USCG Exam PracticeAir conditioning, ventilation, and compressed air
Liquid refrigerant returning to the compressor suction — a condition known as slugging or liquid floodback — is hazardous primarily because:
- A. Liquid refrigerant raises suction pressure and trips the high-pressure cutout
- ✓ Liquid cannot be compressed and can break valves, connecting rods, or the crankcaseCorrect
- C. Liquid refrigerant dissolves crankcase oil, causing bearing failure
- D. Liquid floodback causes the condenser to flood and lose capacity
Why B is correct
NAVEDTRA 14075 §6-2 explains that liquid refrigerant cannot be compressed and can break valves, rods, or the crankcase, describing it as a serious casualty. While oil dilution is a related concern, the primary mechanical hazard cited is the incompressibility of liquid causing physical damage.
Cited:NAVEDTRA 14075 §6-2