In an absorption chiller, what is the flow cycle of the refrigerant?

In an absorption chiller, the flow cycle of the refrigerant follows a specific path that is vital for its operation. The correct flow cycle begins at the condenser, where the refrigerant, in a gaseous state, releases heat and condenses into a liquid. This liquid refrigerant then moves to the evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the environment, causing it to evaporate and turn back into a gas.

After the refrigerant has evaporated, it is drawn into the absorber. Here, it combines with a lithium bromide solution or another absorbent. The refrigerant is absorbed, creating a solution that is rich in refrigerant. This solution then travels to the generator, where heat is applied. This heat causes the refrigerant to boil off from the lithium bromide solution, returning to its gaseous state and completing the cycle.

This flow cycle effectively utilizes thermal energy to produce cooling, showcasing the unique operation of absorption chillers as opposed to conventional vapor-compression chillers. The sequential nature of this cycle is crucial for understanding how absorption chillers function and the role each component plays in the cooling process.