ASHRAE
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers Inc.
1791 Tullie Circle, NE • Atlanta, Georgia 30329-2305
404-636-8400 • Fax 404-321-5478
SPC/GPC MINUTES COVER SHEET
(Minutes of all SPC/GPC Meetings are to be distributed to all persons listed below within 60 days following the meeting.)
SPC/GPC NO.:
SPC/GPC TITLE:
DATE OF MEETING:
SSPC 15
ISSUE DATE:
January 11, 2010
Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems
June 21, 2009
LOCATION:
Louisville, KY
Attendance
Voting Members Present
Phillip A. Johnson
Stephen W. Duda
Danny M. Halel
Jay A. Kohler
John I. Vucci
Martin L. Timm
Status
PCVM – Chair
PCVM – Secretary
PCVM
PCVM
PCVM
PCVM
Voting Members Absent
Ajay R. Chatlani
Jeffrey M Shapiro
Status
PCVM
PCVM
Others Present
Wayne Borrowman
Brian Rodgers
A Bruce Badger
Warren Beeton
Chris Bellshaw
Don Blacklock
Status
NVM
NVM
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Others Present (con’d)
Sean Cunningham
Paul Doppel
Dennis Dorman
Bruce Griffith
Umar Khokhar
Kostas Kontomaris
Scott MacLeod
Barbara Minor
Sunil Nanjundaram
Chun-Cheng Piro
Douglas Reindl
Robert Richard
John Scott
Kenji Takizawa
Mike Thompson
Kyle D Wessells
Dave Wilson
Jing Zheng
Gary Zyhowski
Status
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
Guest
DISTRIBUTION:
•
•
•
ALL MEMBERS OF SSPC 15
ALL ATTENDEES (ABOVE)
LIAISONS:
SPLS: Byron W Jones
Staff: Mark J Weber
-1These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
Meeting Summary
Action Items (carried forward from previous Meetings):
07A-04.
Responsible Party: D. Reindl, S. Duda, M. Timm.
Action: Address Domina Change Proposal 15-06-12-0001 (Revise 15’ clause of 9.7.8).
Status: On this Meeting’s Agenda, and Completed.
08W-01.
Responsible Party: S. Duda, D. Dorman, J. Kohler, J. Shapiro, J. Calm.
Action: Duda to Chair a TeleConference with above parties to study further the Calm CM Change
Proposal 15-08-12-0001/001 and report to full committee at 2010 Winter Meeting.
Due Date: December 31, 2009
08A-01.
08A-02.
08A-03.
Complete / Closed.
Complete / Closed.
Complete / Closed.
08A-04.
Responsible Party: S. Duda & J. Vucci.
Action: With respect to McClure Change Proposal 15-05-12-0004-001 (removal of refrigerant vapor) and
Paragraph 8.11.4 – Vucci will draft a potential resolution or response and Johnson will circulate to the full
committee for comment. It was suggested that the European Standard EN-378 Part 3 be reviewed for
possible similar language.
Due Date: Orlando 2010 Winter Meeting.
08A-05.
08A-06.
Complete / Closed.
Complete / Closed.
09W-01.
Responsible Party: J. Kohler, D. Dorman, W. Beeton, and B. Badger.
Action: Review SSPC 34’s Continuous Maintenance Change Proposal under consideration, to add a new
flammability classification 2L for refrigerants which demonstrate moderate flammability but lower flame
propagation speed (i.e., low risk of explosion). This provision would be similar to ISO 817 but is not yet
part of ISO 5149. One refrigerant that would fall into the new category, for example, is HFO-1234yf.
Kohler, Dorman, Warren Beeton, and Bruce Badger volunteered for an Ad Hoc committee jointly with
SSPC 34 to discuss specific parameters. Also: Discussion within the Flammability Subcommittee of
changing the test temperature for flammability, to revise it from 100 C to 60 C to match international
standards. Does SSPC 15 have a preference? Dorman will research his employer’s data.
Due Date: On today’s agenda, and Completed.
-2These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
09W-02.
Complete / Closed.
Action Items (new this Meeting):
09A-01.
Responsible Party: S. Duda.
Action: Update the SSPC 15 Website.
Due Date: Complete, but Ongoing.
09A-02.
Responsible Party: P. Johnson.
Action: Prepare Publication Public Review package and response to Domina Change Proposal 15-06-120001 and submit through proper channels.
Due Date: Complete.
09A-03.
Responsible Party: P. Johnson.
Action: Contact L. Burgett regarding formulating SSPC 15’s formal position on Society of Automotive
Engineers (SAE) request to examine whether Standard 15 needs to address mobile air-conditioning.
Due Date: Orlando 2010 Winter Meeting.
-3These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
SUMMARY OF MOTIONS:
Secretary’s Note: All votes recorded herein are formatted as Aye-Nay-Abstain-Absent. Chair voted unless noted
otherwise.
1. Motion:
Second:
Text:
Vote:
2. Motion:
Second:
Text:
D. Halel
S. Duda
Approve the Chicago January 25, 2009 Winter Meeting Minutes as amended: (1) On Page 3, Action Item
09W-01, add Brian Rodgers to the ad-hoc committee; (2) throughout the Minutes, correct the
Flammability Classification incorrectly referred to as “II-L” to now read “2L.”
Motion Carried (5-0-1-2 CV). Reason for abstention from M. Timm is that he was not present at that
Meeting.
M. Timm
D. Halel
Approve for Publication Public Review the following Addendum and Response to Domina Change
Proposal 15-06-12-0001/001:
9.7.8 Pressure-relief devices and fusible plugs on any system containing a Group A3 or B3 refrigerant; on any
system containing more than 6.6 lb (3 kg) of a Group A2, B1, or B2 refrigerant; and on any system containing more
than 110 lb (50 kg) of a Group A1 refrigerant shall meet the following requirements for discharge to atmosphere:
1) Discharge at an elevation not less than 15 ft (4.57 m) above the adjoining ground level
Exception: For systems using Group A1 refrigerants, there shall be no minimum elevation requirement for
the discharge location, if all of the following requirements are met:
a) The system is located outdoors.
b) The discharge location is in an access-controlled area, accessible only to authorized personnel.
c) Location and orientation of the discharge shall not impinge directly on personnel in the accesscontrolled area.
2) Discharge not less than 20 ft (6.1 m) from any window, ventilation opening, pedestrian walkway, or exit in any
building.
3) Terminate in a manner that will prevent the discharged refrigerant from being sprayed directly on personnel in
the vicinity, and prevent foreign material or debris from entering the discharge piping.
4) Discharge piping connected to the discharge side of a fusible plug or rupture member shall have provisions to
prevent plugging the pipe in the event the fusible plug or rupture member functions.
5) Heavier-than-air refrigerants shall not discharge:
1. Directly into an outdoor enclosed space (such as courtyard with walls on all sides) when the
concentration of refrigerant within the enclosed space would exceed the RCL assuming the entire
charge of the system is released.
2. Within 20 ft horizontally of below-grade walkways, entrances, pits, etc. when the concentration of
refrigerant within that space would exceed the RCL assuming the entire charge of the system is
released.
6.
Vote:
Lighter-than-air refrigerants shall not discharge directly into or within 20 ft of a covered outdoor space where
the concentration of vented refrigerant could accumulate and exceed the RCL.
Motion Carried (6-0-0-2).
-4-
These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
3. Motion:
Second:
Text:
Vote:
4. Motion:
Second:
Text:
Vote:
J. Kohler
J. Vucci
To accept the analysis and conclusion from the working group: “SSPC 15 Statement to SSPC 34: To
harmonize ISO 817 and Standard 34, it is proposed to use 60°C as the test temperature in place of 100°C
when conducting flame propagation testing. SSPC15 assigned a working group to evaluate the impact of
this proposed change with regards to Standard 15. The conclusion was: It is acceptable to change from
100°C to 60°C.”
Motion Carried (6-0-0-2).
J. Kohler
S. Duda
Adjourn.
Motion Carried (6-0-0-2).
-5These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
MINUTES
I.
Call to Order / Quorum Call
a) P. Johnson, Chair, called the meeting to order at 1:04 pm EDT at the Galt House Hotel, Rivue Level 3, Dogwood
Room, Louisville, Kentucky. Six Voting members (of Eight) answered the roll call, thereby constituting a
quorum.
II.
Introduction of Members And Guests
a) Self-introductions of members and guests were made around the table as the attendance roster was circulated. P.
Johnson welcomed all guests and visitors.
III.
Approval of Chicago January 25, 2009 Winter Meeting Minutes
a) Two corrections were made to the Draft Chicago January 25, 2009 Winter Meeting Minutes: (1) On Page 3,
Action Item 09W-01, add Brian Rodgers to the ad-hoc committee; (2) throughout the Minutes, correct the
Flammability Classification incorrectly referred to as “II-L” to now read “2L.”
b) D. Halel offered a MOTION to approve the Chicago January 25, 2009 Winter Meeting Minutes as amended
above. S. Duda offered a Second. Show-of-Hands Vote: Motion Carried (5-0-1-2 CV). Reason for abstention
from M. Timm is that he was not present at that Meeting.
Secretary’s Note: All votes recorded herein are formatted as (Aye-Nay-Abstain-Absent); Chair voted unless noted
otherwise.
IV.
Issues and Updates from PC Chair’s Breakfast (Johnson)
a) SSPC 15 needs to update its Website. S. Duda has recently been appointed Webmaster by the Chair. ACTION
ITEM #09A-01.
b) Regarding the following item from the 2009 Winter Meeting: Society Standards Committee is considering a change to
the PC MOP (Project Committee Manual of Procedures) Paragraph 6.2.6 to require a 2/3 affirmative vote and not more
than 25% negative, in order to approve a Publication Public Review addendum. The purpose of this initiative is to better
define what constitutes a “consensus”. Discussion followed. Update at this Meeting: This item has been withdrawn and
dropped from further consideration.
c) A reminder that the Public Review Comment process is now on-line in a two-way manner, so the SSPC can view
comments, respond to comments; and the commenter can view the processing, progress, and status of replies.
d) Upcoming Deadlines: July 24, 2009 is the deadline for Publication Public Review packages for the September
Public Review period; August 03, 2009 is the membership roster change deadline; January 15, 2010 is the
deadline for Final Publication Submittal Form.
e) Chairman Johnson’s report from the PC Chairs’ Breakfast follows:

PCs with a website must assign a webmaster. Steve Duda volunteered in Chicago to maintain the website
until the end of his term in 6/30/2010.

Proposed procedural changes. In Chicago (Jan 2009) a proposal for voting procedures was presented, to
address concerns about whether “consensus” has been achieved or not. Due to negative feedback regarding
the proposed changes, the proposal has been dropped.

Online Comment Database System. Now required for publication public reviews. URL link available from the
ASHRAE Standards web page. Any PC member can access this system, using the same login and password
-6-
These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
used for your ASHRAE membership. All comments are viewable, as are the committee responses (draft or
approved), and also the commenter’s reply to the response. Standards requests that PC’s provide feedback and
suggestions for improvement. Direct comments to either Mark Weber ([email protected]) or to our SPLS
Liaison Byron Jones ([email protected]).
V.

7/24/2009 Deadline for submittal of Publication Public Review Packages.

9/11/2009 Public Review Starts for 30-day and 45-day public reviews.

8/3/2009 Deadline for submittal of Membership Changes (bios/applications).

1/15/2010 Deadline for Chairs to submit the Final Publication Submittal Form (if no comments).

(TBD) Deadline for Chairs to submit TPS Changes, Work Plans.
SSPC 15 Roster Changes
a) D. Halel’s term on the committee roster ends June 30, 2009. Four more membership terms end June 30, 2010. B.
Badger, D. Reindl, D. Dorman are being recommended by the Chair to become Voting Members on July 1, 2009.
VI.
Liaison reports (Liaisons)
a) CIS Code Interaction Subcommittee – (Caylor): Absent / No report at this time. J. Kohler will attend the CIS
meeting later this evening. Some discussion of trying to coincide the timing of our Standard with the ICC cycle.
b) Standard 34 – (Kohler): (Item 1) Refer to Item XII.a) elsewhere in these Minutes.
c) Refrigeration Committee – (Badger): Working on a Standard for design of refrigerated facilities.
d) No other reports were given.
VII.
Review of Action Items from Previous Meetings (Johnson)
a) The committee reviewed each Action Item from the previous meetings. See status report included herewith.
VIII.
Standard 15-2007 Addenda (Johnson)
a) Addendum a, b, c, d, e – all are Published and Appear in the 2008 Supplement.
b) Addendum f to the 2007 Edition – Galley proof approved, and goes to Standards Committee approval at this
Meeting.
c) Addendum g to the 2007 Edition – Has received all Society approvals and is going to Publication.
d) Addendum h to the 2007 Edition – Galley proof approved, and goes to Standards Committee approval at this
Meeting.
e) Addendum i to the 2007 Edition – Galley proof approved, and goes to Standards Committee approval at this
Meeting.
IX.
CM Change Request Proposals
a) Calm 15-08-12-0001/001 (Piping Materials): Refer to ATTACHMENT A. Background information is that some
Code Officials are not allowing PVC for refrigerant pressure relief discharge piping because of Paragraph 9.1.5.
As J. Calm attempted to address that issue, his work expanded to include a number of revisions to Article 9. No
further action at this Meeting; deferred to Orlando 2010 Winter Meeting. ACTION ITEM #08W-01.
-7These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
b) Domina – 15-06-12-0001 (Revise 15’ clause of 9.7.8) (Duda) – ACTION ITEM #07A-04 and ATTACHMENT
B. M. Timm offered a MOTION and D. Halel offered a Second to approve for Publication Public Review the
following Addendum and Response to Domina Change Proposal 15-06-12-0001/001:
9.7.8 Pressure-relief devices and fusible plugs on any system containing a Group A3 or B3 refrigerant; on any
system containing more than 6.6 lb (3 kg) of a Group A2, B1, or B2 refrigerant; and on any system containing more
than 110 lb (50 kg) of a Group A1 refrigerant shall meet the following requirements for discharge to atmosphere:
6) Discharge at an elevation not less than 15 ft (4.57 m) above the adjoining ground level
Exception: For systems using Group A1 refrigerants, there shall be no minimum elevation requirement for
the discharge location, if all of the following requirements are met:
d) The system is located outdoors.
e) The discharge location is in an access-controlled area, accessible only to authorized personnel.
f) Location and orientation of the discharge shall not impinge directly on personnel in the accesscontrolled area.
7) Discharge not less than 20 ft (6.1 m) from any window, ventilation opening, pedestrian walkway, or exit in any
building.
8) Terminate in a manner that will prevent the discharged refrigerant from being sprayed directly on personnel in
the vicinity, and prevent foreign material or debris from entering the discharge piping.
9) Discharge piping connected to the discharge side of a fusible plug or rupture member shall have provisions to
prevent plugging the pipe in the event the fusible plug or rupture member functions.
10) Heavier-than-air refrigerants shall not discharge:
3. Directly into an outdoor enclosed space (such as courtyard with walls on all sides) when the
concentration of refrigerant within the enclosed space would exceed the RCL assuming the entire
charge of the system is released.
4. Within 20 ft horizontally of below-grade walkways, entrances, pits, etc. when the concentration of
refrigerant within that space would exceed the RCL assuming the entire charge of the system is
released.
7.

Lighter-than-air refrigerants shall not discharge directly into or within 20 ft of a covered outdoor space where
the concentration of vented refrigerant could accumulate and exceed the RCL.
The above Motion carried (6-0-0-2). ACTION ITEM #09A-02 to Johnson to prepare Publication Public
Review package and submit through proper channels.
c) McClure 15-05-12-0004-001 (removal of refrigerant vapor) (G. Zyhowski): ACTION ITEM #08A-04 and
ATTACHMENT C. Discussion: ISO 5149 gives very general guidance about location of intakes but nothing
specific. ). D. Halel offered that European Standard EN-378 Part 3 may have helpful language. CSAB 52
Standard (Canadian Standard) Paragraph 6.2.5.3 may have helpful language. Other standards use the “location
where refrigerant is likely to accumulate” language. Some sentiment on committee that Breathing Zone language
be proposed. Examine makeup high and exhaust low condition. Duda, Vucci, Borrowman, Halel assigned to task
group.
d) Timm 15-07-12-0003-003 (how to size the PRVs in a cascade system): M. Timm deferred any preparatory action
on this item until next meeting.
X.
Interpretation Requests
a) There are no formal Interpretation Requests pending.
-8These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
XI.
Update on Related Standards
a) IIAR (Badger): 2008 Publication of IIAR-2 is complete. Six commenters are now working on a ventilation system
revision for an Addendum. IIAR-1 (Terminology for Industrial Refrigeration) is coming out within 12 months.
IIAR-3 is a Valve Standard; not ready. IIAR-5 was pulled back because ANSI no longer allows trial use as a
method of Public Review. Also briefed us about IIAR-6, 7, 8 and Handbook Chapter.
b) ISO 5149 (Kohler): Kohler noted that the ad hoc meeting was limited in nature because ISO did not meet during
the past meeting cycle.
c) UL 1995 (Rodgers): Revised UL Standard 207 was published April 20, 2009; and UL Standard 471 will be
published by end of July as consensus was achieved. UL 1995 is ready to be published by July 2009.
d) Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) CO2 for Mobile Air-conditioning (P. Johnson & J. A. Baker): Carry-over
from 2009 Winter Meeting: A request was received to examine whether Standard 15 needs to address mobile airconditioning. Consensus answer is that Standard 15 is specifically applicable to stationary systems, not mobile systems. Due
to the upcoming phaseout of R-134a for automobiles in some countries, other non-traditional refrigerants may have to be
considered. SAE is asking SSPC 15 whether to add mobile air-conditioning or at least share in the responsibility for helping
to develop a parallel standard for mobile systems. Their goal is to find at least one volunteer, with the ultimate goal to help
the industry use safe low-risk systems; just as the goal for Standard 15 is safety in stationary systems. L. Burgett was
suggested, and any volunteers should call J. Baker. Update This Meeting: ACTION ITEM #09A-03 for Johnson to
follow up with Lee Burgett. Some discussion that one or more members may bring forward a Change Proposal to
further emphasize that Standard 15 does not apply to mobile or transportation refrigeration.
XII.
Other Business
a) 100°C vs 60°C flammability test temperature discussion. The request came from SSPC 34 for our opinion (in
their effort to harmonize Std 15 with ISO 817). Is our opinion that this proposed change is acceptable? The model
(presented by Dorman) suggests very little practical difference between the two temperatures.

The working group proposed the following response: “SSPC 15 Statement to SSPC 34: To harmonize ISO
817 and Standard 34, it is proposed to use 60°C as the test temperature in place of 100°C when conducting
flame propagation testing. SSPC15 assigned a working group to evaluate the impact of this proposed change
with regards to Standard 15. The conclusion was: It is acceptable to change from 100°C to 60°C.”

Kohler offered a MOTION: To accept the analysis and conclusion from the working group; i.e., it is
acceptable to SSPC15 to change the test temperature in Standard 34 from 100°C to 60°C, when conducting
flame propagation testing to determine flammability classification. Vucci offered a Second. Motion Carried
(6-0-0-2).
b) 2L Classification Discussion. This is ACTION ITEM 09W-01 but no action was taken prior to this Meeting,
because nobody was Chair. Add Brian Rodgers, Barbara Minor, Dave Wilson as members of the task group, and
Dorman was appointed Chair. He will invite participation of SSPC 34 members.
c) General discussion on applicability of Standard 15 to nuclear power plant applications. Johnson will check with
TC 9.02 for interest.
XIII.
Adjournment
a) Next Meeting: Sunday, January 24, 2010 at 1:00 pm EST in Orlando, FL; Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel; Room
Gatlin E5.
b) Kohler offered a MOTION to Adjourn / Duda offered a Second. Motion carried (6-0-0-2). Chairman Johnson
declared the meeting adjourned at 4:54 pm local time.
-9These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
End of Minutes
Respectfully submitted by:
Stephen W. Duda
Secretary of SSPC 15
January 11, 2010
Attachments:
A
B
C
Calm 15-08-12-0001/001
Domina 15-06-12-0001
McClure 15-05-12-0004-001
- 10 These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee on January 24, 2010 and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
ATTACHMENT ‘A’
These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
FORM FOR SUBMITTAL OF PROPOSED CHANGE TO AN
ASHRAE STANDARD UNDER CONTINUOUS MAINTENANCE
NOTE: Use a separate form for each comment. Submittals (Microsoft Word preferred) may be attached to e-mail (preferred),
submitted on a CD, or submitted in paper by mail or fax to ASHRAE, Manager of Standards, 1791 Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta,
GA 30329-2305. E-mail: [email protected]. Fax: +1-404/321-5478.
1. Submitter:
James M. Calm, P.E.
Engineering Consultant
10887 Woodleaf Lane
Great Falls, VA 22066-3003 USA
phone: +1 (703) 636-9500, fax: +1 (775) 655-3474, e-mail:
[email protected]
I hereby grant the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE) the
non-exclusive royalty rights, including non-exclusive rights in copyright, in my proposals. I understand that I
acquire no rights in publication of the standard in which my proposals in this or other analogous form is used. I
hereby attest that I have the authority and am empowered to grant this copyright release.
Submitter’s signature: ________________________________ Date: 2008.01.16, revised 2008.01.18
All electronic submittals must have the following statement completed:
I James M. Calm , through this electronic signature, hereby grant the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and
Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) the non-exclusive royalty rights, including non-exclusive rights in copyright, in this
proposal. I understand that I acquire no rights in publication of the standard in which this proposal in this or other analogous
form is used. I hereby attest that I have the authority and am empowered to grant this copyright release.
2. Number and year of standard: 15-2007
3. Page number and clause (section), subclause, or paragraph number: §9.1 Materials
4. I propose to:
(check one)
[ X ] Change to read as follows
[ ] Add new text as follows
[ ] Delete and substitute as follows
[ ] Delete without substitution
Use underscores to show material to be added (added) and strike through material to be deleted (deleted). Use additional pages if needed.
5. Proposed change:
See attached revisions (insertions and deletions as well as clean text version of proposed
changes)
6. Reason and substantiation:
See attachment: to simplify use and enforcement of section §9.1 Materials
7. Will the proposed change increase the cost of engineering or construction? If yes, provide a brief
explanation as to why the increase is justified.
No cost increase; potential cost decrease from reduced confusion and simplified enforcement
[ X ] Check if additional pages are attached. Number of additional pages:
5
[ ] Check if attachments or referenced materials cited in this proposal accompany this proposed change. Please
verify that all attachments and references are relevant, current, and clearly labeled to avoid processing and review
delays. Please list your attachments here:
Rev. 3-9-2007
PROPOSED CHANGE TO §9.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 15-2007 UNDER CONTINUOUS MAINTENANCE
James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA
page 2 of 6
5. Proposed change: (additions are underscored – deletions are struck through)
9. DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS
9.1 Materials in Contact with Refrigerants
9.1.1 Suitability. Materials used in the construction and installation of refrigerating systems
internal to refrigerant circuits, otherwise in contact with refrigerants during normal operation,
used to vent refrigerants, or to join such materials including solders, brazing materials, primers,
and adhesives shall be: suitable for conveying the refrigerant used. Materials shall not be used
that will deteriorate because of the refrigerant, the lubricant, or their combination in the presence
of air or moisture to a degree that poses a safety hazard.
a. Thermally stable at both operating and off-cycle conditions
b. Chemically compatible with the refrigerant and, if any, associated lubricant including
with air or moisture levels resulting from manufacturing, installation, or leakage
c. Structurally suitable for the designed used
d. Not an abnormal toxic risk during service procedures
9.1.2 Special Provisions for Specific Refrigerants. The following specific stipulations apply
for the refrigerants indicated in addition to the requirements of 9.1.1:
a. All halogenated refrigerants: 9.1.2 Aluminum, zinc, magnesium, or their alloys
shall not be used in contact with methyl chloride. Magnesium and magnesium alloys
shall not be used in contact with any halogenated refrigerants containing fluorine,
chlorine, bromine, or iodine.
b. R-40 (Methyl Chloride): 9.1.2 Aluminum, zinc, magnesium, or their alloys shall not
be used in contact with methyl chloride. Magnesium alloys shall not be used in
contact with any halogenated refrigerants.
c. R-717 (Ammonia): 9.1.3 Copper and its alloys shall not be used in contact with
ammonia except as a component of bronze alloys for bearings or other
nonrefrigerant-containing uses.
Exception: Copper and its alloys, and specifically bronze, are allowed for bearings
and for other uses not essential for refrigerant containment when determined by the
equipment or component manufacturer to be suitable for the intended use. 9.1.4
Aluminum and its alloys are allowed suitable for use in ammonia systems.
9.1.3 Pressure-Relief Discharge Piping. 9.1.5 Piping material used in the discharge line of a
pressure-relief device or fusible plug shall be the same as required for refrigerants. Vent lines to
discharge purge or pressure-relief to the atmosphere when required by 8.14 and 9.7.8 together
or by 9.7.8 alone shall:
a. Conform to 9.1.1(a)-(d)
The proposal contained herein is hereby placed in the public domain by its author, James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA.
Anyone can do anything they want with it. Author grants to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) the non-exclusive royalty rights, including non-exclusive rights in copyright, in this proposal. Other parties
also are welcome to similar rights, for example for modification of model and local construction and other safety codes. 2008.01.16
PROPOSED CHANGE TO §9.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 15-2007 UNDER CONTINUOUS MAINTENANCE
James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA
page 3 of 6
b. Shall be noncombustible when tested in accordance with ASTM E 136 or selfextinguishing with a rating of 5VA, 5VB, V0, or V1 when test in accordance with UL
94.
Exception: When discharging to atmosphere, Type F buttweld pipe is allowed.
Add to APPENDIX E NORMATIVE REFERENCES
NOTE: Renumber added references for sequential order upon insertion:
1. E 136-99e01, Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C,
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West
Conshohocken, PA 19428 USA.
Note: Reference N1 is mandatory for manufacturers and laboratories of materials tested by
this standard. For all other users, this reference is informative.
2. UL 94-1996, Test for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances,
Underwriters Laboratories Incorporated, 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062, USA.
Note: Reference N2 is mandatory for manufacturers and laboratories of materials tested by
this standard. For all other users, this reference is informative.
The above changes yield (“clean text”) the following text with additions accepted and deletions
removed:
9. DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS
9.1 Materials in Contact with Refrigerants
9.1.1 Suitability. Materials internal to refrigerant circuits, otherwise in contact with refrigerants
during normal operation, used to vent refrigerants, or to join such materials including solders,
brazing materials, primers, and adhesives shall be:
a. Thermally stable at both operating and off-cycle conditions
b. Chemically compatible with the refrigerant and, if any, associated lubricant including
with air or moisture levels resulting from manufacturing, installation, or leakage
c. Structurally suitable for the designed used
d. Not an abnormal toxic risk during service procedures
9.1.2 Special Provisions for Specific Refrigerants. The following specific stipulations apply
for the refrigerants indicated in addition to the requirements of 9.1.1:
a. All halogenated refrigerants: Magnesium and magnesium alloys shall not be used
in contact with refrigerants containing fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine.
The proposal contained herein is hereby placed in the public domain by its author, James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA.
Anyone can do anything they want with it. Author grants to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) the non-exclusive royalty rights, including non-exclusive rights in copyright, in this proposal. Other parties
also are welcome to similar rights, for example for modification of model and local construction and other safety codes. 2008.01.16
PROPOSED CHANGE TO §9.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 15-2007 UNDER CONTINUOUS MAINTENANCE
James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA
page 4 of 6
b. R-40 (Methyl Chloride): Aluminum, zinc, or their alloys shall not be used in contact
with methyl chloride.
c. R-717 (Ammonia): Copper and its alloys shall not be used in contact with ammonia.
Exception: Copper and its alloys, and specifically bronze, are allowed for bearings
and for other uses not essential for refrigerant containment when determined by the
equipment or component manufacturer to be suitable for the intended use.
9.1.3 Pressure-Relief Discharge Piping. Vent lines to discharge purge or pressure-relief to the
atmosphere when required by 8.14 and 9.7.8 together or by 9.7.8 alone shall:
a. Conform to 9.1.1(a)-(d)
b. Shall be noncombustible when tested in accordance with ASTM E 136 or selfextinguishing with a rating of 5VA, V0, or V1 when test in accordance with UL 94.
Add to APPENDIX E NORMATIVE REFERENCES
NOTE: Renumber added references for sequential order upon insertion:
1. E 136-99e01, Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C,
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West
Conshohocken, PA 19428 USA.
Note: Reference N1 is mandatory for manufacturers and laboratories of materials tested by
this standard. For all other users, this reference is informative.
2. UL 94-1996, Test for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances,
Underwriters Laboratories Incorporated, 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062, USA.
Note: Reference N2 is mandatory for manufacturers and laboratories of materials tested by
this standard. For all other users, this reference is informative.
6. Reason and substantiation:
The requirements of §9.1.1 appear intended for piping conveying refrigerants. As written,
however, these requirements apply to all materials “used in the construction and installation of
refrigerating systems” including those having no contact with refrigerants, such as external
supports, external wiring, thermal insulation, and if literally interpreted even the tools used in the
installation process. Moreover, the term “suitable” without any qualification is a bit vague.
The second sentence of §9.1.2 allows magnesium, but not its alloys, in contact with
halogenated refrigerants. If interpreted as “magnesium or its alloys,” then it need not be
mentioned in the first sentence of §9.1.2 since the chlorine in methyl chloride is a halogen.
Candidly, §9.1.2 is a bit confusing, since methyl chloride no longer is used as a refrigerant and
there are other reactive metals that also are problematic. Magnesium is an unlikely candidate
due to its cost, but I suppose someone might consider it for centrifugal impellers or axial blades.
Also, the term “halogenated” is not defined in 15-207 and may not be clear to all enforcement
officials even though its meaning should be understood by chemists and engineers.
The proposal contained herein is hereby placed in the public domain by its author, James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA.
Anyone can do anything they want with it. Author grants to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) the non-exclusive royalty rights, including non-exclusive rights in copyright, in this proposal. Other parties
also are welcome to similar rights, for example for modification of model and local construction and other safety codes. 2008.01.16
PROPOSED CHANGE TO §9.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 15-2007 UNDER CONTINUOUS MAINTENANCE
James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA
page 5 of 6
The wording “or other nonrefrigerant-containing uses” in §9.1.3 is confusing whether it refers
back to uses of copper and its alloys in contact with ammonia or only to bronze alloys.
The old §9.1.2-§9.1.3 become unnecessary with the revised wording on compatibility. I am
leaving them in as part of the new §9.1.2 to avoid controversy, but candidly I have no concern
with their outright deletion.
As written, §9.1.4 is problematic in that it could be construed as enumerating all eligible
materials for ammonia systems, hence it raises the possibility for misinterpretation that steel and
other ferrous materials are not allowed. Actually, anything not prohibited is allowed, so §9.1.4
really serves no purpose in a code as contrasted to explanation in a handbook or manual. Also,
it creates a conflict with §9.1.3 for alloys of copper and aluminum. I have communicated with
Bruce Badger and Kirsten McNeil at the International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR),
and they concur with the proposed deletion.
The wording “the same as required for refrigerants” in §9.1.5 is vague; does it mean the same
as §9.1.1, something more, or something less? Also, vent lines that pass through occupied
spaces raise concerns regarding combustibility in a fire. The issue is not so much combustibility,
since codes generally allow a wide range of combustible materials (e.g., wood, plastics, and
fabrics in occupied spaces) especially in buildings without installed fire sprinklers, but the
possibility if not self extinguishing of spreading a fire from a machinery room to an occupied
space or the reverse. Moreover, there is no apparent reason that requirements for pressurerelief vent piping (normally containing only air except in a relief event) should be more restrictive
in this regard than vent piping for plumbing drainage and waste systems (normally containing a
toxic gas).
The exception to §9.1.5 implies that the preceding language in §9.1.5 (or at least in §9.1)
precludes use of Type F butt-weld pipe, but there is no such prohibition that makes the
exception necessary. Also, the term “Type F” is vague without a reference or clarification. The
exception actually states the opposite of what was intended, namely it allows Type F butt-weld
pipe while IIAR 2 §5.15.1 states that “ASTM A-120, A-53/A-120, or A-53 Type F pipe shall not
be used (8.7).” Again, I have communicated with Bruce Badger and Kirsten McNeil at IIAR, and
they concur with the proposed deletion.
The revised language above attempts to resolve these concerns and to provide more specific
guidance for materials with specific focus on piping. The change to the title of §9.1 makes it
clear that the provisions in §9.1 and its subsections pertain only to materials in contact with
refrigerants and not to electrical and other devices or structural components external to the
refrigerant circuit (not in contact with refrigerant), supports, hangers, and similar components.
ASHRAE 15 could require that the external materials conform to local code requirements for
building construction materials, but that is unnecessary since that already is required by those
codes and then introduces confusion as to the exact intent.
The added references and specific criteria for flammability are based on the definition of noncombustibility in the ICC codes and self-extinguishing in the piping trade. The resulting
flammability requirements would allow PVC vent lines. PVC piping systems are described as
“self extinguishing and will not support combustion.” It has a V0 rating by UL 94, but normally is
not rated per ASTM E136. PVC and qualified primers and adhesives are chemically compatible
with most common refrigerants. The ICC and IAPMO codes allow PVC for sanitary drainage,
waste, and vent (DWV) systems in buildings.
The proposal contained herein is hereby placed in the public domain by its author, James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA.
Anyone can do anything they want with it. Author grants to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) the non-exclusive royalty rights, including non-exclusive rights in copyright, in this proposal. Other parties
also are welcome to similar rights, for example for modification of model and local construction and other safety codes. 2008.01.16
PROPOSED CHANGE TO §9.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 15-2007 UNDER CONTINUOUS MAINTENANCE
James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA
page 6 of 6
The following websites provide detailed descriptions and illustrations of the flammability tests
and ratings for anyone wanting further information:
http://www.ides.com/property_descriptions/UL94.asp,
http://www.fire-testing.com/html/instruments/ul94ad.htm, and
http://www.ul.com/plastics/flame.html
UL 94 is harmonized with ISO standards to facilitate future changeover to ISO standards.
The proposal contained herein is hereby placed in the public domain by its author, James M. Calm, Engineering Consultant, USA.
Anyone can do anything they want with it. Author grants to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) the non-exclusive royalty rights, including non-exclusive rights in copyright, in this proposal. Other parties
also are welcome to similar rights, for example for modification of model and local construction and other safety codes. 2008.01.16
ATTACHMENT ‘B’
These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.
ATTACHMENT ‘C’
These Minutes were approved by vote of this Committee and are the official, approved record of the proceedings.