Question 42Refrigeration & AC - 1st Asst/Chief

70% to pass

Why is a purge recovery unit typically fitted on low pressure centrifugal chillers?

Alow pressure chillers are routinely opened for maintenance thus introducing air at each opening
Bsuch a chiller can operate at a pressure below atmospheric pressure on the low side thus drawing in air through any low-side leaks
Clow pressure chillers use extremely low boiling point refrigerants
Devacuation of the air from a low pressure chiller prior to charging with refrigerant is not possible
AI Explanation

The correct answer is B) such a chiller can operate at a pressure below atmospheric pressure on the low side thus drawing in air through any low-side leaks. Low pressure centrifugal chillers operate on the low side at pressures below atmospheric pressure. This means that any leaks on the low side of the system will allow air to be drawn into the system, contaminating the refrigerant. A purge recovery unit is typically installed to remove this air and prevent it from accumulating in the system. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) low pressure chillers do not necessarily require more frequent maintenance openings, B) is the correct explanation, C) the refrigerant boiling point is not the primary reason for the purge unit, and D) evacuation is possible but may not be sufficient to remove all air.

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