Which of the following conditions will occur if the power element of the thermostatic expansion valve shown in the illustration loses its charge? GS-RA-07 Illustration GS-RA-07: the U.S. Coast Guard has not released this illustration.

Correct Answer: Option D — The valve will fail closed, providing no cooling capacity.

Loss of the volatile fluid charge in the thermostatic expansion valve power element eliminates the opening force of the bulb pressure. The evaporator pressure and superheat spring force then force the needle valve completely closed, halting refrigerant flow entirely.