Höyrystymispaineistussykliin

Höyrystymispaineistussykliin, often referred to by its Finnish abbreviation HPS, describes a thermodynamic cycle used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems. It is the fundamental operating principle behind most vapor-compression refrigeration cycles. The cycle involves a refrigerant fluid that undergoes continuous phase changes between liquid and vapor states, absorbing and releasing heat in the process.

The cycle typically begins with the compressor, which increases the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant vapor. This high-pressure, high-temperature vapor then enters the condenser. Here, the refrigerant releases heat to the surroundings and condenses into a high-pressure liquid. The liquid refrigerant then flows through an expansion valve, where its pressure and temperature drop significantly. This low-pressure, low-temperature liquid refrigerant then enters the evaporator. In the evaporator, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the space to be cooled, causing it to evaporate into a low-pressure vapor. This vapor then returns to the compressor, completing the cycle.

The HPS is characterized by four main components: the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. The efficiency of the cycle is influenced by factors such as the properties of the refrigerant, the operating pressures and temperatures, and the design of the components. It is a widely adopted technology due to its effectiveness in heat transfer and its relatively low energy consumption compared to some other cooling methods. Applications range from domestic refrigerators and freezers to large-scale industrial cooling and building air conditioning.