What does the compressor in a refrigeration system primarily draw from the evaporator?

The compressor in a refrigeration system primarily draws low-temperature, low-pressure vapor from the evaporator. In the refrigeration cycle, the evaporator is where the refrigerant absorbs heat from the surroundings and evaporates, turning from a liquid into a vapor. This vapor is typically at low temperature and low pressure because it has just absorbed heat and has not been compressed yet.

When the compressor takes in this vapor, it compresses it to a higher temperature and pressure, enabling the refrigerant to release heat in the condenser that follows. By ensuring that the compressor uses low-temperature, low-pressure vapor from the evaporator, the refrigeration system operates efficiently, maintaining the cooling effect that is essential for refrigeration applications. This key function of the compressor highlights its role in the cycle, emphasizing the importance of the properties of the refrigerant it processes.