Heat is a byproduct of mechanical energy that presents itself as a temperature increase. French physicist James Prescott Joule aimed to equate heat to mechanical energy. Early experiments used paddle-like structures to stir water within a container and raise its temperature. The paddles would move and agitate the water whenever a mass on a pulley […]

You may have noticed that 3/8 liquid lines are generally the norm in equipment 5 tons and under. We went to a job recently where the system had a 1/2″ liquid line, and it got me thinking about the ramifications of going larger or smaller on the liquid line. Liquid Line Basics The liquid line […]

Think of it like this: It's a cold, wet, windy day. You can take an umbrella to protect you from the water alone, but that won't deal with the cold (temperature) or the wind (air convection). You can add in a light windbreaker, which will help keep the wind (convection) off. But if you also […]