What defines the pressure drop in a refrigeration system?

The pressure drop in a refrigeration system is defined by the interaction of liquid and vapor refrigerant with the inner walls of the piping. This phenomenon occurs due to resistance encountered as the refrigerant flows through the pipes, which can be influenced by several factors linked to the characteristics of the flow itself.

When refrigerant flows through pipes, it experiences friction against the walls due to its viscosity and the turbulence generated within the flow. This friction results in energy loss, manifesting as a pressure drop. The interaction between liquid and vapor phases can further complicate this relationship, especially in systems where phase changes are occurring, as the behavior of these phases can differ significantly in terms of density and momentum.

While the amount of refrigerant in the system, the temperature of the refrigerant, and the length of piping can all play roles in the overall functionality and efficiency of the refrigeration system, they do not directly define the pressure drop in the same way that the interaction between the refrigerant phases and pipe walls does. Understanding this interaction is crucial for designing efficient piping systems that minimize pressure losses and optimize the overall performance of the refrigeration system.