What is the primary function of an accumulator in a refrigeration system?

The primary function of an accumulator in a refrigeration system is to collect liquid refrigerant to prevent it from entering the compressor. In a refrigeration cycle, refrigerant transitions between liquid and vapor states. The compressor is designed to handle only vapor; if liquid refrigerant enters the compressor, it can cause mechanical damage resulting from liquid slugging, which can severely harm the compressor's operation and longevity.

The accumulator acts as a reservoir that holds any liquid refrigerant that may not have evaporated into a vapor before it reaches the compressor. By ensuring that only vapor enters the compressor, the accumulator protects it while also helping maintain an efficient refrigerant cycle.

Understanding the design and purpose of the accumulator is crucial for proper maintenance and troubleshooting in refrigeration systems, as it plays a key role in preventing operational issues caused by the presence of liquid refrigerant in the compressor.