What part of the refrigeration system is responsible for liquefying refrigerant vapor?

The condenser is the component of the refrigeration system that is specifically designed to liquefy refrigerant vapor. In the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant absorbs heat and transforms into vapor within the evaporator. This vapor then travels to the compressor, where its pressure and temperature are increased. Next, the hot, high-pressure vapor enters the condenser, where it releases its heat to the surroundings, typically to the air or water, depending on the system design. As the vapor cools, it undergoes a phase change, condensing back into a liquid state.

The primary function of the condenser is to facilitate this heat exchange process, ensuring that the refrigerant returns to the liquid form to continue the refrigeration cycle. This process is critical for the efficiency and effectiveness of the entire refrigeration system. In contrast, the evaporator functions to absorb heat, the compressor increases pressure and temperature, and the expansion valve regulates refrigerant flow into the evaporator. Each component plays a vital role, but the liquefaction of the refrigerant vapor is the specific responsibility of the condenser.