What does a receiver do in a refrigeration system?

The role of a receiver in a refrigeration system is crucial for maintaining an efficient operation. A receiver acts as a storage vessel for the refrigerant in its liquid state, ensuring that there is an adequate supply of refrigerant available to meet the system’s varying load demands. By having a reservoir of unused refrigerant, the receiver allows for smoother fluctuations in the refrigeration load without causing pressure drops or inefficiencies in the system.

Additionally, the receiver helps to separate any vapor from the liquid refrigerant, ensuring that only liquid refrigerant is sent to the expansion device. This is important because sending vapor through the expansion device can lead to inefficiencies and potential damage to the system. The presence of the receiver allows the system to adjust its operation based on immediate demands while maintaining proper refrigerant flow, ultimately contributing to the reliability and efficiency of the refrigeration cycle.