Tecumseh AH5540E Service Handbook page 105

Liquid floodback can be prevented by the application of a properly designed and sized suction
line accumulator (see Figures 6-13 and 6-14 below and "Accumulator Selection" on page 98).
When properly selected based upon system charge, a suction line accumulator will improve com-
pressor reliability and endurance by preventing damaging liquid refrigerant floodback. Note that
liquid refrigerant accumulation in the compressor can also be caused by liquid migration to the
compressor during periods of shutdown. This condition can be controlled by the application of
a crankcase heater. A suction line accumulator does nothing to prevent liquid migration and a
crankcase heater does nothing to prevent liquid floodback. Each without the other is half a job.
Both together provide balanced compressor protection.
High Pressure Gas
High Pressure Liquid
Low Pressure Liquid
Low Pressure Gas
Compressor
FIGURE 6-13:
Application of a properly designed and sized suction line accumulation.
FIGURE 6-14:
A suction line accumulator prevents damaging liquid refrigerant floodback
Filter
Evaporator
Accumulator
Crankcase
Heater
Fan Fan
Condenser
Expansion Device
97
.