What happens if liquid refrigerant enters the compressor instead of vapor refrigerant?

When liquid refrigerant enters the compressor instead of vapor refrigerant, the primary concern is the risk of compressor damage. Compressors are designed to compress only vapor; liquid refrigerant can cause several issues. For instance, when liquid enters the compressor, it can create a condition known as liquid slugging. This occurs because the compressor is not equipped to compress liquid, leading to hydrodynamic forces that can damage the internal components.

Compressor components such as pistons, crankshafts, or valves are particularly vulnerable to damage from the high pressures and mechanical forces generated when attempting to compress a liquid instead of a gas. This can result in bent rods, broken seals, or even complete compressor failure. Therefore, the presence of liquid refrigerant in the compressor leads to operational inefficiencies and can significantly shorten the lifespan of the compressor, making it vital to maintain proper refrigerant management within the system to ensure it remains in the vapor state as intended.