RF04 - Vapour Compression Cycle

Areas covered in this module:

  • Compression
  • Condensing
  • Expansion
  • Evaporation
  • Heat Transfer
  • Latent Heat
  • Pressure/Enthalpy Diagram
  • Refrigerant Flow
  • Summary
  • Quiz

Topic Aim

To explain the structure, purpose and operation of the Vapour Compression Cycle using an air-cooled condenser and direct expansion (DX) evaporator.


Topic Objectives

By the end of this topic you will be able to:

  • Describe the purpose and structure of the Vapour Compression Cycle
  • State the four stages of the Vapour Compression Cycle and describe their structure and function.
  • Explain the relationship between pressure and temperature, and its effect on the heat transfer of a refrigerant.
  • Explain how heat is transferred during the evaporation and condensation stages of the Vapour Compression Cycle.

Pre-requisite Study

None