Unit 6 — Refrigeration System Components
Section 4 — Accessory Devices

Section 4 Overview

This section covers the accessory devices that protect refrigeration system components from moisture, contamination, oil loss, and liquid refrigerant — developing the identification, diagnostic, and specification skills required of Level 1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (313A/313D).

4.0.1 — General Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this section, the apprentice will be able to:

4.0.2 — Section 4 — Lessons at a Glance

Section 4 covers the accessory devices that protect refrigeration system components from the most common failure-causing contaminants and conditions.

4.0.3 — Accessory Device Quick Reference

Each major accessory type in Section 4 serves a distinct function within the refrigerant circuit. Use this grid as a quick index before each lesson.

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Filter-Driers

Remove moisture and trap solid contaminants in the liquid line (or suction line during cleanup). Critical after burnouts and at commissioning.

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Heat Exchangers

Subcool liquid refrigerant and superheat suction vapour to reduce flash gas and protect compressors from liquid carry-over at light loads.

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Liquid Receivers

Store refrigerant on the high side and provide a stable liquid supply during pump-down, varying load, or seasonal charge management.

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Moisture Indicators

Sight glasses indicate refrigerant state (bubbles = flash gas or low charge) and moisture condition. Interpret in context of subcooling and system state.

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Oil Separators

Remove oil from discharge gas and return it to the compressor. Essential in long-piping, low-temperature, or parallel-compressor applications.

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Pressure Controls

Translate system pressure into electrical actions — cutouts, fan cycling, crankcase regulation — to maintain safe and stable operation.

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Pressure Relief Devices

Open or rupture at a set condition to protect vessels and piping from catastrophic overpressure. Critical safety components that must never be defeated.

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Regulators

Maintain controlled pressures in system sections using EPRs, CPRs, and head pressure regulators. A misadjusted regulator can create misleading pressure readings.

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Suction Accumulators

Protect compressors from liquid refrigerant during start-up, defrost, and load swings by holding liquid temporarily and passing only vapour.

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