THE importance of good, sound brazing techniques, along with an increased awareness of health and safety issues regarding the use of oxy-acetylene equipment is becoming increasingly important, particularly with the increased use of hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants, including R410A, with its comparatively high running and test pressures, as well as the use of potentially flammable hydrocarbon refrigerants, and the changes in working practices that these bring with them.
Pipework brazing is a skill that is often allowed to evolve as a result of “on the job training”. The priority is usually to get the job done sometimes resulting in minimal training, with emphasis on speed rather than quality.

This industry is well aware of the importance of preventing the release of refrigerants to the atmosphere as identified by EC Regulation 842/2006 (F Gas Regulations). It is widely accepted that the best way of joining pipework and components within the system to ensure a hermetically sealed system is to braze to a high standard. However, one element often overlooked with the brazing of pipework is the health and safety issues associated with the equipment utilised. The transportation, testing, setting up and use of oxy-acetylene equipment require a level of competency all too often overlooked, with potentially disastrous consequences.

The CITB Construction Skills accredited course is invaluable to anyone working within the HVACR industry. It is a practically-orientated course including theoretical elements for safe and competent refrigeration brazing techniques including purging the pipework with oxygen-free nitrogen while brazing to ensure minimal contamination of the pipework and covering a range of refrigerant line diameters, brazing materials and techniques to attain leak-proof joints.

Comprehensive study notes are provided for use within the course as well as being a valuable source of future reference. Upon successful completion a certificate of competency is issued along with registration on the CITB database of competent persons.

There are two Pipework and Brazing Competency Certification Courses. The Commercial Scheme requires the attendees to complete a series of test pieces up to 7⁄8in with both copper to copper and dissimilar metal jointing, whereas the Industrial Scheme assessment covers pipe sizing up to 13⁄8in.

This course is run at dedicated training centres in Waterlooville and Milton Keynes.

The use of these facilities has allowed Business Edge to carry out this training in a purpose built environment, for a maximum of eight persons.

The centre is equipped with all the appropriate safety equipment and local exhaust ventilation for the undertaking of the required practical assessments. The course can also be delivered at a company’s premises if suitably equipped. For further information please contact Hazel or Teri-Louise on (023) 9223 0007 or visit www.Businessedgeltd.co.uk.