Compressor and refrigeration system troubleshooting

Troubleshooting

Table 23 Compressor and refrigeration system troubleshooting (continued)

Symptom	Possible Cause	Check or Remedy

	Defective or improperly set	Increase superheat or replace valve
	expansion valve	Increase superheat or replace valve
	expansion valve
Refrigerant flooding	Evaporator fan motor or belt	Correct problem or replace fan motor and/or belts.
	Low condensing pressure	Check head pressure control device

	Slipping belts	Inspect and adjust

Blown valve plate or	Liquid refrigerant floodback or	See Symptom: Flooding
cylinder head in comp.	flooded start	See Symptom: Flooding
cylinder head in comp.	flooded start
	Blown valve plate or cylinder	Replace gaskets. Retorque cylinder head bolts to
	head gasket.	compressor manufacturer's specs.
	Leaky valve plate or worn valve	Replace valve plate assembly
	seats	Replace valve plate assembly
Low compressor	seats
Low compressor	Leaky suction valves	Pump down, remove cylinder head examine valve and valve
capacity or inability to		Pump down, remove cylinder head examine valve and valve
capacity or inability to		seats. Replace if necessary
pull down system		seats. Replace if necessary
pull down system
	Broken connecting rods or	Replace compressor.
	pistons	Replace compressor.
	pistons
	Leaking liquid line solenoid valve	Replace valve if clean; clean out valve if dirty.
	or dirt in valve	Replace valve if clean; clean out valve if dirty.
	or dirt in valve
	Slugging due to floodback of	See Symptom: Flooding
	refrigerant	See Symptom: Flooding
	refrigerant
	Bearings wiped because of loss	See Oil Pressure. Check for defective oil failure control.
	of oil	See Oil Pressure. Check for defective oil failure control.
Compressor noisy	of oil
Compressor noisy	Loose compressor or piping	Tighten clamps.
	Loose compressor or piping
	support
	support

	Broken connecting rods, valves	Replace compressor
	or other running gear	Replace compressor
	or other running gear
Pipe rattle	Loose pipe connections	Check pipe connections

	Blown valve plate or cylinder	See Symptom: Blown Valve Plate
	head gasket	See Symptom: Blown Valve Plate
	head gasket
	Broken suction or discharge	Replace valves and valve plate, if necessary.
	valve	Replace valves and valve plate, if necessary.
	valve
Compressor running hot	Compression ratio too high	Check setting of high and low pressure switches. Check
	Compression ratio too high	condenser-- is it plugged? Check that all evaporator and
		condenser fans are operating properly.
	Excessive blow-by into
	crankcase -work rings, valves, or	Replace gasket, valve plate, or compressor
	blown gasket
	Low-pressure switch erratic in	Check tubing to switch to see if clogged or crimped Check
	operation	for proper switch operation
	Insufficient refrigerant in system	Check for leaks, fix, and add refrigerant

Compressor cycles	Suction service valve closed	Open valve.

	Insufficient water flowing through
intermittently	Insufficient water flowing through
intermittently	condenser or clogged	Adjust water regulating valve to condenser. Clean
	condenser or clogged	Adjust water regulating valve to condenser. Clean
	condenser, or dirty air cooled	condenser.
	condenser coils
	Discharge service valve not fully	Open valve
	open	Open valve
	open

VE, DH, VH, DE specifications

Emerson is a well-known brand in the field of automation solutions, offering a range of products that cater to various industries. Among its diverse portfolio, Emerson’s products like DE (Digital Electronics), VH (Variable Frequency Drives), DH (Distributed Control Systems), and VE (Valve Positioners) stand out for their advanced features, cutting-edge technologies, and unique characteristics.

Digital Electronics (DE) from Emerson represents the backbone of modern automation systems. These devices are characterized by their highly reliable digital communication capabilities, providing robust solutions for process monitoring and control. DE products integrate seamlessly with various automation platforms, allowing for easy data exchange and system interoperability. The advanced analytics embedded in these systems enable predictive maintenance strategies, enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Variable Frequency Drives (VH) are integral to motor control technologies, maximizing energy efficiency in various applications. Emerson's VH drives are designed for flexibility, supporting multiple motor types and configurations. These drives utilize pulse width modulation (PWM) technology, allowing for precise speed control and improved application performance. Their built-in protection features help extend motor life, prevent downtime, and reduce maintenance costs. Furthermore, the user-friendly interfaces of VH drives facilitate quick setup and troubleshooting.

Distributed Control Systems (DH) from Emerson provide a holistic approach to managing complex industrial processes. They enable centralized control while ensuring that local operations continue seamlessly. DH systems are characterized by their modular architecture, making them highly scalable and adaptable to changing operational needs. Advanced control algorithms within these systems help optimize processes, ensuring maximum productivity. Additionally, their enhanced cybersecurity features protect critical industrial operations from potential threats.

Emerson's Valve Positioners (VE) play a crucial role in regulating flow and pressure in various processes. These devices provide precise positioning capabilities, enhancing the performance of control valves. The VE systems incorporate smart technologies such as adaptive control and diagnostics, allowing them to self-tune and deliver accurate performance over time. Their compact design and robust build ensure they operate effectively in challenging environments.

In summary, Emerson's DE, VH, DH, and VE offerings embody the latest innovations in automation technology. Their main features, including digital communication, energy efficiency, scalability, and precision control, cater to the diverse demands of modern industries. With these products, Emerson not only enhances operational efficiency but also paves the way for intelligent automation solutions that are crucial for the future of industrial processes.

Table 23 Compressor and refrigeration system troubleshooting (continued)

Symptom

VE, DH, VH, DE specifications