EPA Section 608 Universal Certification ExamCoreEasy
Which component in a vapor compression refrigeration system is responsible for absorbing heat from the conditioned space and boiling the refrigerant into a vapor?
- AEvaporator
- BExpansion Valve
- CCompressor
- DCondenser
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Evaporator
The evaporator is the component where liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the surrounding area (conditioned space), causing it to boil and change into a low-pressure vapor. This is where the cooling effect occurs.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The expansion valve meters the flow of liquid refrigerant into the evaporator and lowers its pressure.
- C. The compressor increases the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant vapor.
- D. The condenser releases heat from the hot, high-pressure vapor, causing it to condense into a liquid.
Evaporator Function
The evaporator is the heat exchanger in a refrigeration system where liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the conditioned space and changes phase into a vapor.
- Located inside the conditioned space (or freezer).
- Refrigerant boils at a low temperature and pressure.
- This process removes heat from the air or substance being cooled.
- A critical component for achieving the cooling effect.
Memory trick: Cooling happens where the 'E'vaporator is.