Refrigeration systems operating with refrigerants at lower pressures generally utilize different components and design considerations compared to high-pressure systems. These systems often employ refrigerants with lower boiling points and require compressors specifically designed for lower pressure differentials. A typical example includes systems using hydrocarbons or other natural refrigerants, where the lower operating pressures contribute to reduced leakage risks and potentially improved energy efficiency.
The significance of these types of refrigeration systems lies in their potential for enhanced safety and environmental performance. Lower operating pressures can minimize the risk of refrigerant leaks, which is crucial for both environmental protection and personnel safety. Furthermore, certain refrigerants used in these systems, such as hydrocarbons, possess low global warming potential (GWP) compared to traditional hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), aligning with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The development and adoption of these systems have progressed alongside the growing awareness of the environmental impact of refrigerants and the pursuit of sustainable cooling solutions.
