Phase of refrigerant crossing heat exchanger devices

In summary, when a refrigerant passes through a heat exchanger and has heat added to it, it will reach its boiling point and turn into a low pressure vapor. This allows for cooling to occur and the heat is released through the condenser. It is important to remember that the boiling point of a refrigerant is not the atmospheric boiling point, but rather the saturation temperature at the pressure in the evaporator. Additionally, the saturation states of a refrigerant refer to the curve of temperature versus pressure at which the liquid and vapor can exist in thermodynamic equilibrium.
  • #1
masihsamara
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0
When a refrigerant crosses a heat exchanger device or has some heat added into it, like condenser/evaporator or boiler/cooling tower, does the phase always change? If that's so, why? Or do we need to check if the temperature is above or under the boiling point?
 
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  • #2
IF the refrigerant is at the vapour/liquid equilibrium, then yes: some of the stuff evaporates when heat is added. Note the IF.
 
  • #3
When a Refrigerant goes through a heat exchanger, it begins to absorb heat. When it reaches it's boiling point there is where the cooling begins, it turns into a low pressure vapour with the aborbed heat in it and releases the heat through the condenser( Did that help)?
 
  • #4
Atomic80 said:
When a Refrigerant goes through a heat exchanger, it begins to absorb heat. When it reaches it's boiling point there is where the cooling begins, it turns into a low pressure vapour with the aborbed heat in it and releases the heat through the condenser( Did that help)?
This should not be considered the atmospheric boiling point; it is the saturation temperature at the pressure in the evaporator.
 
  • #5
Chestermiller said:
This should not be considered the atmospheric boiling point; it is the saturation temperature at the pressure in the evaporator.
 
  • #6
You need to remember also that Refrigerants have low boiling point, in the negatives to be exact so it's the actual boiling point of the gas? Saturation temperature happens when the refrigerant cools from a gas to a liquid in it's high pressure state. Isn't that so?
 
  • #7
Atomic80 said:
You need to remember also that Refrigerants have low boiling point, in the negatives to be exact so it's the actual boiling point of the gas? Saturation temperature happens when the refrigerant cools from a gas to a liquid in it's high pressure state. Isn't that so?
No. The saturation states of a refrigerant refer to the curve of temperature versus pressure in which the liquid and vapor can simultaneously exist in thermodynamic equilibrium.
 
  • #8
Chestermiller said:
No. The saturation states of a refrigerant refer to the curve of temperature versus pressure in which the liquid and vapor can simultaneously exist in thermodynamic equilibrium.
 
  • #9
So in this case, during evaporation, condensation.
 
  • #10
Atomic80 said:
So in this case, during evaporation, condensation.
Sure.
 
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1. What is a heat exchanger?

A heat exchanger is a device that transfers thermal energy between two or more fluids at different temperatures. It is commonly used in refrigeration systems to remove heat from the refrigerant and maintain a cooler temperature.

2. How does a heat exchanger work in a refrigeration system?

In a refrigeration system, a heat exchanger works by utilizing the refrigerant's ability to change phases from a liquid to a gas and vice versa. As the refrigerant passes through the heat exchanger, it absorbs heat from the surrounding environment, causing it to evaporate and turn into a gas. The hot gas is then compressed and cooled, releasing the heat into the outside air. The cooled gas then condenses back into a liquid and the cycle repeats.

3. What is the purpose of the phase of refrigerant crossing a heat exchanger?

The phase of refrigerant crossing a heat exchanger is an essential step in the refrigeration cycle. It allows the refrigerant to absorb heat from the surrounding environment and transfer it to the outside, keeping the inside of the refrigeration system cool. This process is crucial for maintaining the desired temperature and ensuring the proper functioning of the refrigeration system.

4. How does the phase of refrigerant affect the efficiency of a heat exchanger?

The phase of refrigerant crossing a heat exchanger has a significant impact on its efficiency. If the refrigerant does not change phases properly, it can lead to an imbalance in the system, causing it to work harder and less efficiently. This can result in higher energy consumption and increased wear and tear on the heat exchanger, leading to potential malfunctions and breakdowns.

5. What are some common issues with the phase of refrigerant crossing a heat exchanger?

Some common issues with the phase of refrigerant crossing a heat exchanger include improper phase change, buildup of contaminants or air in the refrigerant, and inadequate heat transfer. These issues can result in reduced efficiency, higher energy consumption, and potential damage to the heat exchanger. Regular maintenance and proper operation can help prevent these problems and ensure the smooth functioning of the refrigeration system.

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