Which of the following best describes the operation of the valves of a refrigeration compressor?

Which of the following best describes the operation of the valves of a refrigeration compressor?

• A. They are opened and closed by temperature changes
• B. They are opened and closed by pressure difference
• C. They are always open during operation
• D. They function independently of pressure

Answer: (B)

The operation of the valves in a refrigeration compressor is primarily governed by pressure differences within the system. When the compressor operates, it creates a low-pressure area in the evaporator, which allows refrigerant to enter the compressor when the intake valve opens. As the compressor cycles, the refrigerant is compressed, increasing the pressure inside the compressor, which then causes the discharge valve to open, allowing the high-pressure refrigerant to flow out to the condenser. This mechanism relies heavily on the pressure differential between the suction side (low pressure) and the discharge side (high pressure). The valves are not controlled by temperature changes, nor are they designed to be always open or to function independently of pressure. Instead, they respond dynamically to the variations in pressure that occur during the operation of the compressor, ensuring efficient operation and maintaining the required flow of refrigerant.

The operation of the valves in a refrigeration compressor is primarily governed by pressure differences within the system. When the compressor operates, it creates a low-pressure area in the evaporator, which allows refrigerant to enter the compressor when the intake valve opens. As the compressor cycles, the refrigerant is compressed, increasing the pressure inside the compressor, which then causes the discharge valve to open, allowing the high-pressure refrigerant to flow out to the condenser.

This mechanism relies heavily on the pressure differential between the suction side (low pressure) and the discharge side (high pressure). The valves are not controlled by temperature changes, nor are they designed to be always open or to function independently of pressure. Instead, they respond dynamically to the variations in pressure that occur during the operation of the compressor, ensuring efficient operation and maintaining the required flow of refrigerant.