The Qwik-Freezer kit is easy to use. A specially designed jacket is wrapped around the pipe at the point where the freeze is required. A nozzle on the jacket is then coupled to a cylinder of liquid (CO₂) by means of a high pressure hose. When the liquid (CO₂) is injected into the space between the jacket and the pipe, it immediately expands to form solid carbon dioxide (dry ice) at a temperature of -109° F (-78°C). This low temperature quickly freezes the contents, forming a secure "ice plug" which seals the pipe.

The ice plug forms only in the section of pipe covered by the jacket, so the resulting rise in pressure is very small and there is no damage to the pipe. The technique can be used safely on iron, lead, steel, copper and plastic pipe.

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STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

• Set-Up Preparations
  • Be sure there is enough liquid CO₂ in hand for the job.
  • Be sure there is no flow of water through the pipe.
  • Connect hose to nozzle on jacket and to cylinder.
  • Fit the jacket around the pipe.  Always keep the jacket at least 16" (406mm) or more from the point of repair if a torch is to be used and 24" (609mm) or more from the nearest closed connection.
• Beginning the Freeze
  • Open COB cylinder valve fully and inject liquid CO₂ (for times, see table).
  • During the freezing period distribute the dry ice around the pipe by pressing the jacket firmly or tapping the jacket with the rubber mallet supplied with kit.   Wear gloves & safety glasses.
• Proceeding with Repair
  • Frost forms on the outside of the pipe near the edges of the jacket when the contents are frozen.  The pipe is now sealed by the ice plug and repairs can be carried out.
  • Make an additional injection every 15 minutes.  This procedure will maintain the freeze for as long as required, extra cylinder required.
  • Upon finishing repair, remove jacket and allow pipe to thaw naturally.   Do not use a torch.  The water system should return to normal in a matter of minutes.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

As CO₂ is heavier than air, care should be taken to disperse CO₂ in confined and low lying areas.  Always provide good ventilation in the work area.