In metering devices, what occurs to the refrigerant as it changes from hot liquid to cold vapor mixture?

In metering devices, as the refrigerant changes from a hot liquid to a cold vapor mixture, it experiences a process known as "flashing." Flashing occurs when the refrigerant, under high pressure, is allowed to expand rapidly as it passes through the metering device. This abrupt reduction in pressure leads to a portion of the refrigerant evaporating and transforming into vapor, while some remains in liquid form.

The correct understanding of flashing is crucial in refrigeration systems since it helps facilitate the cooling process by enabling the refrigerant to absorb heat from its surroundings once it enters the evaporator coil. The remaining liquid refrigerant that did not immediately vaporize carries on with the process, aiding in the efficient transfer of heat. This is a significant part of the refrigeration cycle since it illustrates how pressure changes can directly influence the state and behavior of the refrigerant.