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What is the anatomy of the car AC system?
Car air conditioning (AC) systems are made up of multiple components that work together to cool and condition the air inside your vehicle. The following is a general overview of a typical automotive air conditioning system:
① Compressor:
The compressor is a pump driven by a belt connected to the engine. Its main function is to compress the refrigerant gas and circulate it through the air conditioning system.
② Condenser:
The condenser is a heat exchanger usually located in front of the vehicle's radiator. It receives high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas from the compressor. In the condenser, the refrigerant releases heat and changes from a gas to a high-pressure liquid.
③ Receiver/dryer or accumulator:
The receiver/dryer (for systems with an expansion valve) or accumulator (for systems with a throttle tube) is a vessel that serves as a refrigerant reservoir. It also removes any moisture or debris from the refrigerant.
④ Expansion valve or orifice tube:
The expansion valve or orifice tube is the device that regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. It causes a sudden pressure drop, causing the refrigerant to expand.
⑤ Evaporator:
The evaporator is another heat exchanger located within your vehicle's ventilation system. It receives low-pressure, cryogenic refrigerant from the expansion valve. As air from the cabin flows over the evaporator coil, the refrigerant evaporates, absorbing heat from the air.
⑥ Blower:
The blower blows air over the evaporator coil and into the cabin. It helps distribute cool air to different areas of the vehicle.
⑦ HVAC control:
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controls inside the vehicle allow the driver and passengers to adjust temperature, fan speed and air distribution.
⑧ Pressure switches and sensors:
Pressure switches and sensors monitor pressure and temperature in different parts of the air conditioning system. They help control the operation of the compressor and ensure optimal performance.
⑨ Refrigerant:
Refrigerant is a substance that circulates in air conditioning systems, absorbing and releasing heat to facilitate cooling.