Piston Type Reciprocating Compressor used in Domestic Refrigerator

Piston type reciprocating compressors are widely used in domestic refrigerators due to their compact size, low cost, and high efficiency. Let's understand the working of a piston type reciprocating compressor and why it is suitable for domestic refrigerators.

Working of Piston Type Reciprocating Compressor

The piston type reciprocating compressor works on the principle of positive displacement. It consists of a cylinder, a piston, a connecting rod, and a crankshaft. When the compressor is switched on, the piston moves back and forth inside the cylinder, compressing the refrigerant gas.

The working of the piston type reciprocating compressor can be divided into four stages:

1. Suction Stage: During this stage, the piston moves down, creating a vacuum in the cylinder. The suction valve opens, and the low-pressure refrigerant gas enters the cylinder.

2. Compression Stage: During this stage, the piston moves up, compressing the refrigerant gas. The discharge valve opens, and the high-pressure refrigerant gas is sent to the condenser.

3. Discharge Stage: During this stage, the piston moves further up, pushing the compressed refrigerant gas out of the cylinder and into the condenser.

4. Refrigeration Stage: During this stage, the refrigerant gas is condensed in the condenser, and the high-pressure liquid refrigerant is sent to the evaporator. The expansion valve reduces the pressure of the liquid refrigerant, and it evaporates in the evaporator, absorbing heat from the surrounding.

Why Piston Type Reciprocating Compressor is Suitable for Domestic Refrigerators?

1. Compact Size: The piston type reciprocating compressor is comparatively smaller in size as compared to other types of compressors like centrifugal or axial compressors. It makes it suitable for use in domestic refrigerators, where space is limited.

2. Low Cost: Piston type reciprocating compressor is less expensive to manufacture as compared to other types of compressors, making it a cost-effective solution for domestic refrigerators.

3. High Efficiency: The piston type reciprocating compressor is highly efficient, providing a high coefficient of performance (COP). It means that it can produce more cooling per unit of energy consumed, making it an energy-efficient solution for domestic refrigerators.

Conclusion

The piston type reciprocating compressor is the most commonly used compressor in domestic refrigerators due to its compact size, low cost, and high efficiency. It works on the principle of positive displacement and moves the refrigerant gas in four stages.