2.2. Cycle Steps

Try these first

1. 1.

   What happens to refrigerant vapor during isentropic compression?

   Hint

   Think about what compression does in general.

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of the condenser in the VCR cycle?

   Hint

   It cools the vapor down.

3. 3.

   What is the first step of the VCR cycle?

   • Isobaric Evaporation
   • Isentropic Compression
   • Isenthalpic Expansion

   Hint

   Remember the initial phase that starts the cycle.

4. 4.

   True or False: In isenthalpic expansion, there is a change in enthalpy.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about what 'isenthalpic' means.

5. 5.

   A refrigeration system aims to increase its COP. List and explain three methods to improve the VCR cycle's performance.

   Hint

   Consider improvements in both the refrigeration cycle and component designs.

6. 6.

   Explain how pressure drops in piping and heat exchangers reduce the efficiency of a VCR system. What can be implemented to minimize these drops?

   Hint

   Think about how smooth operations can enhance performance.