What should an operator do if a compressor takes a slug of liquid ammonia and begins hydraulically pounding?

When a compressor experiences hydraulic pounding due to a slug of liquid ammonia, the safest and most prudent course of action is to shut it off and notify management immediately. Hydraulic pounding can lead to significant mechanical damage to the compressor, as the liquid does not compress like gas, causing extreme pressure fluctuations and potential failures.

Shutting down the compressor helps prevent further damage and ensures that appropriate safety protocols can be enacted. Notifying management is crucial because they can facilitate the proper procedures for handling ammonia and assess the entire system for any issues related to liquid carryover or other operational failures. This response prioritizes safety and equipment integrity, which is critical in handling hazardous materials like ammonia.

Continuing to operate the compressor could exacerbate the problem, while increasing the pressure may worsen the situation or lead to more dangerous scenarios. Checking liquid ammonia levels, while important, is a secondary action that should be performed as part of the investigation or troubleshooting process after addressing the immediate risk of the compressor operation.