Ag Power Web Enhanced Course Materials

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condenser

The purpose of the condenser is to receive the high-pressure gas from the compressor and convert this gas to a liquid. It does it by heat transfer, or the principle that heat will always move from a warmer to a cooler substance.

• Air passing over the condenser coils carries off the heat and the gas condenses.

• The condenser often looks like an engine radiator.

Condensers used on R-12 and R-134a systems are not interchangeable. Refrigerant-134a has a different molecular structure and requires a large capacity condenser.

As the compressor subjects the gas to increased pressure, the heat intensity of the refrigerant is actually concentrated into a smaller area, thus raising the temperature of the refrigerant higher than the ambient temperature of the air passing over the condenser coils. Clogged condenser fins will result in poor condensing action and decreased efficiency.

A factor often overlooked is flooding of the condenser coils with refrigerant oil. Flooding results from adding too much oil to the system. Oil flooding is indicated by poor condensing action, causing increased head pressure and high pressure on the low side. This will always cause poor cooling from the evaporator.

Too-High condenser Pressure

• Indicated By: Excessive head pressure on high side gauge.

• Caused By: Restriction of refrigerant flow in high side of system or lack of air flow over condenser coils.

Too-Low condenser Pressure

• Indicated By: Higher than normal pressure on low side gauge.

• Caused By: Failed compressor reed valve or piston. Heat exchange in the condenser will be cut down, and the excessive heat will remain in the low side of the system.

Part Identification - condenser