Which type of refrigeration cycle is primarily used in commercial refrigeration applications?

The vapor-compression cycle is predominantly utilized in commercial refrigeration applications due to its efficiency and effectiveness in transferring heat. This cycle operates by compressing refrigerant vapor, which raises the refrigerant's pressure and temperature. The high-pressure vapor is then condensed into a liquid state in the condenser by dissipating heat, typically to the surrounding air or water.

After condensation, the liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve, where it experiences a drop in pressure, leading to a temperature reduction. This colder liquid refrigerant then enters the evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the environment, thereby cooling the air or substances within the refrigerated space. The vapor-compression cycle is highly efficient for varying temperature ranges and can easily be scaled for different sizes of refrigeration systems, making it ideal for commercial applications such as supermarkets, restaurants, and convenience stores.

In contrast, while absorption cycles can be used in specific applications like larger commercial setups and in places where waste heat is available, they are less efficient and more complex than the vapor-compression cycle for standard commercial refrigeration. The Rankine cycle is primarily associated with power generation rather than refrigeration. The thermoelectric cycle, while useful in niche applications such as cooling small devices, lacks the capacity and efficiency needed for commercial-scale refrigeration