What is one common use for ammonia in refrigeration systems?

Ammonia is widely recognized for its effectiveness as a primary refrigerant in refrigeration systems. It has a high latent heat of vaporization, which allows it to absorb a significant amount of heat while changing from a liquid to a gas. This characteristic makes it particularly efficient for cooling applications. Ammonia also has a low boiling point, which is advantageous in achieving the desired temperatures in various refrigeration processes.

Its use is prevalent in both commercial and industrial refrigeration systems due to its energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness compared to some synthetic refrigerants. Additionally, ammonia has environmental benefits, as it has zero ozone depletion potential and low global warming potential.

Understanding its role as a primary refrigerant is crucial for those working in refrigeration engineering, as it impacts system design, safety protocols, and overall operational efficiency.