In which part of the refrigeration system does condensation occur?

Condensation occurs in the condenser, which is a crucial component of the refrigeration cycle. The primary function of the condenser is to dissipate heat absorbed from the refrigerant in the evaporator as it transitions from a gas back into a liquid state.

In the refrigeration cycle, after the refrigerant is compressed in the compressor, it becomes a high-pressure gas. This gas then flows into the condenser, where it releases heat to the surrounding environment, often with the help of a fan or through water cooling. As the refrigerant loses heat, it cools down and changes phase from a gas to a liquid — this process is known as condensation.

This phase change is essential for the refrigeration cycle to continue efficiently, allowing the refrigerant to return to the evaporator as a liquid, where it can absorb heat from the environment to cool it down again. Understanding the role of the condenser is critical for anyone working in commercial refrigeration, as it is vital for the system's overall efficiency and effectiveness.