Refrigerant Circuit Component Allocation, Influence On High And Low Pressure Sides: Condenser

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The condenser diverts heat away from the compressed refrigerant gas to the surrounding air.

Fig 1: A/C Condenser

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

This condenses the refrigerant gas to fluid.

NOTE:

Depending on the refrigerant circuit design, the receiver/dryer can be installed (integrated) on the condenser or inside the condenser. Refer to Refrigerant Circuit (vehicle-specific repair information) and the Electronic Parts Information (ETKA).

The condenser is available in different versions and can only be differentiated by the part number on the outside. For version -1-, the condenser is divided into two areas "2 way condenser". For version -2-, the condenser is divided into four areas "4 way condenser".

Fig 2: Identifying Condenser With Fluid Reservoir Installed

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

This illustration shows a condenser with the receiver/dryer -C- installed.

The gaseous refrigerant enters at the connection -A- into the condenser. The refrigerant is then cooled inside the condenser and becomes fluid.

The liquid refrigerant collects in the receiver/dryer -C- (with dryer) and flows through the lower cooling area towards the connection -B-.

Depending on the design of the condenser (interior volumes, flow through, etc.), the refrigerant capacity in a refrigerant circuit may vary. Therefore always be sure of the correct version and allocation of the condenser. Refer to Refer to REFRIGERANT R134A CAPACITIES and the Electronic Parts Information (ETKA).