Circular 20/2023/TT-BTNMT QCVN 76:2023/BTNMT collect, transport, handle controlled substances

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ATTRIBUTE

Circular No. 20/2023/TT-BTNMT dated November 30, 2023 of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment on promulgating the National Technical Regulation on collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse and handling of controlled substances
Issuing body: Ministry of Natural Resources and EnvironmentEffective date:
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Official number:20/2023/TT-BTNMTSigner:Le Cong Thanh
Type:CircularExpiry date:Updating
Issuing date:30/11/2023Effect status:
Known

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Fields:Natural Resources - Environment

SUMMARY

The National Technical Regulation on collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse and handling of controlled substances

On November 30, 2023, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment issues Circular No. 20/2023/TT-BTNMT on promulgating the National Technical Regulation on collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse and handling of controlled substances (QCVN 76:2023/BTNMT).

1. Specialized equipment for collection of controlled substances must be inspected and calibrated prior to its use in accordance with the law provisions on measurement, including:

- Recovery machine, which is a piece of equipment capable of recovering controlled substances with a vacuum pressure of less than 10 kPa without the assistance of components contained within an air-conditioning or refrigeration system.

- Recovery container, which is a pressure vessel exclusively used to contain controlled substances. A recovery container must meet the following requirements:

- It is assigned a color code according to the 2015 Guideline K of the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute: Containers for Recovered Non-flammable Fluorocarbon Refrigerants;

- Its pressure must not exceed the permissible pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions;

2. Requirements for collection of controlled substances:

- Preparing necessary specialized equipment specified in 2.1.2 of this Regulation before collecting controlled substances.

- Using a vacuum pump to remove non-condensable gases completely from the recovery container in case it is a brand new one.

- Collecting controlled substances separately by type and put them into each recovery container using a recovery machine.

- Controlled substances loaded into a recovery container shall not be more than 80% of the weight (in kg) or 70% of the volume of the recovery container according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using a scale to determine the weight of the recovery container. The weight of collected substances depends on the type and working pressure of controlled substances, etc.

This Circular takes effect from May 30, 2024.
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Effect status: Known

THE MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT
________________________________

No. 20/2023/TT-BTNMT

THE SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM

Independence - Freedom - Happiness
____________________

Hanoi, November 30, 2023


CIRCULAR

On promulgating the National Technical Regulation on collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse and handling of controlled substances

__________________________

 

Pursuant to the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations dated June 29, 2006;

Pursuant to the Law on Environmental Protection dated November 17, 2020;

Pursuant to the Government's Decree No. 127/2007/ND-CP dated August 01, 2007, detailing a number of articles of the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations;

Pursuant to the Government's Decree No. 78/2018/ND-CP dated May 16, 2018, amending and supplementing a number of articles of the Government's Decree No. 127/2007/ND-CP dated August 01, 2007, detailing a number of articles of the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations;

Pursuant to the Government's Decree No. 06/2022/ND-CP dated January 07, 2022, on mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions and protection of ozone layer;

Pursuant to the Government's Decree No. 68/2022/ND-CP dated September 22, 2022, defining the functions, tasks, powers and organizational structure of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment;

At the request of the Director of the Department of Climate Change, Director of the Department of Science and Technology and Director of the Department of Legislation;

The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment promulgates Circular on promulgating the National Technical Regulations on collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse and handling of controlled substances.

 

Article 1. Promulgated together with this Circular is the National Technical Regulation on collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse and handling of controlled substances, code: QCVN 76:2023/BTNMT.

Article 2. Effect

This Circular takes effect from May 30, 2024.

Article 3. Ministries, ministerial agencies, People’s Committees, Departments of Natural Resources and Environment of provinces and centrally-run cities, and relevant organizations and individuals shall implement this Circular./.

For the Minister

The Deputy Minister

LE CONG THANH

 

THE SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM

 

QCVN 76:2023/BTNMT

 

NATIONAL TECHNICAL REGULATION ON COLLECTION, TRANSPORTATION, STORAGE, RECYCLING, REUSE AND HANDLING OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

 

HANOI - 2023

 

FOREWORD

QCVN 76:2023/BTNMT is formulated by the Department of Climate Change, submitted by the Department of Science and Technology and Department of Legislation for approval; appraised by the Ministry of Science and Technology and promulgated together with Circular No. 20/2023/TT-BTNMT dated November 30, 2023, of the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment.

 

NATIONAL TECHNICAL REGULATION ON COLLECTION, TRANSPORTATION, STORAGE, RECYCLING, REUSE AND HANDLING OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

 

1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

 

1.1. Scope of regulation

This regulation provides technical regulations on collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse and handling of controlled substances in Appendix III.2 and Appendix III.3 issued together with Circular No. 01/2022/TT-BTNMT dated January 7, 2022 of the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment detailing the implementation of the Law on Environmental Protection in response to climate change (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 01 /2022/TT-BTNMT).

1.2. Subjects of application

This regulation applies to agencies, organizations, and establishments involved in the collection, transportation, storage, recycling, reuse, and handling of controlled substances.

 

2. TECHNICAL REGULATIONS

 

2.1. Regulations on collection of controlled substances

2.1.1. The collection of controlled substances must comply with safety measures and law provisions on fire prevention and fighting.

2.1.2. Specialized equipment for collection of controlled substances must be inspected and calibrated prior to its use in accordance with the law provisions on measurement, including:

2.1.2.1. Recovery machine, which is a piece of equipment capable of recovering controlled substances with a vacuum pressure of less than 10 kPa without the assistance of components contained within an air-conditioning or refrigeration system.

2.1.2.2. Recovery container, which is a pressure vessel exclusively used to contain controlled substances. A recovery container must meet the following requirements:

2.1.2.2.1. It is assigned a color code according to the 2015 Guideline K of the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (hereinafter referred to as “AHRI”): Containers for Recovered Non-flammable Fluorocarbon Refrigerants;

2.1.2.2.2. Its pressure must not exceed the permissible pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions;

2.1.2.2.3. Its pressure valves and seals are periodically checked according to regulations.

2.1.2.3. Scale, which is used to determine the weight of controlled substances contained.

2.1.2.4. Vacuum pump, which is used to remove non-condensable gases completely from the recovery container in such a way that the vacuum pressure is less than 10 kPa.

2.1.2.5. Leak test equipment, which is used to determine the leakage of controlled substances must be calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions and ISO 20486:2018 Standard on non-destructive testing, leak testing and calibration of reference leaks for gases or an equivalent standard.

2.1.2.6. Pressure gauge, which is used to determine the system's working pressure.

2.1.2.7. Other safety tools and equipment: thermometer used to determine temperature of controlled substances; electric meter used to record electricity-related parameters.

2.1.3. Requirements for collection of controlled substances:

2.1.3.1. Preparing necessary specialized equipment specified in 2.1.2 of this Regulation before collecting controlled substances.

2.1.3.2. Using a vacuum pump to remove non-condensable gases completely from the recovery container in case it is a brand new one.

2.1.3.3. Collecting controlled substances separately by type and put them into each recovery container using a recovery machine.

2.1.3.4. Controlled substances loaded into a recovery container shall not be more than 80% of the weight (in kg) or 70% of the volume of the recovery container according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using a scale to determine the weight of the recovery container. The weight of collected substances depends on the type and working pressure of controlled substances.

2.1.3.5. Using leak test equipment during the collection of controlled substances.

2.1.3.6. Labelling the recovery container with the following minimum information: refrigerant number, hazard, and warning (if applicable).

2.1.3.7. Placing recovery containers containing collected controlled substances vertically.

2.1.3.8. Keeping a logbook that records at least the following information: full names of technicians, time and place of collection; refrigerant number; weight or volume of controlled substances; number of equipment and products containing controlled substances.

2.2. Regulations on transportation of controlled substances

2.2.1. The transportation of controlled substances must comply with safety measures and law provisions on on fire prevention and fighting.

2.2.2. Controlled substances must be transported on vehicles qualified to participate in traffic in accordance with the law provisions.

2.2.3. Requirements for transportation of controlled substances:

2.2.3.1. In case of using a motorcycle or moped, the controlled substance recovery container must be placed vertically and securely mounted on the cargo rack (behind the driver's seat) of the motorcycle or moped. Size of the recovery container mounted on the motorcycle or moped must comply with the law provisions on road traffic.

2.2.3.2. In case of using an open truck or barge, the controlled substance recovery container must be placed vertically and covered with a tarpaulin to protect such container from sun and rain.

2.2.3.3. In case of using other vehicles, regulations on transportation of chemicals shall be complied with and there must be at least a sensor to detect leakage of controlled substances.

2.2.3.4. Keeping a logbook that records controlled substance transportation activities, containing at least the following information: refrigerant number; weight or volume of controlled substances; time of transportation and place of receipt of controlled substances.

2.2.4. The transportation of controlled substances from collection points for their handling shall comply with the law provisions on management of hazardous waste.

2.3. Regulations on storage of controlled substances

2.3.1. Controlled substances must be stored in recovery containers as prescribed in 2.1.2.2 of this Regulation. Recovery containers must be placed vertically and must not be rolled or exposed to strong force during storage.

2.3.2. A2 and A3 controlled substances having their safety classified according to National Standard TCVN 6739:2015 (ISO 817:2014) on Refrigerants - Designation and safety classification must be stored and preserved as liquefied petroleum gas or flammable gas in accordance with the law provisions on safe storage and preservation of gas.

2.3.3. Requirements for controlled substance storage areas:

2.3.3.1. Having adequate fire fighting equipment in accordance with the law provisions on fire prevention and fighting.

2.3.3.2. Ensuring regular ventilation; preventing direct sunlight, heat sources, and other fire hazards; not injecting flames or high-temperature vapors into controlled substances recovery containers.

2.3.3.3. The floor shall not be sunken to prevent controlled substances from accumulating and causing a hazard to people or causing a fire or explosion if leaked to the outside.

2.3.3.4. Each type of controlled substance must be placed in a separate box or area.

2.3.3.5. In case of storing controlled substances in an enclosed space, there must be at least a sensor to detect leakage of controlled substances.

2.3.4. Keeping a logbook that records controlled substance storage activities, containing at least the following information: refrigerant number; weight or volume of controlled substances; time of receipt of controlled substances.

2.4. Regulations on recycling of controlled substances

2.4.1. Requirements for recycling of controlled substances:

2.4.1.1. Collecting samples of controlled substances from recovery containers as specified in the Appendix A to this Regulation.

2.4.1.2. Identifying controlled substances as specified in the Appendix B to this Regulation.

2.4.1.3. Recycling controlled substances using specialized equipment with appropriate functions to remove non-condensable gases, oil, moisture content, acid content, particulates/solids, volatile impurities and recover controlled substances in their pure forms.

2.4.1.4. Assessing quality of controlled substances after recycling in accordance with Section 2.4.2 of this Regulation.

2.4.2. Assessing quality of controlled substance after recycling:

2.4.2.1. Parameters and methods for determining parameters to assess quality of controlled substances after recycling are provided in Table 1 of this Regulation and detailed in the Appendix C to this Regulation.

Table 1. Methods for determining parameters to assess quality of controlled substances after recycling

 

No.

Parameter

Unit

Determination methods and reference standards

1

Non-condensable gas

% by volume at 25°C

Gas chromatography as guided in Appendix C and Appendix D under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants.

2

Moisture content

ppm

Karl Fisher titration as guided in Appendix C under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants.

3

Volatile impurities

% by weight

Gas chromatography as guided in Appendix C and Appendix D under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants.

4

High boiling residue

% by volume or % by weight

Volumetric method and visual examination as guided in Appendix C under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants.

5

Particulates/solids

Pass/Fail

Goetz bulb and visual examination as guided in Appendix C under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants; National standard TCVN 7329:2003 (ISO 11650:1999) on Performance of refrigerant recovery and/or recycling equipment.

6

Acid content

ppm (calculated as HCl)

Titrate as guided in Appendix C under AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants.

7

Chloride ions

Pass/Fail

Quantitative method as guided in Appendix C under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants.

 

2.4.2.2. Requirements for quality of controlled substances after recycling:

2.4.2.2.1. After being recycled, the controlled substances in their pure forms of which the parameters do not exceed the limits specified in Table 2 of this Regulation shall be considered fit for use according to their original characteristics.

Table 2. Parameters for assessment of quality of pure controlled substances

 

Impurities in the vapor phase

Impurities in the liquid phase

Maximum level of non-condensable gas

Maximum moisture content

Maximum content of other volatile impurities

High boiling residue

Particulates

/solids

Maximum acid content

Chloride ions

Reference point

% by volume at 25°C

Ppm

% by weight

% by volume or % by weight

Pass/Fail

ppm (calculated as HCl)

Pass/Fail

PURE HFC SUBSTANCES

R-134

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-134a

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-143

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-245fa

N/A

20.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-365mfc

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-227ea

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-236cb

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-236ea

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-236fa

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-245ca

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-43-10mee

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-32

1.5

20.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-125

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-143a

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-41

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-152

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-152a

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-23

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

OTHER TYPES

R-21

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-22

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-31

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-116

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-121

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-122

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-123

N/A2

20.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-124

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-141

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-142

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-142b

2.0

15.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-218

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-225

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-225ca

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-225cb

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R1234yf

1.5

10.0

0.9

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-1234ze(E)

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

Note: 1. Chloride ions, pass/fail, about 3 ppm.

          2. N/A = Not applicable

 

2.4.2.2.2. After being recycled, the controlled substances being zeotropes of which the parameters do not exceed the limits specified in Table 3 of this Regulation shall be considered fit for use according to their original characteristics.

Table 3. Parameters for assessment of quality of controlled substances that are zeotropes

 

Impurities in the vapor phase

Impurities in the liquid phase

Maximum level of non-condensable gas

Maximum moisture content

Maximum content of other volatile impurities

High boiling residue

Particulates

/solids

Maximum acid content

Chloride ions

Reference point

% by volume at 25°C

Ppm

% by weight

% by volume or % by weight

Pass/Fail

ppm (calculated as HCl)

Pass/Fail

R-401A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-401B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-404A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-406A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-407A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-407C

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-407F

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-407H

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-408A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-409A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-410A

1.5

20.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-415B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-417A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-422A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-422D

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-427A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-438A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-448A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-449A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-450A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-452A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-452B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-454A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-454B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-454C

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-466A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

R-402B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-403A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-403B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-409B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-411A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-412A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-415A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-416A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-418A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-420A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-407B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-419A

1.5

20.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-421A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-421B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-422B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-422C

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-423A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-424A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-425A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-426A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-428A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-402A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-405A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-410B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-411B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-413A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-414A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-414B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-422E

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-442A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-444A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-444B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-445A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-446A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-447A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-447B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-449B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

Clean

R-453A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-455A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-456

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-457A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

Note: 1. Chloride ions, pass/fail, about 3 ppm.

          2. N/A = Not applicable

 

2.4.2.2.3. After being recycled, the controlled substances being azeotropes of which the parameters do not exceed the limits specified in Table 4 of this Regulation shall be considered fit for use according to their original characteristics.

Table 4. Parameters for assessment of quality of controlled substances that are azeotropes

 

Impurities in the vapor phase

Impurities in the liquid phase

Maximum level of non-condensable gas

Maximum moisture content

Maximum content of other volatile impurities

High boiling residue

Particulates

/solids

Maximum acid content

Chloride ions

Reference point

% by volume at 25°C

Ppm

% by weight

% by volume or % by weight

Pass/Fail

ppm (calculated as HCl)

Pass/Fail

R-507A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-508B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-513A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-513B

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-509A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-508A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-514A

1.5

20.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-515A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

R-516A

1.5

10.0

0.5

0.01

Clean

1.0

No turbidity

Note: Chloride ions, pass/fail, about 3 ppm.

 

2.4.3. Requirements for recycled controlled substances:

2.4.3.1. Recycled controlled substances must meet the quality requirements specified in section 2.4.2.2 of this Regulation.

2.4.3.2. Recycled controlled substances must be stored in recovery containers as prescribed in section 2.1.2.2 of this Regulation, except for the assignment of recovery container colors according to AHRI Guideline N 2017: Assignment of Refrigerant Container Colors; labeled, indicating “[Số hiệu môi chất lạnh] tái chế” (“[refrigerant number] recycled”), hazard and warnings (if applicable). Information on the label must be distinct and insusceptible to blurring and fading.

2.4.3.3. Recycled controlled substances of which the parameters fail to satisfy the quality requirements set out in section 2.4.2.2 of this Regulation shall be handled as prescribed in section 2.6 of this Regulation.

2.4.4. Keeping a logbook that records controlled substance recycling activities, containing at least the following information: refrigerant number; weight or volume of controlled substances, time of recycling, weight or volume of controlled substances before and after recycling.

2.5. Regulations on reuse of controlled substances

2.5.1. The reuse of controlled substances is applicable to organizations and establishments possessing equipment containing controlled substances specified at Point c, Clause 1, Article 17 of Circular No. 01/2022/TT-BTNMT.

2.5.2. The organizations and establishments mentioned in section 2.5.1 of this Regulation shall use on-site rapid measuring instruments to decide to reuse controlled substances in equipment owned by such organizations and establishments.

2.5.3. In case it is necessary to clean controlled substances on site, organizations and establishments shall employ purely mechanical and physical-technical measures and filters to remove oil, water, non-condensable gases, volatile impurities and particulates/solids from controlled substances.

2.5.4. Keeping a logbook that records controlled substance reuse, containing at least the following information: refrigerant number; weight or volume of controlled substances, time of reuse, weight or volume of reused controlled substances.

2.6. Regulations on handling of controlled substances

2.6.1. The handling of controlled substances must comply with the law provisions on hazardous waste management.

2.6.2. Requirements for technology for handling of controlled substances:

2.6.2.1. Complying requirements for technology for handling of hazardous waste in accordance with the law provisions on environmental protection.

2.6.2.2. Encouraging the application of eco- and climate-friendly technology.

 

3. MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS

 

3.1. Regulations on conformity regarding collection, transportation and storage of controlled substances

3.1. Regulations on conformity regarding the collection, transportation, and storage of controlled substances

3.1.1. Certification of conformity regarding the collection, transportation and storage of controlled substances shall comply with method 6 (Assessment and supervision of the management system) as prescribed in Circular No. 28/2012/TT-BKHCN dated December 12, 2012 of the Minister of Science and Technology on declaration of standard conformity and technical-regulation conformity and methods for assessment of conformity with standards and technical regulations (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 28/2012/TT-BKHCN) and Circular No. 02/2017/TT- BKHCN dated March 31, 2017 of the Minister of Science and Technology, amending and supplementing a number of Articles of Circular No. 28/2012/TT-BKHCN (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 02/2017/TT-BKHCN).

3.1.2. Based on the results of conformity assessment regarding the collection, transportation and storage of controlled substances, organizations and establishments shall declare conformity according to this Regulation and other relevant law provisions.

3.2. Regulations on conformity of recycled controlled substances

3.2.1. Certification of conformity of recycled controlled substances shall comply with method 5 or method 7 in accordance with Circular No. 28/2012/TT-BKHCN and Circular No. 02/2017/TT-BKHCN:

3.2.1.1. Method 5 (Testing typical samples and assessing the manufacturing process; supervising through testing samples taken at the manufacturing site or on the market combined with assessment of the manufacturing process) shall apply in the cases where the manufacturing process of the recycling and production establishment is stable and continuous.

3.2.1.2. Method 7 (Testing representative samples and assessing conformity of a batch/lot) shall apply in the cases where the manufacturing process of the recycling and production establishment is intermittent, or the recycling and production and the control of the manufacturing process are carried out separately for each batch/lot or in the cases where the production is in progress and is not completely stable in the initial stage of production.

3.2.2. Organizations and establishments shall declare conformity of recycled controlled substances according to this Regulation and other relevant regulations of law.

3.2.3. The declaration of conformity shall rely on the certification results given by a certification body having registered its conformity services in accordance with the law provisions on standard and regulation conformity and method for assessing conformity with standards and technical regulations.

4. IMPLEMENTATION ORGANIZATION

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, People’s Committees of provinces and centrally-run cities shall disseminate and provide guidelines on application of this Regulation to relevant entities; examine, inspect and impose penalties for violations that arise from the compliance with this Regulation in accordance with the law provisions.

 

APPENDIX A

REGULATIONS ON TESTING SAMPLES

 

1. Preparing sample tubes

Place an empty and clean tube with the open valve in the oven at 110 degrees Celsius for one hour. Remove the tube from the oven while it is still hot, then connect it to a vacuum pump and reduce the pressure to less than 56 kPa. Close the valve, let it cool and weigh the tube.

2. Sampling

Sampling controlled substances from recovery containers must ensure safety regulations and obtain representative samples for analysis.

2.1. Taking samples in the vapor phase

A sample in the vapor phase must be obtained to determine the non-condensable gas composition. The initial temperature must be measured and recorded at the time of sampling. For controlled substances with boiling points almost or higher than ambient temperature (e.g., R-113, R-123, R-141b, R-245fa and R-1233zd(E)), it is not required to determine the non-condensable gas composition.

 2.2. Taking samples in the liquid phase

2.2.1. A sample in the liquid phase must be available for all tests listed in this Regulation, except for the testing to determine the non-condensable gas composition.

2.2.2. The amount of samples put into the container shall reach at least 60%, but no more than 80%, of the tube’s volume at ambient temperature. This process is carried out by weighing the empty tube and the tube containing sample with the controlled substances. When sufficient controlled substances have been filled into the sample tube, close the valve(s) and disconnect the sample tube from the instrument system.

2.2.3. Make sure all connections and wires are dry and vacuumed to avoid contaminating the testing sample.

 

 

APPENDIX B

REGULATIONS ON IDENTIFICATION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

 

1. The identification of controlled substance shall be conducted by gas chromatography to determine substance specificity. The chromatogram of testing samples must be compared with identified substances.

2. The identification of controlled substances that are pure substances, azeotropes (400 - compounds with refrigerant number starting with number 4) or zeotropes (500 - - compounds with refrigerant numbers starting with number 5) shall be conducted by packed column gas chromatography or capillary column gas chromatography as specified in Table 5:

Table 5. Identification Methods for Controlled Substances

 

No.

Identification methods

Controlled substances

1

Capillary column gas chromatography

Applicable to pure controlled substances, including: R-22, R-32, R-113, R-134a, R-141b, R-142b and R-245fa.

2

Packed column gas chromatography

Applicable to pure controlled substances, except those listed in section 1 of this Table.

Applicable to controlled substances being azeotropes (400) and zeotropes (500).

 

2.1. For pure controlled substances including: R-22, R-32, R-113, R-134a, R-141b, R-142b and R-245fa, the purity is determined by capillary column gas chromatography with capillary tube and flame ionization detector (FID). Use a capillary column because in this case some impurities cannot be determined by packed column gas chromatography. The R-31 chromatographic peak signal is obscured by R-22 when analyzed by packed column chromatography, so R-31 is determined separately by capillary column gas chromatography. The largest area of gas components is electronically integrated and quantified by using the area-normalized response coefficient method.

This method is only calibrated for impurities commonly found in R-22, R-32, R-113, R-134a, R-141b, R-142b and R-245fa. Impurities present in the main ingredient in significant concentrations may cause errors.

The procedure for calibrating and determining the purity of controlled substances by capillary column gas chromatograph is guided in Appendix C under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants. For examples of gas chromatograms, see Appendix D under AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants. Report sample component concentrations to the nearest 0.001 % by weight (or to the nearest 1 ppm). In the case where the result is smaller than the individual detection limit, report the smaller detection limit value given.

2.2. For pure controlled substances, except for substances listed in section 2.1 of this Appendix, their specificity is determined by packed column gas chromatography with the liquid phase coated on a solid carrier. Individual components are detected by using a flame ionization detector (FID) or thermal conductivity detector (TCD). Detector area is determined by using a data system capable of calculating integral area and component concentrations quantified based on peak area.

This method is calibrated only for impurities commonly found in new and recycled controlled substances. Impurities present in the main ingredient in significant concentrations may cause errors.

The procedure for calibrating and determining the purity of controlled substances by packed column gas chromatograph is guided in Appendix C under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants. For examples of gas chromatograms, see Appendix D under AHRI standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants. Packed column gas chromatographs have detection limits, reliability of 95% and precision established for each individual instrument. Report the concentration of components in the testing sample to the nearest 0.001% by weight.

2.3. Controlled substances that are zeotropes (400) and azeotropes (500) are analyzed by packed column gas chromatography with the liquid phase coated on a solid carrier. The individual components are detected by using a thermal conductivity detector (TCD). The largest area of gas color from the probe is measured by using a data system capable of calculating area, and component concentrations quantified by using the area integration method.

At the test ambient temperature, mixtures R-13/R-23 of controlled substance R-503, and R-116/R-23 of controlled substance R-508 are both in the gas phase because the critical temperature of these mixtures is low. This method is not applicable to components other than the main component in azeotropes and zeotropes (500).

The procedure for calibrating and determining the purity of controlled substances by packed column gas chromatograph is guided in Appendix C under AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants. For examples of gas chromatograms, see Appendix D under AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerant. Report the concentration of controlled substances in the testing sample to the nearest 0.001 % by weight.

 

APPENDIX C

METHODS FOR DETERMINING PARAMETERS FOR QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

 

1. Non-condensable gases

Samples in the vapor phase must be used to determine non-condensable gases. These gases may appear during transportation of devices to the testing site. The testing method for non-condensable gases is gas chromatography.

The maximum level of non-condensable gases in the vapor phase of the testing sample shall not exceed the maximum value in % by volume at a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.

2. Moisture content

2.1. The moisture content of controlled substances is determined according to the Karl Fisher titration method. The Karl Fisher titration method is based on the redox reaction of water, iodine and sulfur dioxide:

2.2. The solvent is usually a mixture of methanol and a weak organic base (imidazole, pyridine, etc.), with the base used to neutralize the reaction products. In the Karl Fisher titration method, the iodine produced at the anode is proportional to the amount of water introduced, and the end point of bimolecular detection is the first appearance of excess free I2. The added controlled substances will eventually evaporate; The solvent can be used repeatedly until the SO2, or basic solution runs out.

2.3. Oxidizing agents MnO4, Cr2O7-2, H2O2, Fe(III), Cu(II) and reducing agents S-2, Thiosulphates and Sn(II) may interfere with the titration process. Some compounds such as basic oxides and salts of weak acids (e.g. NaHCO3) can form water with Karl Fisher reagent.

2.4. To determine the moisture content in controlled substances, analytical equipment must be used. The structure and process of using analytical equipment are guided in Appendix C under AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants. The sensitivity of analytical equipment according to the Karl Fisher method using 10 g of sample is 1 ppm. To achieve this sensitivity, be careful when handling the sample. Before testing the sample, confirm that the equipment is operating correctly by injecting a measured titration of moisture.

2.5. Carry out the steps to determine moisture content as guided in Appendix C in AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants and the analytical equipment manufacturer's handbook. Report all results to the nearest 1 ppm.

Note: Moisture content results fluctuate erratically and do not comply with technical regulations due to improper sampling. In addition, moisture contamination is more likely to occur when the surrounding environment has relatively high humidity.

3. Volatile impurities

All other volatile and refrigerant impurities must be determined by gas chromatography. The testing sample shall not contain more than 0.5% by weight of volatile impurities, including other controlled substances. Volatile impurities are listed individually.

Note: For impurities R-40 (Methyl Chloride or Chloromethane), the controlled substance must not contain more than 300 ppm of R-40.

4. High boiling residue (also known as non-volatile residue)

4.1. High boiling residues, also known as non-volatile residues, are determined by evaporating a known amount of controlled substances in a Goetz centrifuge tube at ambient or elevated temperatures. The volumetric method measures the residue from a standard volume of the controlled substances after evaporation. Lubricating oils and/or organic acids will be kept by this method. The remaining residue is then weighed or visually observed. If the observed volume is larger than the specified volume, the centrifuge tube is dried at 60 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes and after cooling, the residue volume is measured again. For the determination of weight, the residue is dissolved in a suitable high-purity solvent (e.g., R-141b) and placed in a small aluminum pan. The solvent then is removed by evaporation and the pan is weighed again to determine the weight of the residue.

4.2. Before evaporation, the measured volume of the liquid controlled substances is visually inspected for the presence of insoluble substances such as fibers, rust, dirt, etc. The residue from the high-pressure samples is redissolved in clean solvent, stirred well, and inspected visually for insoluble particles.

4.3. Based on a 100 ml volume of the testing sample, the method will detect 0.01 ml of high boiling residue. This value of 0.01% is the specification for most controlled substances. The detection limit by weight is usually less than 0.01%, due to the sensitivity of the scale and because 0.01 ml of residue (usually being oil) has a weight of less than 0.01 g. Except for very high pressure-controlled substances, the weight of 100 ml of liquid refrigerant is more than 100 g.

4.4. The procedure for analyzing the components of high boiling residues and particulate/solid impurities in controlled substances is guided in Appendix C under AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants.

4.5. The volume fraction of high boiling residues is determined by the formula:

Volume fraction (%)

=

A1.

100

(2)

B1

 

In which:

A1: Volume of residue (ml) in the burette tube.

B1: Volume (ml) of sample added to the centrifuge tube.

Note: In the case of determining the volume of a controlled substance sample with high and very high working pressure, divide the weight of the sample by the density of the liquid controlled substance at the ambient temperature of the sample. The density of the substance is controlled at 25 degrees Celsius as follows:

Table 6. Density of controlled substances at 25 degrees Celsius

No.

Controlled substance

Density (g/ml)

No.

Controlled substance

Density (g/ml)

1.

R-11

1.476

18.

R-401A

1.188

2.

R-12

1.311

19.

R-401B

1.188

3.

R-13

0.907

20.

R-402A

1.151

4.

R-13B1

1.538

21.

R-402B

1.156

5.

R-22

1.194

22.

R-403B

1.150

6.

R-32

0.961

23.

R-404A

1.167

7.

R-113

1.565

24.

R-405A

1.173

8.

R-114

1.456

25.

R-407A

1.142

9.

R-115

1.291

26.

R-407B

1.166

10.

R-123

1.468

27.

R-407C

1.134

11.

R-124

1.364

28.

R-408A

1.062

12.

R-125

1.190

29.

R-409A

1.223

13.

R-134a

1.210

30.

R-410A

1.031

14.

R-141b

1.244

31.

R-500

1.168

15.

R-142b

1.114

32.

R-502

1.217

16.

R-143a

0.946

33.

R-503

0.795

17.

R-152a

0.899

34.

R-507

1.170

 

Report all results to the nearest 0.01% by volume. If the result is lower than 0.01 % by volume, report as “lower than 0.01 % by volume”.

4.6. The weight fraction of a high boiling residue is determined by the formula:

Weight fraction (%)

=

A2.

100

(3)

B2

 

In which:

A2: Weight of the residue (g).

B2: Weight of the testing sample (g).

Note: To determine the weight of a low-pressure sample-controlled substance (R-113, R-123, etc.), multiply the volume by the density of the liquid controlled substance at the ambient temperature. The density of the controlled substance complies with the guidance in Table 6.

Report results to the nearest 0.01% by weight. If the result is lower than 0.01% by weight, report as “lower than 0.01% by weight”.

5. Particulates/solids

Particulates/solids must be identified by visual inspection using a Goetz centrifuge tube before the controlled substance evaporates. If dirt, rust or other particles are found, the testing sample is rated “Fail”.

6. Acid content

6.1. Acid content is tested titrimetrically to detect any substances that can dissolve in water and ionize as acids. Acid content is determined based on the following principle: A quantity of a liquid controlled substance testing sample is added or bubbled through an extraction solvent which is a mixture of toluene, isopropanol and water with bromothymol blue indicator added. The amount of acid is infused into the solvent equal to the amount of sample titrated with Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) to the end point of the indicator. Acid titers are reported in ppm expressed as HCl.

6.2. Ensure there is no tested controlled substance that may interfere with the determination of acid content. The testing must be performed promptly after the indicator solution has been brought to its blue/green endpoint to avoid the effects of atmospheric CO2.

6.3. Equipment specifications and acid content testing procedures are guided in Appendix C under AHRI Standard 700:2014 on Specifications for Refrigerants. The testing requires a sample of 50 g to 60 g and has a detection limit of 0.1 ppm by weight of HCl. When performing an acid content testing, be careful in handling the sample to avoid cross-contamination.

7. Chloride ion

7.1. Controlled substances must be tested for chloride to determine the presence of hydrochloric acid and/or metal chloride. The determination of chloride ion in a controlled substance is based on the precipitation of chloride anion as silver chloride:

A controlled substance is added to a solution of silver nitrate (AgNO3) in methanol. If there is turbidity in the controlled substance, which indicates the presence of chloride, it shall be reported as “Fail”. If there is no turbidity in the controlled substance, which indicates the chloride within the acceptable limits, it shall be reported as “Pass”.

Ensure there is no tested controlled substance that interferes with chloride determination. Weak acid anions may interfere with the determination, but these interferences are not usually present in new or recycled controlled substances. Testing samples containing insoluble oils and lubricants may be slightly hazy or turbid; However, the lubricant or oil levels necessary to display visually observable turbidity are not present in new or recycled controlled substances.

7.2. The sensitivity of the chloride ion testing using 5 ml of sample in 5 ml of methanol containing three drops of saturated AgNO3 is approximately 3 ppm. When performing this testing, be careful in handling the sample to avoid cross-contamination.

Note: This chloride test is only valid if the sample solution being tested is mildly acidic. This prevents the reaction: if the pH of the sample is greater than 7.

7.3. If there is turbidity in the sample, the testing shall be reported as “Fail”. If there is no turbidity in the sample, the testing shall be reported as “Pass”.

Note: For low-pressure refrigerants, pour approximately 25 ml of the controlled substance into a 100 ml beaker and proceed as in the testing procedure above. After adding methanol and saturated AgNO3 solution, stir the mixture for 30 seconds. If there is any turbidity in the methanol layer, the testing result is reported as “Fail”.

7.4. The testing results will show a chloride level of approximately 3 ppm or greater by weight and be rated as “Pass” or “Fail”.

Note: The testing procedure applies to new or recycled controlled substances.

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