How should joints in refrigerant piping be treated in field installations?

The correct treatment of joints in refrigerant piping during field installations is to ensure they are properly sealed to prevent leakage, which is crucial for system efficiency and safety. Joints that are left open for visual inspection do not adhere to the requirements for proper sealing and can lead to various issues, including refrigerant loss, potential environmental impact, and reduced system performance.

In practice, joints should be made secure and leak-proof to avoid any escape of refrigerants. This is typically achieved by using suitable mechanical fittings or welding, as required by the mechanical code and best practices.

The alternatives suggest measures that do not address the critical need for joint integrity. For example, welding permanently would create a safe and reliable joint, but joint inspection and maintenance would be impeded if ever needed. Sealing and painting the joints could protect against corrosion but does not effectively secure the joint or allow for proper leak detection. Insulating the joints is essential for preventing condensation, but it does not contribute to the essential properties of the joint itself.

Proper treatment involves ensuring all joints are adequately secured and sealed to promote system efficiency and safety before considering any additional protective measures.