Air (non-condensable gas) in an ammonia system will not cause what?

Air, as a non-condensable gas, plays a significant role in the operation of an ammonia refrigeration system. When air enters the system, it can lead to various operational issues. Higher discharge pressure occurs because non-condensable gases do not condense in the condenser and instead contribute to an increase in pressure. Similarly, the presence of non-condensable gases reduces the system's efficiency, as they require the compressor to work harder to achieve the desired refrigerating effect. This inefficiency can also lead to potential compressor failure due to increased stress and operational demands on the compressor.

However, the presence of air in an ammonia system does not lead to lower suction pressure. Instead, non-condensable gases tend to keep the pressure elevated, meaning that the suction pressure may actually remain at normal or even higher levels due to the additional gas. Understanding this dynamic is crucial; recognizing how non-condensable gases behave helps in diagnosing system issues and maintaining optimal operation in ammonia refrigeration systems.