The static setting of a thermostatic expansion valve is based on what measurement?

The static setting of a thermostatic expansion valve is determined by degrees of superheat. This measurement relates to the temperature increase of refrigerant vapor after it has completely evaporated and is transitioning into the vapor phase before reaching the compressor. The superheat setting ensures that the refrigerant is completely vaporized before entering the compressor, preventing liquid refrigerant from causing damage due to liquid slugging.

Adjusting the superheat allows technicians to control the amount of refrigerant that is allowed to flow into the evaporator coil, optimizing system efficiency and performance. A proper degree of superheat helps maintain the balance in the refrigeration cycle, ensuring that the compressor operates under safe and effective conditions.

The other options, though related to system function, do not directly pertain to the static setting of the valve. Degrees of saturation, pressure differential, and refrigerant flow rate might be important in different contexts, but they do not specifically define the static setting of a thermostatic expansion valve like degrees of superheat do.