USCG Exam PracticeRefrigeration and air conditioning
Liquid refrigerant returning to the compressor suction is called slugging or liquid floodback. What is the primary mechanical hazard of this condition?
- A. It causes the suction pressure to rise above the high-pressure cutout setting
- ✓ It can break valves, connecting rods, or the crankcase because liquid cannot be compressedCorrect
- C. It washes lubricating oil out of the crankcase, causing immediate bearing failure
- D. It freezes at the metering orifice and starves the evaporator of refrigerant
Why B is correct
NAVEDTRA 14075 §6-2 states that liquid refrigerant cannot be compressed and can break valves, rods, or the crankcase, making it a serious casualty. While oil washout is a related concern, the primary mechanical hazard cited is physical damage from attempting to compress an incompressible liquid.
Cited:NAVEDTRA 14075 §6-2