What constant condition does a thermostatic expansion valve (TEV) maintain in the evaporator?

A thermostatic expansion valve (TEV) is designed to maintain a specific condition within the evaporator known as superheat. Superheat refers to the temperature increase of the refrigerant vapor above its boiling point at a given pressure. This is critical because it ensures that only vapor enters the compressor, preventing potential liquid damage to the compressor.

By regulating the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator based on the superheat sensed at its outlet, the TEV optimizes refrigeration performance. When the superheat is too low, the TEV allows more refrigerant to flow in, while if the superheat is too high, it reduces the refrigerant flow. This balancing act helps maintain efficient refrigeration cycles and improves the overall performance of the system.

In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of the refrigeration cycle. While temperature and pressure are also important in the operation of the refrigeration system, the main function of the TEV is not to maintain a constant temperature or pressure per se, but to adjust the amount of refrigerant based on the superheat condition. Liquid level is relevant to systems using flooded evaporators or receivers, but it is not a function of the TEV. Therefore, the TEV specifically focuses on maintaining the appropriate level of super