Before we convert temperature scales, let's take a step back and think about what temperature is in the first place. Temperature is proportional to the average kinetic energy of the random microscopic motions of the constituent microscopic particles, such as electrons, atoms, and molecules. Translation: Temperature is the average “movement energy” of the molecules in […]

Simply stated, a compressor’s volumetric efficiency (VE) is its ability to pump the most pounds of refrigerant over time. The compressor’s function is right in the name: it compresses vapor refrigerant. After compression, the gas moves to the condenser via the discharge line. From there, the refrigeration cycle continues. However, some of the refrigerant vapor […]

This article was written by longtime contributor and RSES CM Jeremy Smith. Thanks, Jeremy! Nitrogen doesn’t absorb moisture like many techs think that it does, and I think that we, as technicians, need to reevaluate the reasons for the “triple evacuation” process. OK. Hold on, now. Put down the pitchforks and torches, and give me […]