What is the role of capillary tube in a refrigerator?

The capillary tube is a thin copper tube that acts as the expansion device in a refrigerator. Its main job is to reduce the pressure of the liquid refrigerant before it enters the evaporator.

The main functions of the capillary tube are:

1. Reduces refrigerant pressure from the high-pressure side to the low-pressure side.
2. Controls the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator.
3. Causes the refrigerant temperature to drop, so it becomes very cold.
4. Helps the evaporator absorb heat from inside the refrigerator.
5. Maintains the pressure difference between the condenser and the evaporator, which is essential for the refrigeration cycle.

In simple terms:

• The compressor compresses the refrigerant.
• The condenser removes heat from it.
• The capillary tube lowers its pressure.
• The evaporator absorbs heat from inside the refrigerator, producing cooling.

If the capillary tube becomes blocked or partially clogged, the refrigerator may cool poorly or stop cooling because the refrigerant cannot flow properly into the evaporator.