The process of increasing the pressure of a refrigerant vapor, followed by its conversion to a liquid state through heat rejection, is fundamental to vapor-compression refrigeration cycles. The compressor raises the refrigerant’s pressure and temperature, resulting in a superheated vapor. Subsequently, this high-pressure, high-temperature vapor enters the condenser, where it releases heat to the surrounding environment, causing it to transition into a high-pressure liquid.
This phase change is essential for effective heat transfer, enabling refrigeration systems to absorb heat from one location and reject it to another. The efficiency and cooling capacity of these systems are directly impacted by the effectiveness of these two stages. Historically, improvements in compressor design and condenser technology have significantly enhanced the performance and environmental impact of refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
