Refrigerant state in/at saturation

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SUMMARY

When refrigerant is at saturation, it exists in a state of liquid-vapor equilibrium, comprising both liquid and vapor phases. Specifically, there is a layer of liquid refrigerant at the bottom of the tank or reservoir, with refrigerant vapor occupying the space above it. This phenomenon is crucial for understanding the behavior of refrigerants in HVAC systems. The discussion clarifies that at saturation, the refrigerant does not merely consist of liquid droplets suspended in vapor but rather distinct phases of liquid and vapor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic principles related to phase changes
  • Familiarity with refrigerant properties and behavior
  • Knowledge of HVAC system components and operation
  • Basic concepts of pressure and temperature relationships in refrigerants
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of specific refrigerants, such as R-410A and R-134a
  • Learn about the refrigeration cycle and its phases: evaporation, condensation, and superheating
  • Explore the concept of pressure-temperature relationships in refrigerants using a pressure-enthalpy diagram
  • Investigate the implications of refrigerant saturation on system efficiency and performance
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for HVAC engineers, refrigeration technicians, and students studying thermodynamics or HVAC systems, as it provides insights into the behavior of refrigerants at saturation and its implications for system design and operation.

Brett0
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What does the refrigerant "Look" like at saturation
Hey everyone.

Bit of a random question.
So when refrigerant has been fully condensed I understand that it's a liquid, just like a glass of water, albeit under pressure and with no gas above it.
When the refrigerant has been superheated it's just a gas, like you would get if you took a sealed container of water and heated it above boiling point.
When the refrigerant is saturated and it exists in liquid vapour equilibrium does it exist as a small bit of "standing" liquid in the pipes plus refrigerant vapour above it? or as liquid droplets in the vapour?
 
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Brett0 said:
Summary:: What does the refrigerant "Look" like at saturation

Hey everyone.

Bit of a random question.
So when refrigerant has been fully condensed I understand that it's a liquid, just like a glass of water, albeit under pressure and with no gas above it.
When the refrigerant has been superheated it's just a gas, like you would get if you took a sealed container of water and heated it above boiling point.
When the refrigerant is saturated and it exists in liquid vapour equilibrium does it exist as a small bit of "standing" liquid in the pipes plus refrigerant vapour above it? or as liquid droplets in the vapour?
It exists in both phases, as liquid at the bottom of the tank or reservoir and as vapor above that mass of liquid.

 

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