What is the primary function of the evaporator in a refrigeration system?

The primary function of the evaporator in a refrigeration system is to absorb heat. In this critical component, refrigerant fluid enters as a low-pressure liquid and absorbs heat from the surrounding environment—such as the air inside a refrigerator or the air in a building being cooled. As the refrigerant absorbs this heat, it evaporates, turning into a gas. This process is essential for the refrigeration cycle, as it removes heat from the area that needs to be cooled, effectively lowering its temperature.

The heat absorption process enables the refrigeration system to create a cooling effect, which is why the evaporator is often referred to as the "cooling coil" in many applications. Understanding the evaporator's role helps in interpreting the overall cycle of refrigeration, where heat is effectively transferred out of a space, making it cooler for comfort or preservation purposes.