In standard refrigeration terminology, what do we refer to as "subcooling"?

Subcooling refers to the process where a liquid refrigerant is cooled below its saturation temperature at a given pressure. In this context, the term describes the difference between the saturation temperature of a liquid refrigerant and its actual temperature. When refrigerant is subcooled, it exists in a liquid state at a temperature lower than its boiling point for that pressure, ensuring that the refrigerant remains in the liquid state as it moves toward the expansion valve or into the evaporator. This enhances the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle, as it prevents vapor from entering the evaporator.

By ensuring that the refrigerant is adequately subcooled, the system can operate more efficiently and prevent potential issues such as compressor damage due to vapor entering the compressor. The concept of subcooling is critical in understanding how to control the refrigeration cycle effectively.