Compression Systems
Compression systems employ four elements in the refrigeration cycle: compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. In the evaporator the refrigerant is vaporized and heat is absorbed from the material contents or the space being cooled. The vapor next is drawn into a motor-driven compressor and elevated to high pressure , which raises its temperature. The resulting superheated, high-pressure gas is then condensed to liquid in an air- or water-cooled condenser. From the condenser the liquid flows through an expansion valve, in which its pressure and temperature are reduced to the conditions that are maintained in the evaporator.