Extraction System Group Classifications
At this time, service units for extracting, cleaning and filling refrigerant for motor vehicle A/C systems are available on the market from various manufacturers.
Only certain service stations (with appropriate auxiliary device and different adapters if necessary) can be used for cleaning (flushing with refrigerant R134a) the refrigerant circuit. Refer to REFRIGERANT CIRCUIT, CLEANING (FLUSHING) WITH REFRIGERANT R134A .
When performing work on refrigerant circuit or when handling refrigerant observe all generally applicable safety precautions and pressure container regulations.
The service and recycling units used in motor vehicle workshops are extraction and charging systems not requiring a permit (Group "3") but which are only to be operated by qualified personnel. Instructions for unit operation and maintenance can be found in the relevant manufacturer's documentation.
Extraction and charging systems of groups "1" and "2" are not used in motor vehicle workshops.
Extraction and Charging Systems of Group "3" :
Mobile extraction and charging systems for filling compressed-gas containers permanently connected to the system.
The refrigerant or refrigerant/oil mixture is transferred to compressed gas containers which are permanently connected to the mobile systems. In accordance with 3 Para. 5 No. 3 of pressure container regulations, compressed-gas containers are classified as pressure containers in this case.
The charging systems require:
-- No permit
-- no expert testing as the gas is transferred to compressed-gas containers which are classed as being pressure containers. (Systems used for transfer from these pressure containers to compressed-gas containers for supplying to third parties do however require a permit and are subject to mandatory testing).