What is the primary purpose of a heat exchanger in a refrigeration system?

The primary purpose of a heat exchanger in a refrigeration system is to facilitate the transfer of heat between two or more fluids without mixing them. In this context, the primary function is cooling fluids.

In refrigeration systems, heat exchangers are essential for allowing the refrigerant to absorb heat from the surrounding environment or the substance being cooled, thus lowering its temperature effectively. This process is crucial in maintaining the desired temperature levels in refrigeration applications, whether in commercial coolers, HVAC systems, or industrial refrigeration.

While heating fluids, mixing fluids, or separating fluids could occur in different types of systems or through other components, they do not encapsulate the primary function of a heat exchanger in refrigeration. The key role is the efficient cooling of the refrigerant as it circulates through the system, enabling it to absorb heat from the environment or products being refrigerated.