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Refrigerator-How it works?

Refrigerators are a common house hold equipment. Do you know how it works? Here I am trying to present the working of a refrigerator in simple words.

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The Refrigeration Cycle

Refrigerators use a continuous cycle to keep your food cold. This cycle involves a special fluid called refrigerant that changes between a liquid and a gas state. Here is the basic process:
  • Evaporation: The refrigerant starts as a low-pressure liquid in the evaporator coils inside the refrigerator. As it absorbs heat from the food and the surrounding air, it evaporates into a low-pressure gas. This cooling effect is what keeps your food cold.
  • Compression: The low-pressure refrigerant gas is then compressed by the compressor. This increases the pressure and temperature of the gas.
  • Condensation: The high-pressure, hot gas flows through the condenser coils, usually located on the back or sides of the refrigerator. Here, the heat is released into the surrounding air, and the gas cools down and condenses back into a high-pressure liquid.
  • Expansion: The high-pressure liquid refrigerant flows through a small opening called an expansion valve. This sudden drop in pressure causes the liquid to evaporate again, becoming a low-pressure gas. The cycle then repeats.

Evaporation in Detail

  • Inside the Evaporator Coils: The refrigerant enters the evaporator coils as low-pressure liquid . These coils are located inside the refrigerator compartment.
  • Heat Absorption: The refrigerant absorbs heat from the foods and surrounding air within the refrigerator. This heat causes the liquid refrigerant to evaporate into a low-pressure gas.
  • Temperature Drop: As the refrigerant absorbs heat, it cools down the surrounding air and the food inside the refrigerator.
Think of like this: Imagine sweating on a hot day. As the sweat evaporates from your skin, it absorbs heat from your body, helping you cool down. The refrigerant in the evaporator coil works similarly.

Key Points

  • The lower the pressure of the refrigerant, the easier it evaporates.
  • The evaporation process is crucial for cooling the refrigerator's interior.

Key Components

  • Compressor: This is the heart of the refrigerator, it compresses the refrigerant gas.
  • Evaporator Coils: Located inside the refrigerator, they absorb heat from the food and surroundings.
  • Condenser Coils: Located on the outside of the refrigerator, they release heat into the surrounding air.
  • Expansion Valve: Controls the flow of refrigerant and helps in pressure regulation.
  • Thermostat: Monitors the temperature inside the refrigerator and turns the compressor on and off as needed.
In simple terms, imagine a refrigerator as a heat pump. It takes heat from the inside of the refrigerator and moves it to the outside. This is how it creates a cold environment inside to keep your food fresh.

Commonly used Refrigerants.

Modern refrigerators commonly use these refrigerants:
  • R-130a: This is a widely used hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant known for its efficiency and stability.
  • R-600a: This is a hydrocarbon refrigerant (isobutane) that is gaining popularity due to its low global warming potential and energy efficiency.
Important Note: Older refrigerators may use different refrigerants, some of which have been phased out due to environmental concerns.

Popular Refrigerator brands

Here are some of the most common and popular refrigerator brands:
  • LG: Known for innovation and wide range of features.
  • Samsung: A global leader with sleek designs and advanced technology
  • Whirlpool: A trusted brand with a focus on durability and reliability
  • Haier: Offers good balance of affordability and quality
  • Godrej: A popular brand with a strong presence in the market
This is not an exhaustive list, and other well-regarded brands include:
  • Bosch
  • Electrolux
  • Panasonic
  • Siemens
  • Voltas

Factors to consider before choosing a refrigerator

  • Budget: Prices can vary significantly across brands and models.
  • Size: Choose a size that fits your kitchen space and storage needs.
  • Features: Consider features like frost-free technology, inverter compressors and convertible compartments.
  • Energy efficiency: Look for models with high star ratings for energy savings.
  • Brand reputation: Research the brand's reputation for reliability and customer service.
Hope the information provided here is helpful for a quick reference.

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