HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
Q&A - Double Flares - Short #225
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- Double flares offer a stronger connection but are less practical for modern HVAC applications, where single flares suffice.
- The process of flaring involves specific techniques, including oiling the flare cone to prevent galling.
- In mission-critical situations, such as high-pressure systems, double flares or alternative solutions like gaskets are recommended.
- Technological advancements have made modern flaring tools practical, reducing the need for double flares.
Summary
Understanding Double Flares
In this episode, Bryan addresses Drew's question about double flares in HVAC applications. Bryan explains that a double flare connection involves a two-step flaring method which is typically used to ensure a more secure and leak-proof bond between copper lines and equipment, especially in high-pressure scenarios. He describes the basic process of creating a traditional flare, highlighting some nuances like the importance of proper height adjustment and oiling to prevent galling. While double flares offer improved security, they are less commonly used today due to the additional step required and the unavailability of double flare dies in many modern tools. Bryan mentions that they have not needed to resort to double flares in HVAC due to technological advances in flaring tools and techniques.
Practical Applications of Double Flares
The discussion moves on to when and why double flares may be utilized, particularly in mission-critical contexts such as where toxic or flammable refrigerants are involved or in situations with higher pressure demands. Double flares are more common in industrial settings. Bryan also discusses alternatives, such as flare gaskets, which can help achieve leak-free connections in situations where double flares might otherwise be used. These gaskets can sometimes provide a practical solution without requiring additional tools. Bryan emphasizes that the goal is always to ensure a reliable and code-compliant connection, whether it’s a single or double flare.
Sponsors
- Refrigeration Technologies · Their Viper aerosol coil cleaner for condensers and evaporators is super convenient, safe to use without rinsing, and eliminates the need for bulky pump sprayers.
- FieldPeace · Visit their site for high-quality HVAC tools and equipment.
- UEI Test Instruments · Their UEI Service Plus guarantee offers reliable service for residential and commercial combustion analyzers, including shipping benefits.
- Carrier · Learn more about their products at their official site.
Show notes
In this short podcast episode, Bryan answers a listener-submitted question about double flares and their application in the HVAC/R industry.
Flare connections are common in certain types of equipment, and they connect the copper to the appliance. As a result, when we make a flare, our goal is to make it leak-free. A regular flare requires you to cut the copper, clean it, put the flare nut on, and make the flare with a flaring block (or a flaring tool). You can also put a little bit of oil on the flare cone to prevent galling. Modern power flaring tools are common nowadays, especially in markets where we install a lot of mini-splits. We also use torque wrenches to tighten the flare connection according to the manufacturer's specs.
In mission-critical applications where we have toxic or flammable refrigerants under high pressure, we especially want leak-free connections. Double flares make more sense in these scenarios for extra security (though we may use different connection types). A double flare requires you to use a double-flare die that flares over the edge, though those double-flare dies are more common in older flaring kits and may not exist for power tools or spin tools.
Double flares are usually less practical than other alternatives that exist on the market. For example, some manufacturers make flare gaskets to reduce the likelihood of leaks, and these are functionally similar to a double flare.
Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.
Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium.
Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android
Follow this show on AudioBrevity and new episodes get summarized for you. Create a free account