Hi Alloy2, Thanks for the input. You're right, I have no training in this. I understood, when I started that I was dealing just with gaseous NH3. When I had a small explosion, I stopped to do this investigation. I have been very open about it. I asked 3 ammonia fridge manufacturers; the one who responded didn’t know how to help. The other two have not responded.I anonymously, I asked ,..
The Recycling Council of BC
Consulted the Hazardous Waste Regulations of BC
Several businesses in the Hazardous Waste recycling; they said “If you have a barrel of ammonia, we can give you a price in disposing of it but we can offer no advice on removing it from fridges.”
Talked with a professional chemical consultant; he suggested that it is probably the hydrogen that exploded.
The Ministry of the Environment knew nothing.
Waste Management of BC knew nothing.
WorkSafe BC new nothing.

I have just written a letter to BC Safety Authority to get their input.
I did contact the the shop you mentioned in Enderby and he suggested the method that I put forward, that is to turn the unit upside down, let it settle and crack the valve to allow the gas to leak out slowly. He said that he sometimes hacksaws into a line to relieve the pressure.
So, it has been quite a journey. I got very little input from this forum when I started. I understood from one experienced fellow that he used his piercing tool to pierce a line and then bubble the gas into a bucket of water. Sorry, the tool will not pierce a steel line.

I won't go further until the investigation is complete and I hear from BC Safety Authority.



I appreciate your input, Merry Christmas,
Eric