What happens if a reciprocating compressor constantly receives liquid refrigerant?

When a reciprocating compressor constantly receives liquid refrigerant, it can lead to a number of detrimental effects on both the compressor and the refrigeration system. The primary issue is that a reciprocating compressor is designed to compress gaseous refrigerants, not liquids. If liquid refrigerant enters the compressor, it can cause hydraulic lock, where the liquid doesn't compress and prevents the compressor from functioning properly. This leads to a reduction in the overall capacity of the compressor since it cannot effectively compress the refrigerant gas as intended.

Additionally, the presence of liquid refrigerant can cause increased wear and tear on the compressor components, potentially leading to premature failure. It can also result in inefficiencies within the entire refrigeration system, as the compressor struggles to operate under these conditions.

In contrast, other outcomes suggested in the incorrect options do not occur in this scenario. For instance, while the compressor may not operate at full capacity, it can lead to mechanical failure rather than simply an increase in temperature or freezing, as liquid refrigerant does not inherently cause freezing in this manner. Overall, the constant inflow of liquid refrigerant significantly reduces the performance of the compressor and disrupts the normal operation of the refrigeration cycle.