CONDENSER - SARKARI LIBRARY

Page Contents

What is the function of a condenser in a refrigeration system?
→ It removes heat from high-pressure refrigerant vapor and converts it into liquid.
What are the three main types of condensers?
→ Air-cooled, water-cooled, and evaporative condensers.
Which condenser type is commonly used in domestic refrigerators and air conditioners?
→ Air-cooled condenser.
Which condenser type is used in large industrial applications?
→ Water-cooled condenser.
Which type of condenser requires both air and water for cooling?
→ Evaporative condenser.
What is the primary advantage of a water-cooled condenser over an air-cooled condenser?
→ Higher efficiency and better heat transfer.
What is the disadvantage of water-cooled condensers?
→ Requires a continuous water supply and maintenance.
Why are air-cooled condensers preferred for small applications?
→ They are easy to install and do not require a water source.
Which component helps in heat transfer in an air-cooled condenser?
→ Fins and tubes.
Where is the condenser located in a window air conditioner?
→ At the back of the unit to expel heat outside.

What are the main components of an air-cooled condenser?
→ Tubes, fins, fans, and refrigerant piping.
Which material is commonly used for condenser fins?
→ Aluminum.
Which material is commonly used for condenser tubes?
→ Copper.
What is the purpose of fins in an air-cooled condenser?
→ To increase surface area for better heat transfer.
How does air movement affect the efficiency of an air-cooled condenser?
→ Higher airflow improves heat dissipation and efficiency.
What type of fans are used in air-cooled condensers?
→ Axial and centrifugal fans.
What is the role of a fan in an air-cooled condenser?
→ It forces air over the condenser coils to remove heat.
What is the impact of dirt accumulation on condenser fins?
→ It reduces heat transfer efficiency and cooling capacity.
Why are air-cooled condensers used in car air conditioning?
→ They are compact and use outside air for cooling.
What type of condenser is used in a split air conditioner?
→ Air-cooled condenser with a fan-coil unit.

What is the unit of condenser capacity?
→ Tons of refrigeration (TR) or kilowatts (kW).
What factors determine the capacity of an air-cooled condenser?
→ Heat rejection rate, airflow rate, and temperature difference.
How is the heat rejection rate calculated for a condenser?
→ Heat rejection (kW) = Cooling capacity (kW) + Compressor power (kW).
What is the general ratio of condenser capacity to evaporator capacity?
→ Approximately 1.25 to 1.35 times the evaporator capacity.
Why is the condenser heat rejection rate higher than the cooling effect?
→ Because it includes both the absorbed heat and compressor work.
How does ambient temperature affect air-cooled condenser capacity?
→ Higher ambient temperature reduces heat transfer efficiency.
Why is subcooling important in condenser operation?
→ It ensures the refrigerant is fully condensed before expansion.
How can the condenser efficiency be improved?
→ By increasing airflow, cleaning fins, and ensuring proper refrigerant charge.
What happens if condenser coil length is increased?
→ Heat transfer improves, but pressure drop may increase.
How does fan speed affect the performance of an air-cooled condenser?
→ Higher fan speed increases airflow, improving heat dissipation.

What happens when a condenser is choked with dust or debris?
→ It reduces heat dissipation and increases compressor load.
How does a choked condenser affect system pressure?
→ It increases the discharge pressure of the compressor.
What is the impact of a choked condenser on energy consumption?
→ It increases energy consumption due to inefficient cooling.
What are common signs of a choked condenser?
→ High compressor discharge pressure, reduced cooling, and overheating.
What happens if the condenser fan fails?
→ The condenser temperature rises, leading to system failure.
How can a choked condenser be cleaned?
→ By using compressed air, water spray, or chemical cleaning.
What is the risk of operating an A/C unit with a choked condenser?
→ Compressor overheating and possible damage.
Which refrigerant condition indicates a clogged condenser?
→ High superheat and high discharge pressure.
What is the main cause of condenser clogging?
→ Dust, dirt, and lack of maintenance.
How often should air-cooled condensers be cleaned?
→ At least once every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage.

What is the main advantage of an air-cooled condenser?
→ No need for a water source, making it low maintenance.
What is the disadvantage of an air-cooled condenser compared to a water-cooled condenser?
→ Lower efficiency in high ambient temperatures.
Why are air-cooled condensers preferred in dry regions?
→ They do not require water for cooling.
How can airflow be improved in air-cooled condensers?
→ By using larger fans or increasing the number of fins.
What is decaling in an air-cooled condenser?
→ Removing mineral deposits and dirt from condenser coils.
Why is chemical cleaning required for air-cooled condensers?
→ To remove stubborn dirt and oxidation that affect performance.
What chemicals are used for condenser decaling?
→ Mild acids like phosphoric acid or special coil cleaners.
What is the effect of scale formation on condenser coils?
→ It reduces heat transfer and increases compressor load.
What is a simple method for cleaning condenser coils?
→ Using a brush and compressed air to remove dust and debris.
How does preventive maintenance help in condenser efficiency?
→ It reduces energy consumption and prolongs equipment life.