What is the main operational hazard associated with running a compressor that takes liquid ammonia?

The primary operational hazard linked to a compressor handling liquid ammonia is potential hydraulic pounding. This phenomenon occurs when liquid ammonia enters the compressor when it is not designed to handle liquid phases effectively. Compressors are typically designed to compress gases; when liquid is ingested, it can lead to a rapid increase in pressure within the cylinder, potentially causing mechanical damage or failure.

Hydraulic pounding can occur if the system is not adequately designed to vaporize the ammonia or if the liquid ammonia does not have proper separation before entering the compressor. This leads to devastating impacts, such as bent rods, damaged valves, or even total compressor failure, representing a significant safety hazard and operational risk.

While issues such as motor overheating, excessive fuel consumption, and corrosion can occur in various systems, they do not present the same immediate and catastrophic risk associated with hydraulic pounding in compressors dealing with liquid ammonia. Hence, understanding the risk of hydraulic pounding is crucial for safe operation and maintenance of ammonia compressors.