Four Main Refrigeration Component Explained

The refrigeration system consists of four main parts, each with a distinctive design intended to perform a task that is closely connected to the refrigeration cycle. NCCER identifies these components as critical devices for the proper functioning of the system.

1. Compressor:
   In a refrigeration system, the mechanical device converts low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant gas into high, temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas.

   The most common type of compressors:

   1. 1. 1. Reciprocating
         2. Rotary
         3. Axial
         4. Centrifugal
2. Condenser:

   A heat exchanger device that utilizes coils to transfers heat from the refrigerant flowing inside it to the air or water flowing over it.
   

3. Evaporator:
   

   A device that transfers heat from the air flowing over it to the cooler refrigerant flowing through it by utilizing coils.

4. Expansion Valve:

   A device that provides a pressure drop that converts high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant from the condenser into the low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant entering the evaporator 

The most common type of expansion valves:

1. 1. 1. Automatic Valves
      2. Thermostatic Valves
      3. Capillary Tubes
      4. Float Valves

To gain a better understanding of how these components function in the refrigeration cycle click on Understanding the Cycle of Refrigeration