Refrigeration fundamentals — identify the correct statements. Which of the following statements about absorption/compression systems and sub-cooling is/are correct?
-
AIn vapour absorption refrigeration, mechanical compression of the refrigerant is avoided.
-
BSub-cooling can be increased by circulating more cooling water through the condenser (improved heat rejection).
-
CIn vapour compression refrigeration, vapour is drawn in during suction and (ideally) compressed adiabatically in the compressor.
-
Dall of the above
-
Enone of the above
Answer
Correct Answer: all of the above
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Refrigeration systems can be broadly classified into vapour compression and vapour absorption types. Sub-cooling in the condenser is another practical aspect that affects system capacity and performance. This question checks basic conceptual understanding.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Idealized descriptions are acceptable (e.g., adiabatic/isentropic compression as a model).
- Condenser sub-cooling refers to cooling the liquid below its saturation temperature at the condensing pressure.
Concept / Approach:Absorption systems replace mechanical compression by thermal “compression” using an absorber, pump, generator, and rectifier. Sub-cooling increases the net refrigerating effect by raising the enthalpy difference across the expansion device. In vapour compression, the compressor indeed draws vapour and compresses it (ideally adiabatically/isentropically) to the condensing pressure.
Step-by-Step Solution:(a) True: absorption cycle avoids mechanical compression of the refrigerant itself.(b) True: better condenser heat transfer (e.g., more water flow or lower coolant temperature) raises sub-cooling.(c) True: fundamental description of the compression process.Hence, all statements are correct.
Verification / Alternative check:Cycle diagrams show no compressor in absorption systems; instead, a solution pump is used. p-h charts demonstrate the benefit of sub-cooling.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:Choosing anything other than “all of the above” wrongly denies one or more correct fundamentals.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming sub-cooling is fixed; it depends on condenser performance and ambient conditions.
Final Answer:all of the above