Question

In a flooded evaporator using an accumulator and float valve, where does flash gas pass?

1) Passes directly into the evaporator
2) Passes directly into the suction line
3) Does not occur
4) Stays in the receiver

Answer 1

In a flooded evaporator system, flash gas bypasses the evaporator and passes directly into the suction line, as the accumulator is designed to prevent liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor thereby protecting it from damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a flooded evaporator system using an accumulator and a float valve, flash gas — which occurs when some refrigerant vaporizes as it experiences a drop in pressure after passing through the expansion valve — is handled in a specific way. While the majority of the liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator to absorb heat and evaporate, the flash gas does not contribute to cooling at this point. Instead, the flash gas passes directly into the suction line. It does this because the accumulator's primary role is to prevent any liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor, which could cause damage. The flash gas, already in a gaseous state, bypasses the evaporator entirely and is drawn into the suction line by the compressor's suction, where it can then be recompressed and continue through the refrigeration cycle.