What component is used to control the flow of refrigerant in a refrigeration system?

The component that controls the flow of refrigerant in a refrigeration system is the expansion valve. This device regulates the amount of refrigerant that enters the evaporator, which is critical for maintaining the desired temperature and pressure levels within the system.

When refrigerant passes through the expansion valve, it undergoes a pressure drop, which allows it to expand and cool. This expansion is necessary for the refrigerant to absorb heat from the environment in the evaporator, thus facilitating the cooling process. By controlling the quantity of refrigerant based on the cooling demand, the expansion valve helps optimize the system's efficiency and performance.

In contrast, other components play different roles in the system. The condenser is responsible for rejecting heat from the refrigerant, the compressor raises the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant to circulate it through the system, and the evaporator allows the refrigerant to absorb heat, completing the refrigeration cycle. Each of these components is essential for the overall operation of the system, but it is the expansion valve specifically that regulates refrigerant flow.