight of products in small packages
Packaging graphics, label, heat-shrink sealing, valve size and cylinder handle
Any others requested by customers