Refrigeration Plant Operator B Practice Test 2025 - Free Refrigeration Exam Questions and Study Guide

Water absorption into refrigerant can significantly impair the functioning of an evaporator. When water is present in the refrigerant, it can lead to a phenomenon known as "refrigerant flooding," where the liquid water mixes with the refrigerant. This mixture can reduce the overall capacity of the refrigerant to absorb heat, as water has different thermodynamic properties than refrigerants.

Lower heat exchange efficiency means that the refrigerant may not be able to effectively transfer heat from the air or liquid being cooled, leading to temperature control issues within the system. Additionally, the presence of water can cause flow restrictions, as the mixture may not flow as smoothly as the refrigerant alone. This restriction can further diminish the cooling capacity and increase the risk of compressor damage due to liquid slugging, where liquid refrigerant enters the compressor instead of vapor, potentially causing failures.

Overall, the combination of reduced heat exchange and flow restrictions due to water contamination ultimately disrupts the intended operation of the evaporator, making this answer a crucial aspect of understanding the impact of contaminants in refrigeration systems.