Condensation-induced shock and vapor-propelled liquid slugging in refrigerant lines

Dangerous pressure excursion incidents in refrigeration equipment have been attributed to condensation-induced shock and vapor-propelled liquid slugging. The initiating mechanisms of these hydraulic shocks are not well understood in refrigeration applications. Due to the implications on public safety, system down-time, repair costs, and product loss there is a need to identify the generic causes and outcomes of these two-phase refrigerant line transients and to develop a rational means to prevent their occurrence through appropriate design or operating methods. The purpose of this report is to describe ongoing research and present preliminary modeling of a recently identified problem in the area of fluid transients.