What components separate the high side from the low side in a refrigeration system?

In a refrigeration system, the compressor and the thermal expansion valve (TXV) play critical roles in separating the high-side pressure from the low-side pressure. The compressor increases the pressure of the refrigerant, converting it from a low-pressure vapor to a high-pressure vapor as it moves to the condenser. This high-pressure side represents the 'high side' of the system.

Once the refrigerant releases heat in the condenser and turns into a high-pressure liquid, it flows to the thermal expansion valve. The TXV regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator by reducing its pressure and allowing it to expand as it enters the low-pressure side, known as the 'low side' of the system. This strategic separation and control of refrigerant pressures through these components is essential for the efficient operation of refrigeration systems.

While other options mention components integral to refrigeration, they do not serve the specific function of maintaining the separation of pressures between the high and low sides like the compressor and TXV do.