What is the state of the refrigerant when it enters and exits the compressor?

When refrigerant enters a compressor, it is typically in a low-pressure vapor state. This is because, in refrigeration cycles, refrigerants absorb heat from inside the space to be cooled, causing them to evaporate into a vapor. The compressor's role is to compress this low-pressure vapor, increasing its pressure and temperature so that it can then release the absorbed heat outside the system.

As the refrigerant exits the compressor, it is transformed into a high-pressure vapor. The process of compression reduces the volume of the refrigerant while increasing its temperature and pressure, leading it to exit the compressor as a high-pressure vapor. This transformation is crucial for the refrigeration cycle, allowing the refrigerant to release heat effectively in the condenser.

The correct understanding of this process is fundamental for operating engineers, as it directly impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of the refrigeration system.