What is defined as the refrigeration system between the metering device and the compressor?

The refrigeration system between the metering device and the compressor is defined as the low side. In a refrigeration cycle, the low side refers to the area of the system where the refrigerant is in a low-pressure state, typically after it has expanded and cooled through the metering device (such as an expansion valve) and before it enters the compressor. In this section, the refrigerant is generally in a vapor state and is being brought back to the compressor for compression, which then raises its pressure and temperature before entering the high side of the system.

Understanding the concepts of low side and high side in a refrigeration system is crucial since they represent different pressure zones within the system. The high side is associated with areas of higher pressure, typically after the compressor where the refrigerant is in a high-pressure liquid state, while the suction side refers to the section leading into the compressor, particularly focusing on the lower pressure conditions.