Inficon D-TEK User manual

D-TEK
Refrigerant Leak Detector
OPERATING MANUAL

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Declaration of Conformity
This is to certify that this equipment, designed and manufactured by:
INFICON Inc.
2 Technology Place
East Syracuse, NY 13057
USA
meets the essential safety requirements of the European Union and
is placed on the market accordingly. It has been constructed in
accordance with good engineering practice in safety matters in
force in the Community and does not endanger the safety of
persons, domestic animals or property when properly installed and
maintained and used in applications for which it was made.
Equipment Description: D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector
Applicable Directives: 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC
89/336/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC
Applicable Standards: EN 61010-1 : 1993
EN50081-1 : 1992
EN50082-1 : 1992
CE Implementation Date: January 3, 1995
Authorized
Representative: Gary W. Lewis
Vice President-Quality Assurance
INFICON Inc.
ANY QUESTIONS RELATIVE TO THIS DECLARATION OR TO THE SAFETY OF INFICON’S PRODUCTS SHOULD BE
DIRECTED, IN WRITING, TO THE QUALITY ASSURANCE DEPARTMENT AT THE ABOVE ADDRESS.
THIS SYMBOL IS INTENDED TO ALERT THE USER TO THE PRESENCE OF IMPORTANT
OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE (SERVICING) INSTRUCTIONS IN THE LITERATURE
ACCOMPANYING THE INSTRUMENT.

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Thank you for buying the
INFICON D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector!
D-TEK combines sophisticated technology with durability for an
instrument with outstanding sensitivity that’s still Laboratory
Accurate, Toolbox Tough
TM
. With normal use and little special care,
your D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector from INFICON will give you
years of trouble-free service.
The D-TEK’s High-Performance Features
• Electrochemical heated-diode sensor
• “No-reset” detection of CFCs, HCFCs, and HFCs
• Automatic adjustment (zeroing) to refrigerants in leak test area
• Rugged flexible probe
• Foam filter for sensor protection
• High/Low leak-sensitivity switch
• Convenient ON/OFF switch with LED indicator
• Variable-pitch audible leak-source signal
• Progressive yellow LED leak-magnitude indicators
• Rechargeable, replaceable NiCd power cells
• AC mains power adapter (100, 120, 220, 240 VAC models
available)
To get the best performance from your D-TEK Leak Detector,
please read this manual carefully before you start using the
instrument. If you have any questions or need additional assistance,
please call 800-344-3304. We’ll be happy to help you.

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Green LED’s
Yellow LED’s
On/Off
switch
Rubberized
grip
Flexible probe
High/Low sensitivity switch
Power-cell
compartment
Power jack
Headphone jack
Heated-diode sensor
Tip protector
Getting Started
WARNING: DO NOT OPERATE THIS INSTRUMENT IN THE
PRESENCE OF GASOLINE, NATURAL GAS, PROPANE, OR IN
OTHER COMBUSTIVE ATMOSPHERES.
Installing the Sensor
The D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector is shipped with the heated-
diode sensor packed separately. The sensor is located in the foil
protective package along with a desiccant capsule to keep it dry.
Installation of the sensor in the tip of the leak detector is required
before use. The steps for installation are:
• Locate the end of the leak detector probe and unscrew (counter-
clockwise) the tip protector. The three sockets are for the leads
of the D-TEK sensor to fit into.
• Remove the sensor from the foil protective package. The sensor
is the small metal “can” with a hole in the top.

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Installing the Sensor (Continued)
• Carefully align the 3 leads (small wires coming out of the bottom
of the cap) on the sensor with the 3 sockets in the top of the
probe. Insert the leads into the sockets and press them together.
Note: You must be careful not to bend the sensor leads because this
can cause erratic operation (see Troubleshooting.)
• Place the tip protector (with filter installed) over the sensor and
tighten snugly by turning cap in clockwise direction.
Charging the Power Cells
Because the D-TEK’s power cells are nickel/cadmium, they are not
yet charged. To charge them, connect the cord of the AC power
adapter to the power jack at the rear of the instrument, and plug the
adapter into the appropriate mains outlet. Allow 10 hours for the full
charge. Even while the power cells are being charged,
your D-TEK Leak Detector’s power cords allow it to
operate (see Using Your INFICON D-TEK) .
Note:
Power cells must be installed in the detector for proper operation.
Using Your INFICON D-TEK
WARNING: DO NOT OPERATE THIS INSTRUMENT IN THE
PRESENCE OF GASOLINE, NATURAL GAS, PROPANE, OR IN
OTHER COMBUSTIVE ATMOSPHERES.
Using the D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector is simple: Make sure
the sensitivity switch is set on HIGH, then slide the power switch to
the ON position. The green ON indicator lamp will light, and some
or all of the yellow warm-up indicator lamps will come on. When the
yellow lamps all go off, the unit is ready to use.
The INFICON D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector provides similar
responses to all CFC’s, HCFC’s, HFC’s and refrigerant blends (i.e.,

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Using Your INFICON D-TEK (Continued)
R-404A, R407C, R-410A) as well as SF
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. There is no need to select
the refrigerant you’re working with.
Headphone sets may be used with the D-TEK Refrigerant Leak
Detector. When the headphones are plugged into the detector, the
audio signal will only be heard through the headset.
WARNING: ONLY USE HEADPHONE SETS SUPPLIED BY
INFICON, PART #032-404. SERIOUS HEARING DAMAGE MAY
OCCUR IF OTHER HEADPHONE SETS ARE USED.
Finding Leaks
• Place the tip of the leak-detector probe as close as possible to
the site of the suspected leak. Try to position the probe within
1/4 inch of the possible leak source.
• Slowly (approximately 1-2 inches per second)
move the probe
past each possible leakage point.
Note: It is important to move the tip of the probe past the leak to get a
correct reading. The INFICON D-TEK only responds to changes in
concentration of the refrigerant from the leak. Moving the probe permits
the instrument to respond properly to these changes.
• Watch for the yellow lamps to light, and listen for a tone. When
the instrument detects a leak source, its yellow lamps will light,
and it will emit a different audible tone.
• When the D-TEK signals a leak, pull the probe away from the
leak for a moment, then bring it back to pinpoint the location.
• If the concentration of the refrigerant gas is high, slide the
sensitivity switch to LOW before repositioning the probe at the

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suspected leak source. The LOW sensitivity setting helps find
the exact site when a leak is large.
• Once you have isolated the leak source, return the sensitivity
setting to HIGH to continue using the D-TEK.
Note: When you reset the instrument to HIGH, as when you turn it on
initially, the yellow lamps will relight and the tone will sound again
momentarily.
• When you’ve finished leak-testing, turn OFF the instrument.
• Store your INFICON D-TEK in a clean place, protected from
shock, impact, or other possible damage.
Choosing Power Options
The INFICON D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector will operate either
on charged power cells or by connection to the AC power adapter.
When the unit is plugged in using the AC power adapter, the power
cells will continue to be charged while the D-TEK is operating,
although somewhat more slowly than if the instrument is OFF.
Two DC power cords are also available, designed to charge and
power the D-TEK from your vehicle’s battery. One DC power cord
plugs into your cigarette lighter; the other has battery clips. As with
the AC adapter, the D-TEK can be operated while connected to the
12-volt supply.
Note: Power cells must be installed in the detector for proper operation.
Maintaining Your INFICON D-TEK
Recharging the Power Cells
Fully charged power cells should provide power for greater than 6
hours of continuous operation. When the charge is getting low, the
green light starts to flash. The flashing light indicates that you have

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about 1 hour of useful charge in the power cells. To recharge the
power cells, use one of the instrument’s power cords.
WARNING: DO NOT ATTACH ANY OTHER POWER
CORDS TO THE D-TEK’S POWER JACK EXCEPT THE AC
POWER ADAPTER AND DC CORDS DESIGNED FOR THIS
INSTRUMENT.
• Connect the AC power adapter cord to the instrument, and plug
the adapter into a working outlet
or
•Connect one of the DC cords to the D-TEK, and tap the power
from your vehicle’s battery.
Allow 10 hours for a full charge. You can operate the leak detector
on any of its power cords while the power cells are charging. Using
the instrument while the power cells are charging, however, will
lengthen the time required for a complete charge. The leak
detector will not overcharge the power cells, but for maximum
power cell life, disconnect the power adapter when the power cells
are fully charged.
Maintaining Your INFICON D-TEK
Recharging the Power Cells (Continued)
Probe
Sensor
Filter
Tip protector
Changing the Filter
The foam filter at the probe tip should be replaced if it becomes
plugged with water or oil. To replace the filter, unscrew the tip

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Changing the Filter (Continued)
protector (counter clockwise) and simply push out (with a paper
clip or similar diameter object) the filter from the sensor side (larger
end) of the tip protector. Slide the new filter into the small hole in
the tip protector, then replace the tip protector.
If the sensor unplugs when you remove the tip protector, take it out
and plug it back in, as described in the next section.
Changing the Sensor
The D-TEK’s electrochemical heated-diode sensing element is
located in the tip of the probe. This specialized sensor will operate
for about 100 hours. At that point, you should replace the sensor:
•Turn OFF the leak detector.
•Locate the end of the leak detector probe and unscrew (counter
clockwise) the tip protector. Pull the sensor (the sensor is the
small “can”with the hole in the top) straight out, which unplugs
it.
•Remove the replacement sensor from the foil protective
package.
•Carefully align the 3 leads (small wires coming out the bottom of
the can) on the sensor with the 3 sockets in the top of the probe.
Insert the leads into the sockets and press them together.
Note: You must be careful not to bend the sensor leads because this
can cause erratic operation (see Troubleshooting .)
•Take this opportunity to change the filter, too. (see Changing
the Filter
.)
•Place the tip protector over the sensor and tighten snugly by
turning cap in clockwise direction.

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Sensitivity Check
The D-TEK has a circuit that allows the operator to check the
sensor’s operation, insuring your instrument will be able to sense
refrigerant at the specified rate. To do this check you should:
•Turn on the D-TEK with the sensitivity switch in the HIGH
position. Be sure you either have charged power cells or you
are operating the D-TEK off the AC adapter.
•After the D-TEK goes through its warm up and all the yellow
LED’s turn off, move the sensitivity switch from HIGH to LOW
and then back to HIGH.
•If you do
not see three (3) or more yellow LED’s light then zero
out, your sensor has either lost its ability to pick up the specified
refrigerant leak or your D-TEK has a malfunction (see Trouble-
shooting
.)
Removing/Replacing the Power Cells
If you have a set of three fully charged power cells, you may
exchange the
complete set with the three used cells in the leak
detector, then recharge the originals later.
Note: Power cells must be installed in the detector for proper operation.
Remove the battery compartment door on the back of the D-TEK by
pressing on both release buttons on the grip and pulling the door
straight out. See the photo below for location of parts. The batteries
are free to slide out into your hand.
Release Button
(Other side not shown)
Battery Door

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Removing/Replacing the Power Cells (Continued)
To install fresh power cells, check the polarity label inside the
power-cell compartment, and insert the positive (button) end of
each power cell first, as shown. Once the power cells are in place,
close the battery compartment by aligning the two tabs and sliding
the door straight in until it latches.
Cleaning the D-TEK’s Housing
The D-TEK’s plastic housing can be cleaned with standard
household detergent or isopropyl alcohol. Care should be taken to
prevent the cleaner from entering the instrument. Since gasoline
and other solvents may damage the plastic, protect your INFICON
D-TEK from contact with these substances.
Troubleshooting
Note:
The internal parts of the D-TEK Leak Detector are not serviceable.
Opening the plastic housing for any reason will void the warranty.
Problem
Low sensitivity, the leak detector is slow to respond to a leak or the
leak detector will not “pick up”refrigerant.
Diagnostics/Remedy
This problem can be caused by broken or shorted wire in the
probe, by a failure in the pumping system or by a sensor that has
burned out.
To identify which area may be the problem you should:
•Turn your D-TEK on and verify the pump is running by listening
for a high pitched motor sound. If you do not hear this sound,
the pump system has failed.

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•If the pump system is operating, perform a sensitivity check
(see Sensitivity Check) on the sensor.
•If your leak detector has failed to light 3 LED’s during the
sensitivity test, you should replace the sensor at the tip of probe
(see Installing the Sensor). With tip protector off, turn the leak
detector ON and look for a red glow in the small hole of the
sensor. If you fail to see a red glow, the leak detector has a
broken or shorted sensor power wire in the probe. If you see a
red glow, screw on the tip protector and perform the
Sensitiv-
ity Check
again. If your leak detector still fails to light 3 LED’s,
you have a broken or shorted sensor signal wire in the probe.
The above failures require you to take your leak detector to your
wholesaler for handling.
Problem
Your D-TEK will not power up (even after charging the proper time)
or all the lights illuminate with no audio sound.
Diagnostics/Remedy
This problem can be caused by power cells that need to be
recharged, improperly installed power cells, power cells that have
shorted or a faulty AC power adapter.
Note: A new D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector does not come with the
batteries charged. To charge them see Charging the Power Cells.
Note: Power cells must be installed in the detector for proper operation.
To identify what area may be the problem you should:
•Insure the power cells have been charged the proper amount of
time. Note: If the detector has been plugged into a power
source the proper amount of time, you may want to guarantee the
power source does not get turned off at night.

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•Check that the power cells are installed properly. The positive
(button) end of each power cell should be inserted first (toward
the front of the instrument).
•Visually check that the power cells are free of oxidation or other
residue. If needed, clean the ends of the power cells with
pencil eraser.
•Open the battery door. Using the AC power adapter try
operating the detector. If the leak detector does not turn on, the
power adapter has failed.
Note: In very few cases the power
circuit on the electronic board in the leak detector may fail giving the
same symptoms. If possible, before ordering a new power adapter,
you may want to run this test with a different power adapter to insure
the electronic board is operating. This test is performed to verify proper
operation of the AC adapter. With the battery door open, the detector
will not operate to published specifications.
•If your leak detector operates on the AC power adapter, test
each individual power cell for voltage output. Do this by using
a voltmeter (DC voltage), putting a probe on each end of the
cell. You should read from 1.0 to 1.4 volts DC on each cell. If
any of the cells fail to indicate the correct voltage, replace the
complete battery set (all 3 cells).
Problem
Your leak detector is erratic, it sounds off when moving the probe,
when the tip is bumped, or when it is sitting on the desk.
Diagnostics/Remedy
This problem can be caused by the sensor leads being bent, not
allowing for proper contact with sockets, by humidity being
absorbed over a long period of not operating the leak detector, or

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Diagnostics/Remedy(Continued)
by shorting lead wires in the probe tip. It should be noted that
sudden whipping of the leak detector probe or “blowing”into the
sensor tip will affect the air flow over the sensor and cause the
instrument to alarm.
To identify what area may be the problem you should:
•Remove the protective cap and sensor. Inspect the sensor
leads (these are the small wires coming out the bottom of the
silver can) for straightness. If they are bent , use needle nose
pliers to gently straighten out the wires. Install the sensor and
test the detector.
•If the D-TEK has not been used for 5 weeks or greater, humidity
may have been absorbed by the “core”of the sensor. Turn the
D-TEK on with the sensitivity switch in the HIGH position. Allow
the D-TEK to run for a minimum of 20 minutes or until spiking
alarms stop.
Note: The absorption of moisture in no way affects
the life or sensitivity of the sensor.
•With the protective cap installed try pushing down on tip of the
probe. Also try bending the probe at the base of the tip from
one side to another. Be cautious not to block the air flow
through the sensor. If you receive a long, continuous alarm,
there may be a short in the probe tip. This failure requires you
to take your leak detector to your wholesaler for handling.
Disposing of Power Cells
At the end of the life of a set of power cells, please dispose of them
according to applicable state and local regulations. In the absence
of such regulations, INFICON encourages its customers to recycle
and/or dispose of the cells through voluntary waste recycling
programs.

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Base unit includes sensor, 3 NiCd power cells, AC voltage wall
adapter with cord, hard plastic molded case, 10 replacement filters,
and 12-volt power cord with cigarette plug.
12" (310 mm)
8.81" (227 mm)
2.30"
(59 mm)
2.65"
(67 mm)
Replacement Parts and Accessories
Replacement parts and accessories for your INFICON D-TEK
Refrigerant Leak Detector are available through the same dealer
from whom you bought the instrument.
Molded plastic case ................................................ 703-059-P1
Headphones ............................................................ 032-404
12-volt cord with battery clips, 12 ft. ...................... 703-056-P1
12-volt cord with cigarette-lighter plug, 12 ft ......... 703-055-P1
120-volt adapter and cord, 6 ft ............................... 054-513
220-volt mains adapter and cord, 6ft......................054-515
Power cells, set of three.......................................... 703-057-G1
Replacement sensor ............................................... 703-020-G1
Tip filters, package of 20 with replacement
tip protector ......................................................... 703-015-G1
Instrument Features and Specifications

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Features:
•Power on/off switch
•High/low sensitivity switch
•Automatic background zeroing
•Several power options:
-AC power wall adapter with 6' cord (100, 120, 220, or
240 VAC)
-3 NiCd rechargeable 1/2 D size power cells, good for
greater than 6 hrs. of continuous operation.
•Built-in recharger
•Case materials are all self extinguishing, per UL 94HB
Specifications:
•Usage ............................................................... Indoor or Outdoor
•Minimum sensitivity to R12 and R134a............ 0.25 oz/yr (7 g/yr)
•Input voltage range .......................................... 12 to 16 volts DC
•Input current ..................................................... 500 mA Max.
•Operating and charging temperature range* . +32°F to 122°F
(0°C to +50°C)
•Storage temperature range.............................. +14°F to +140°F
(-10°C to +60°C)
•Humidity............................................................ 95% RH NC Max.
•Altitude.............................................................. 6500' (2000m)
•Pollution degree ............................................... 2
•Overvoltage category....................................... 2
•Weight (with power cells)................................. 1.28 lb (0.58kg)
*May be operated for a limited time in lower temperature environments
Instrument Features and Specifications (Continued)

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Warranty and Liability-Limitation
INFICON warrants your D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector to be free
from defects of materials or workmanship for two years from the
date of purchase. INFICON does not warrant items that deteriorate
under normal use, including power cells, sensors and filters. In
addition, INFICON does not warrant any instrument that has been
subjected to misuse, negligence, or accident, or has been repaired
or altered by anyone other than INFICON.
INFICON’s liability is limited to instruments returned to INFICON,
transportation prepaid, not later than thirty (30) days after the
warranty period expires, and which INFICON judges to have
malfunctioned because of defective materials or workmanship.
INFICON’s liability is limited to, at its option, repairing or replacing
the defective instrument or part.
This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express
or implied, whether of MERCHANTABILITY or of
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE or otherwise.
All such other warranties are expressly disclaimed.
INFICON shall have no liability in excess of the price paid to
INFICON for the instrument plus return transportation charges
prepaid. INFICON shall have no liability for any incidental or
consequential damages. All such liabilities are
EXCLUDED.
Return Materials Authorization Procedure
All instruments and parts returned to INFICON for repair or credit
must be properly packaged, insured, shipped transportation
charges prepaid, and must have a Return Material Authorization
(RMA) number issued before the material is returned. The RMA
number is to be marked on all shipping labels and packing slips.
Please contact INFICON at 800-344-3304 for RMA number.

Special Information for Automotive Technicians
INFICON’s D-TEK Refrigerant Leak Detector Model #703-005-GX is
designed certified by MET Laboratories, Inc. to meet SAE J1627,
“Rating Criteria for Electronic Refrigerant Leak Detectors”for R12,
R22, and R134a. The following SAE Recommended Practice
applies to this instrument and to the use of generally available
electronic leak detection methods to service motor-vehicle passen-
ger-compartment air-conditioning systems.
1. The electronic leak detector shall be operated in accordance
with the equipment manufacturer’s operating instructions.
2. Leak test with the engine
not in operation.
3. The A/C system shall be charged with sufficient refrigerant to
have a gage pressure of at least 340 kPa (50 PSI) when not in
operation. At temperatures below 15˚C (59˚F) leaks may not be
measurable, since this pressure may not be reached.
4. Take care not to contaminate the detector probe tip if the part
being tested is contaminated. If the part is particularly dirty, it
should be wiped off with a dry shop towel or blown off with shop
air. No cleaners or solvents shall be used, since many elec-
tronic detectors are sensitive to their ingredients.
5. Visually trace the entire refrigerant system, and look for signs of
air conditioning lubricant leakage, damage, and corrosion on all
lines, hoses, and components. Each questionable area shall be
carefully checked with the detector probe as well as all fittings,
hose-to-line couplings, refrigerant controls, service ports with
caps in place, brazed or welded areas, and areas around
attachment points and hold-downs on lines and components.
6. Always follow the refrigerant system around in a continuous path
18

19
Special Information for
Automotive Technicians (Continued)
so that no areas of potential leaks are missed. If a leak is found,
always continue to test the remainder of the system.
7. At each area checked, the probe shall be moved around the
location, at a rate no more than 25 to 50 mm/second (1 to 2
inches/second) and no more than 5 mm (1/4 inch) from the
surface completely around the position. Slower and closer
movement of the probe greatly improves the likelihood of finding
a leak.
8. An apparent leak shall be verified at least once by blowing shop
air into the area of the suspected leak, if necessary, and
repeating the check of the area. In cases of very large leaks,
blowing out the area with shop air often helps locate the exact
position of the leak.
9. Leak testing of the evaporator core while in the air-conditioning
module shall be accomplished by turning the air-conditioning
blower on high for a period of 15 seconds minimum, shutting it
off, then waiting for the refrigerant to accumulate in the case for
time specified by section 9.1 (below), then inserting the leak
detector probe into the blower resistor-block or condensate
drain-hole if no water is present, or into the closest opening in
the HVAC case to the evaporator, such as the heater duct or a
vent duct. If the detector alarms, a leak apparently has been
found.
9.1 The accumulation time for evaporator testing is 13 minutes.
9.2 Following any service to the refrigerant system of the vehicle,
and any other service which disturbs the refrigerant system, a
leak test of the repair and of the service ports of the refrigerant
system shall be done.

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
www.inficon.com
074-338-P1A
WO ECHNOLOGY PLACE
EAS SYRACUSE, NY 13057-9714 USA
Laboratory Accurate. oolbox ough. M