What is the primary function of a refrigeration compressor?

The primary function of a refrigeration compressor is to compress the refrigerant gas. In a refrigeration system, the compressor plays a crucial role by taking in low-pressure refrigerant gas from the evaporator and compressing it into a high-pressure gas. This compression process increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, allowing it to flow through the system.

As the high-pressure gas moves towards the condenser, the increased pressure facilitates the condensation process, where the refrigerant releases heat and transforms into a liquid state. The efficiency of the refrigeration cycle relies heavily on how effectively the compressor can increase the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant.

Understanding this role is essential for grasping the overall function of a refrigeration system and how each component works together to achieve cooling.