Which component in a refrigeration system is responsible for storing refrigerant during charging?

In a refrigeration system, the component responsible for storing refrigerant during the charging process is the receiver. The receiver is a storage tank specifically designed to hold excess refrigerant that is not immediately needed in the system. This is particularly important during the charging process, where the system is being filled with refrigerant to ensure there is adequate supply for effective operation.

The receiver also plays a crucial role in separating the liquid and vapor phases of the refrigerant, allowing for a steady supply of liquid refrigerant to the expansion valve. This helps maintain pressure and optimize the overall efficiency of the refrigeration cycle. The receiver is typically located between the condenser and the expansion valve in a refrigeration system.

Other components like the condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve have distinct functions in the refrigeration cycle but do not serve the purpose of storing refrigerant during charging. The condenser is responsible for dissipating heat and condensing refrigerant from vapor to liquid, while the evaporator facilitates heat absorption by allowing refrigerant to evaporate. The expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator but does not store refrigerant.