Question

In which component of the refrigeration system is the refrigerant stored?

• A. Compressor
• B. Condenser
• C. Evaporator
• D. Receiver

Hint:

The liquid receiver is installed on the high-pressure side of the system, located between the condenser outlet and the expansion valve inlet.
It acts as a surge tank, storing excess liquid refrigerant during periods of low cooling demand.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Industrial refrigeration systems circulate a refrigerant through closed loops to transfer heat.
To accommodate variations in cooling load and hold the refrigerant during maintenance, the system requires a dedicated storage vessel within the high-pressure liquid line.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the function of each component to identify where the refrigerant is stored:
- Compressor: Draws vapor from the evaporator and pumps it to the condenser; it does not store liquid refrigerant.
- Condenser: Transfers heat from the high-pressure vapor to the cooling medium, condensing it into a liquid. While liquid forms here, it does not act as a storage vessel.
- Evaporator: Absorbs heat from the cold space, vaporizing the liquid refrigerant. It must be kept free of excess liquid to prevent liquid slugging in the compressor.
- Receiver (Liquid Receiver):
The receiver is a pressure vessel installed in the liquid line immediately after the condenser.
It serves several critical functions:
1. It stores the liquefied refrigerant leaving the condenser, providing a constant reservoir of liquid for the expansion valve under varying cooling loads.
2. It provides a storage space to hold the entire charge of refrigerant during system maintenance or pump-down procedures.
3. It acts as a liquid seal, preventing vapor from entering the liquid line and reaching the expansion valve.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The liquid refrigerant is stored in the receiver of the refrigeration system.