What Causes Compressor Failure?
2 Answers
Compressor failure is caused by liquid slugging, oil shortage, and insufficient lubrication. Below is an analysis of compressor damage: 1. Liquid Slugging: A phenomenon where liquid refrigerant and lubricating oil are drawn into the compressor cylinder along with gas, damaging the suction valve plates. Reducing or preventing liquid from entering the cylinder can avoid liquid slugging, making it entirely preventable. 2. Oil Shortage and Insufficient Lubrication: The compressor is a high-speed, complex machine. Ensuring adequate lubrication of moving parts such as the crankshaft, bearings, connecting rods, and pistons is a basic requirement for maintaining normal operation.
There are various reasons for compressor failure, and I believe insufficient lubrication is a common starting point. Oil leaks or deterioration in the lubrication system can increase component friction, leading to wear or seizing. Sometimes, metal debris or other foreign objects enter the system, causing internal blockages or scratches, which may also result from system corrosion or improper maintenance. On the electrical side, issues like circuit short circuits or relay failures can prevent the compressor from starting or cause frequent starts and stops. Additionally, refrigerant leaks or overcharging can lead to abnormally high pressure during compressor operation, causing damage over time. Aging is another factor, especially in vehicles that have been in use for many years, where natural wear or improper installation of the compressor occurs. Therefore, it's essential to regularly check lubrication and clean the system to avoid more significant issues. If the air conditioning stops cooling, it's best to have a professional diagnose the problem to prevent minor issues from turning into major troubles.