Accu-Freeze™ is an innovative pipe freezing system that utilises controlled liquid nitrogen (LN2) to freeze liquids within a specific section of a pipe or tubing. Distinguished as the sole patented and digitally controlled solution of its kind worldwide, Accu-Freeze enables precise and secure creation of an ice plug. By regulating the pipe’s surface temperature, this system can effectively form an in-line ice plug, capable of withstanding immense pressure up to 138 bar (2000 Psi) in pipes measuring up to 12″ (300 mm) in diameter.
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What’s In The Box
- 1 x AF7000 Carrying Case
- 1 x AF2000 HV Control Solenoid Valve Header Complete
- 1 x AF3000 Digital Controller Complete
- 1 x AF4010 10ft. Flexible Cryogenic Hose
- 1 x AF4400 Ferrules, Fittings, Tee Connector Asst’d Pack
- 10 x AF5001 Type “T” Connector Plugs (Male)
- 10 x AF5002 Type “T” Connector Jack (Female)
- 3 x AF5004 T/C Wire @ 4ft. with Male End Connector
- 3 x AF5033 T/C Wire @ 33ft. with Male & Female Connector
- 1 x AF5100 Thermo Couple Wire 100ft. Roll
- 1 x AF5101 T/C Wire Spools
- 1 x AF8000 2 Channel Temp Monitor Battery Operated
- 1 x AF7100 Operating Manual
- 1 x AF7200 Insulated Gloves
- 1 x AF7300 Safety Glass
- 1 x AF9000 6” to 12” Insulating Jacket
FAQs
1. What applications is Accu-Freeze™ designed for?
Accu-Freeze™ utilises liquid nitrogen to create the cryogenic temperature necessary to form ice plugs. Freeze sealing is most often used to isolate a section of a piping system where no other ready means of isolation (such as valving) is available. Freeze sealing refers to the process of applying an external refrigerant to a point in a process in order to cause the formation of a solid internal plug from the frozen process fluid contained in the pipe.
2. What size pipes is Accu-Freeze™ suitable for?
The Accu-Freeze® insulating jacket accommodates pipe sizes from 6 – 12″ (150 – 305 mm).
Copper coil is used for the smaller sizes.
Aluminium clam shells are available for 2” – 16” (50 mm – 400 mm).
3. Is ventilation required?
LN2 is heavier than air and will displace oxygen. Sufficient ventilation is required, especially when operating in confined areas.
4. What protective clothing should be worn when operating the Accu-Freeze™ System?
Protective clothing i.e. gloves, goggles etc. must be worn at all times when operating the Accu-Freeze™ System.
5. Can I freeze on a weld?
It is not ideal to freeze on a weld unless the weld has been x-rayed.
6. Can I freeze contents that are moving within a pipe?
No, the liquid contents of the pipe have to be stationery and non-vibrating
7. Can I freeze liquids other than water?
Yes, milk, beer are all examples of other liquids that can be frozen. Some liquids containing refrigerants can be frozen too. Contact our Technical Team on the type and % content.
8. Can I do a freeze either side of the repair joint?
Yes, this is called a double freeze and necessary accessories can be purchased along with the Accu-Freeze™ kit. A double freeze is required when a valve needs replacing for example.
9. What kind of pipes can Accu-Freeze™ be used on?
Accu-Freeze™ can be used on iron, lead, steel and copper pipes. It is also applicable to plastic pipes, but these will take up to three times longer.
10. What about bursting or fracturing pipes?
Pipe fractures are not caused by the ice plug or the freezing process. They are caused by a failure to allow enough space between the ice plug and closed connections. This is due to the increase in pressure that is caused by water that is displaced by the ice plug as it grows that can create a ‘hydraulic ram’ if enough space is not allowed.
11. What if there is a small amount of glycol or other fluid in the line?
It is important to know how much is in the mix and what the freeze point of the liquid is. Note: the ‘freeze point’ may just be a slush and not to the solid state that is required for a plug.
