🔍 Key Concepts

• Function of discharge reed valves in a reciprocating refrigeration compressor • What happens to compressor efficiency and capacity when discharge valves leak • Why you should NOT try to "compensate" by throttling valves or readjusting safety cut-outs

💭 Think About

• Think about the basic job of a discharge reed valve in the compression cycle. If it leaks, how is the gas path affected during compression and discharge? • If a component is mechanically defective and causing loss of capacity, is it better practice to modify safety settings/line valves, or to correct the defective part? • Which options involve changing normal/safety settings to mask a problem, and which option addresses the root cause of the leaking?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which answer choice directly addresses a mechanical defect in the compressor, rather than trying to hide or work around it • Eliminate any options that involve defeating or altering safety devices (like cut‑outs) just to keep equipment running • Consider standard marine engineering practice: when a valve in a compressor is leaking badly, what is the proper maintenance action?