ROBINAIR LD7 Dual Mode Refrigerant Gas Leak Detector Instruction Manual

Operating Instructions
(original instructions) Model: LD7
Dual Mode Refrigerant
Gas Leak Detector

Introduction

The LD7 features a patented 3 LED UV light that emits the optimum wavelength for A/C dye fluorescence. The UV light can be used simultaneously with the solid
electrolyte sensor or independently. The LD7 does not require rechargeable batteries.
The LD7 features a long life solid electrolyte semiconductor sensor technology that is designed to detect all CFC, HCFC, HFC, and HFO refrigerants including R-1234YF (HFO), R-134A (HFC), R-410A (HFC), R-22 (HCFC), R-407C (HFC), R-507 (HFC), R-12 (CFC), R-404C (HFC). The LD7 is designed to detect all SNAP approved refrigerant blends.
The LD7’s unique graphic color LCD display and sweep mode function conveys messages, graphics and prompts giving the A/C technician real-time information to help locate the source of the leak and ensure the leak detector is always at optimal performance. The LED inspection light aids the technician to locate and inspect suspected leak sources.

Features

Patented 3 LED UV lights with 395-415 nm wavelength is optimum for A/C dye fluorescence
Unique color graphic LCD display
Long life, stable sensor
R1234yf sensitivity .015 oz/yr
R134a sensitivity .05 oz/yr
Certified to SAE J2791, J2913, ASHRAE 173-2012, EN14624-2012
Sweep mode function to pinpoint leak source
Automatic calibration and reset to ambient
User friendly message and error screens
Hi intensity LED inspection light
3 sensitivity levels
Low battery indicator
True mechanical pump
Audio mute function
Uses 4 AA alkaline batteries
CE Certified
Comfortable Santoprene handle grip
2-year warranty includes sensor

LD7 Control Panel

Operating Instructions

1. Turn On: Press the ON/OFF button once to turn on and again to turn off.
   NOTE: For SAE J2913 sensitivity setting hold down ON/OFF button until R1234yf Mode is displayed.

2. Warm Up: The detector automatically starts heating the sensor. During the heating cycle, the LCD display will display the message “WARM UP- PLEASE WAIT” with a progress bar (see figure). Warm up is usually less than 20 seconds.

3. Search: The display will show the “READY” momentarily and then “SEARCH” when searching for leaks can begin. The audio “beep” will begin to sound. Move the probe tip towards a suspected refrigerant leak at the rate of less than 2 inches (~50 mm) per second, no more than 1/4 inch (~5 mm) away from the suspected source.

4. Detection: If a leak exists, the sound will increase in rate and pitch and the display will show the numerical indication of the leak size.

NOTE: The leak detector responds to changes in refrigerant concentration. When detection occurs, move the probe away from the source and back again to confirm the leak source. The detector alarm will reset if the probe is held fixed at the source (see Automatic Calibration Feature).

UV Light & Inspection Light Operation

CAUTION: EMITS ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION

• This UV (ultraviolet) LED during operation radiates UV light.
• Avoid direct eye and skin exposure to UV light.
• If viewing the UV light is necessary, please use UV filtered glasses to avoid damage by the UV light.

Before leak checking with the UV light:
a. Make sure the A/C system is properly charged with sufficient dye. (See manufacturer’s specifications for proper dye charge.)
b. Run the A/C system long enough to thoroughly mix and circulate the dye with the refrigerant and lubricating oil.

1. Turn on UV light by pressing the LED button once. (See control panel on page 4). 3 UV LED’s will turn on (see image below).
2. Holding the leak detector approximately 10” to 14” away, shine the UV light beam slowly over the components, hoses, and metal lines that make up the A/C system.
3. When the UV light shines on the fluorescent dye that has escaped from the system, the dye will glow a bright yellow green.

1. Turn on Inspection light by pressing the LED light button until the white LED’s turn on. (See control panel on page 4)
2. Inspect all A/C fittings, hoses and components for excessive wear or damage.

Auto Shut-off
The UV Light and Inspection Lights will automatically shut off after 5 minutes.
This will ensure proper battery life in case the LED lights are left on inadvertently

Leak Size Indicator

The LCD bar-graph leak size indicator remains off normally but once a leak is detected, a number of bars will be displayed. The number will continue to increase or decrease depending on the amount of refrigerant sensed. The display will be the same for all HFC and HCFC refrigerants regardless of the sensitivity setting.
The maximum value will be displayed once the leak source has been located. The table below can be used to approximate the size of leak:

Sweep (Pinpoint) Mode

This mode allows the user to “zero in” or pinpoint hard to find small leaks.
Similar to an oscilloscope trace “sweeping” across the display, the display “cursor” will sweep across the display from left to right tracking a horizontal baseline over a 3  second period.
When no leak is sensed, the baseline trace will be flat. While searching, if refrigerant gas is sensed, the horizontal trace on the display will rise up and continue to rise as the leak source is approached. If the user moves away from the leak source, the trace will drop back down.
Because the display in this mode is based on a time period, the previous leak level sensed will be displayed helping the user to determine where the maximum level of gas is present- thereby pinpointing the source of the leak.
Note: The sensitivity level in the Sweep Mode will default to HI.

Automatic and Manual Calibration

To allow the user to find the leak source easily, the detector will calibrate itself either automatically (default) or manually to the ambient and reset the alarm as soon as there is detection.
In Automatic mode, the detector will automatically reset the alarm. In Manual mode, the detector will continue to alarm if gas is detected until the user presses the SENS button to reset the alarm. Both modes allow the user to get closer to the leak source without the detector continually alarming. In Automatic mode, once the source of the leak is found, the detector will not alarm again until the probe is moved away from the source and back again. In Manual mode, once the source of the leak is found, the detector will continue to alarm at the source until the SENS button is pressed.
To use the detector in Manual Calibration mode: Press and hold the SENS Selector and release when the AUTO icon is replaced with MANUAL on the display. To return to Automatic Calibration, press and hold the SENS button; and do not release until the AUTO icon is displayed.
Note: The sensitivity levels can only be changed in Automatic Calibration mode. To change sensitivity levels while in Manual mode, return to Automatic mode, select the desired level and return back to Manual mode.

Adjusting Sensitivity Levels

In addition to the automatic calibration, the audio alarm trigger level can be set by the user to 3 different sensitivity levels (LO, MED, HI). If the detector is continuously alerting while pulled away from the suspected area of the leak, the sensitivity level can be adjusted so the detector will only alert when the sensor is close to the source of the leak.
The Leak Detector will default to the MED sensitivity level automatically once the unit comes out of the warm up cycle. To change sensitivity levels, press the SENS once for HI sensitivity and again for LO sensitivity.

Audio Mute Function

To silence or mute the audio beep and alarm signal, press the MUTE button. To restore the audio sound, press the MUTE button again.
(Note: a few seconds is required to restore sound if the mute button is pressed in rapid succession.)

Leak Test Vial

The leak detector comes with a Leak Test Vial that allows the user to verify the detector is performing properly. Check the expiration date on the vial before testing the leak detector.
To test:

1. Remove the colored label dot on the center of the screw cap to expose the vent hole. (see fig. below)
2. Turn on the detector and allow the unit to complete the warm up cycle. Set sensitivity level to HIGH.
3. Place the sensor close to the hole in the the Leak Test Vial. The beep rate should increase and the Leak Size Indicator should display 3-6 bars indicating that the sensor and electronics are working properly.

NOTE: The leak detector responds to changes in refrigerant concentration.
When detection occurs, move the probe away from the source and back again to confirm the leak source. The detector alarm will reset if the probe
is held fixed at the source (see Automatic Calibration Feature).

MAINTENANCE

Batteries
WARNING: RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION –
Use AA alkaline batteries only in this product. Using the wrong type of battery could result in a fire or explosion.
Install Batteries: Unscrew battery cover located at the base of the unit as shown. Install four AA alkaline batteries into the battery compartment in the direction as shown noting the polarity mark on the inside of the battery compartment for correct battery orientation.
Replace batteries when the display shows the message REPLACE BATTERIES. Sensor & Sensor Filter
Replace Filter: Unscrew sensor tip as shown to replace filter. Replace filter when it becomes visible dirty or when the display shows “REPLACE SENSOR FILTER.” The LD7 will keep track of the number of hours of usage and advise the user when it is time to replace it.
Replace Sensor: Remove sensor by pulling out of socket. Install the new sensor by aligning the keyway notch in sensor cover with the raised keyway on sensor socket holder (see figure below).
Note: Do not force sensor into socket. Misalignment can damage the sensor pins. Important: The instrument’s software is designed to alert the user if the sensor is dislodged or defective. If the sensor is not fully inserted into the six-pin socket, or if it is defective, the instrument will not come out of the “Warm Up” mode for proper operation when the power button is turned on. In this case, the message screen as shown on the right will be displayed. Additionally, if the instrument becomes unstable during its operation, it is an indication that the sensor may be defective.
Note: If the leak detector has been out of use for an extended period, weeks or months, the following action is recommended. Power on the instrument and allow it to come out of warm up, and then run it with the sensitivity level in the (Hi) high position for several minutes before testing it with the Leak Test Vial. This action will guarantee that the sensor is fully conditioned for maximum response to refrigerant gas.

User Interface Displays

Sensor Clearing Message
Note: Sensor Clearing Message is displayed when sensor becomes saturated with a very large concentration of gas during which time the sensor will not function optimally. Recovery is normally less than 10 seconds.
Replace Sensor Filter Message
Note: Replace Sensor Filter Message is displayed when the detector’s timer registers approximately 30 hours of accumulated use. Press the appropriate button when prompted “DONE” or “LATER” on the display. If “DONE” is selected, the detector will reset to zero hours. If “LATER” is selected the detector will continue to prompt the user to replace the filter after each subsequent use until “DONE” is selected.

Product Specifications

EN14624/2005 Test Specifications

Minimum/Maximum Sensitivity Threshold (fixed)| 1 gm/yr minimum, >50 gm/yr maximum
---|---
Minimum/Maximum Sensitivity Threshold (moving)| 3 gm/yr minimum, >50 gm/yr maximum
Minimum Detection Time (1gm/yr)| Approx. 1 second
Clearing Time| Approx. 9 seconds after exposure to >50 gm/yr
Minimum Threshold after Maximum Exposure| 1 gm/yr
Sensitivity Threshold in Polluted Atmosphere| 1 gm/yr
Calibration Frequency| 1/yr check with calibrated leak standard

Product Application Ambient

• Indoor/Outdoor Use
• Temperature Range: -24—125°F (-31—52°C)
• Humidity Range: <95% Non-Condensing
• Altitude: <10,000 ft.
• Pollution Degree 4
• Protection Grade: IP51

Cross Sensitivity to Automotive Chemicals

Some automotive solvents and chemicals have similar hydrocarbon properties as R134a and may elicit a positive response. Before leak checking, clean up any chemicals in the list below that elicit a positive response.

Replacement Parts

Product Cleaning Instructions

Remove surface dust by wiping with a dry cloth.

Return for Repair Policy & Warranty Policy

Every effort has been made to provide reliable, superior quality products. However, in the event your instrument requires repair, call the Robinair Technical Hotline below for instructions.
Robinair warrants the LD7 Refrigerant Gas Leak Detector to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of purchase. Robinair shall, at its option, repair or replace, at no charge, such products which, under normal conditions of use and service, prove to be defective in material and/or workmanship. This warranty applies to all repairable instruments that have not been tampered with or damaged through improper use including unauthorized opening of the unit. Please ship warranty units that require repair freight prepaid to Service Center along with proof of purchase, return address, phone number and/or email address.
Robinair shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, special or punitive damages arising from the sale or use of any products, whether such claim is in contract or not. No attempt to alter, modify or amend this warranty shall be effective unless authorized in writing by an officer of Robinair.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY IMPLIED BY LAW, WHETHER FOR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A  PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR OTHERWISE AND SHALL BE EFFECTIVE ONLY FOR THE PERIOD THAT THIS EXPRESS WARRANTY IS EFFECTIVE. SOME STATES AND JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
Tech Services:800-822-5561  

655 Eisenhower Drive
Owatonna, MN 55060 USA
Technical Services: 1-800-822-5561
Fax: 1-866-259-1241
Customer Service: 1-800-533-6127
Fax: 1-800-322-2890
www.robinair.com
581638 REV F
© Bosch Automotive Service Solutions Inc.
Robinair / October 2020

References

• Stay connected with a touch | Robinair
• Stay connected with a touch | Robinair

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