Which compressor design is least likely to be damaged by small amounts of liquid refrigerant slugging?

The scroll compressor design is least likely to be damaged by small amounts of liquid refrigerant slugging due to its unique construction and operating principles. Scroll compressors work by compressing refrigerant in a series of gradually diminishing pockets formed between two spiral scrolls. This design allows them to handle liquid refrigerant more effectively than other types of compressors.

When liquid refrigerant enters a compressor, it can cause hydraulic lock and mechanical damage in traditional designs, particularly where moving parts must manage both gas and liquid phases. However, scroll compressors are less sensitive to this phenomenon thanks to their ability to compress refrigerant continuously and smoothly. Their design minimizes the impact of liquid in the suction line because the scroll mechanism allows some liquid to be re-evaporated before it is compressed.

In contrast, other compressor types, such as reciprocating and rotary compressors, have more stringent requirements regarding the state of the refrigerant. These designs often rely on specific pressure and temperature conditions for optimal operation. In the case of liquid slugging, these designs can suffer mechanical failures due to the pressure spikes and rapid changes in refrigerant state that can occur, making them more vulnerable to damage when liquid refrigerant enters the system.

The screw compressor, while robust and efficient, still faces potential issues with