What happens if refrigerant migration occurs in a refrigeration system?

When refrigerant migration occurs in a refrigeration system, it typically means that the refrigerant has moved to areas of the system where it is not supposed to be, often due to temperature differences. This can lead to compressor failure for a number of reasons.

First, if refrigerant migrates to the compressor while in a liquid state, it can cause liquid slugging. Compressors are designed to compress vapor, and when liquid enters the compressor, it can result in severe mechanical damage. This can lead to broken compressor components and ultimately system failure.

Additionally, having the refrigerant improperly located can disrupt the lubricating oil's flow, leading to inadequate lubrication of the compressor, which also risks overheating and eventual failure. Therefore, the risk of compressor failure is a significant consequence of refrigerant migration, making this the correct answer to the question.