Leak detection with ultraviolet additives (UV additives) (BMW leak-testing case) (530i 2017-2022, 530i xDrive 2017-2022, 530e PHEV 2018-2022, 530e xDrive PHEV 2018-2022, 540i 2017-2022, 540i xDrive 2017-2022, M550i xDrive 2018-2022)
Leak detection using ultraviolet additives is generally not recommended as the UV additives lead to an uncontrolled over oiling of the refrigerant circuit. This results in a reduction of the cooling power. Leak detection with forming gas is preferable.
Leak detection using ultraviolet additives is permitted for refrigerants R134a and R1234yf.
Attention!
In EU countries it is prohibited by law to fill a knowingly leaking refrigerant circuit with the refrigerants (R134a and R1234yf):
If a leak is suspected in the refrigerant circuit, refilling with refrigerant and UV additives for the purpose of a subsequent leak detection is not permitted
In this case, carry out the leak detection with forming gas
UV additives must be filled only in a tight refrigerant circuit
Observe national regulations in all other countries!
Attention!
It is absolutely essential to read and comply with the equipment manufacturer's operating instructions provided in the leak testing case!
Read and comply with the manufacturer's operating instructions provided with the leak testing case with regard to accident prevention, health protection and environmental protection.
Use only BMW-approved UV additives (e.g. TRACER).
Only the basic procedure is described in the following!
Attention!
UV additives may not be used in vehicles with electric A/C compressors!
Follow SAFETY PRECAUTIONS when handling refrigerant.
Attention!
Ultraviolet lamp gets very hot in the radiation area!
Do not use the ultraviolet lamp without the filter glass.
Eyes and skin will suffer damage if the ultraviolet lamp is used without the filter glass.
When using the ultraviolet lamp, wear the safety goggles provided in the leak testing case.
- Fill the hose system of the hand pump completely with UV additive PRIOR to use
- The UV additive may be used exclusively for BMW- approved REFRIGERANT OILS
- Do not operate the air conditioning while the hand pump is connected or in use
- The air conditioning must always be filled with an adequate amount of refrigerant to enable the UV additives to be properly distributed
Before actually testing for leaks, check the entire refrigerant circuit using the UV leak detection lamp to ensure that no UV additive is already in the area of the refrigerant circuit.
Leak areas which have already been detected by UV light must carefully cleaned with the cleaning agent provided in the leak testing case.
On initial use:
Connect hand pump (1) to additive cartridge (2) and pipe section (3).
On initial use:
Attach vent valve (1) to quick-release coupling (2).
Turn handle (3) on hand pump to advance the piston until a small amount of UV additive emerges. This vents the hose system.
Attention!
The entire hand pump with hose system must not be disassembled again once filling has been completed.
Attach quick-release coupling (1) to low-pressure connection (2) of air conditioning system.
Turn handle on hand pump (3) until the required amount of UV additive is added.
The quantity of UV additive to be added is dependent on the amount of refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit:
- Air conditioning systems with refrigerant filling up to 900 g: one graduation mark (4) on additive cartridge
- Air conditioning systems with refrigerant filling in excess of 900 g: two graduation marks (4) on additive cartridge
Further tasks:
- Start engine
- Run air conditioning at highest level for 5-10 minutes in order to ensure adequate distribution of dye in the system
- Turn off engine.
- Check all the components of the refrigerant circuit for any leaks
- Possible leaks are displayed in green when using the UV leak detecting lamp and UV-absorbing safety goggles
Complete accompanying information label (1) with the relevant data and attach in an easily visible position next to the type plate (2).
