Kompressioonkülmutust
Kompressioonkülmutust, known in English as compression refrigeration, is a widely used refrigeration cycle. It operates by compressing a refrigerant gas, which raises its temperature and pressure. This hot, high-pressure gas then passes through a condenser, where it releases heat to the surroundings and liquefies. The liquid refrigerant then flows through an expansion valve, causing a significant drop in pressure and temperature. This cold, low-pressure liquid refrigerant then enters the evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the space to be cooled, turning back into a gas. The cycle then repeats as the gaseous refrigerant is drawn back into the compressor. This process effectively transfers heat from a colder area to a warmer area, achieving cooling. Key components of a compression refrigeration system include the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. The choice of refrigerant is crucial and depends on factors such as operating pressure, temperature requirements, and environmental impact. This technology is fundamental to many refrigeration applications, including domestic refrigerators, air conditioners, and industrial cooling systems.