In a typical vapor compression system, where is liquid refrigerant stored before expansion?

• A. Receiver
• B. Evaporator
• C. Compressor
• D. Condenser

Answer: (A)

In a vapor compression system, after the refrigerant has condensed into a high‑pressure liquid, it is stored in a liquid receiver. This vessel serves as a reservoir for the liquid refrigerant and feeds the expansion device, helping maintain a steady flow into the evaporator. The evaporator is where the liquid absorbs heat and boils into a vapor; it isn’t a storage tank. The condenser’s job is to change vapor back to liquid, but the stored liquid sits in the receiver, not in the condenser. The compressor handles gas and pressurizes it, not store liquid. So, liquid refrigerant is stored before expansion in the receiver.