What happens to flash gas in a flooded system?

In a flooded system, flash gas is an important aspect of the refrigeration cycle. Flash gas occurs when liquid refrigerant enters a low-pressure area and some of it vaporizes due to the drop in pressure and temperature. In this context, the correct answer indicates that this vaporized portion of the refrigerant transitions through the surge drum before making its way to the compressor through the suction pipe.

In a typical flooded system, the refrigerant is maintained in a liquid state in the evaporator, and any vapor (flash gas) that does form is collected in a surge drum. This design helps ensure that the compressor receives a proper mix of gas and liquid, protecting it from potential damage from liquid refrigerant. The surge drum provides a separation point where the gas can accumulate before it is returned to the compressor via the suction line, maintaining system efficiency and stability.

Understanding this process is crucial for operating and troubleshooting flooded systems, as it demonstrates how the system manages the formation of flash gas and directs it appropriately within the refrigeration cycle.