Why are car refrigerant pipes not wrapped?
2 Answers
For the air conditioning refrigerant system pipelines, insulating the low-pressure pipeline is to reduce harmful superheat, making the refrigeration cycle more efficient and energy-saving. The high-pressure pipeline carries high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant, which is intended to dissipate heat to the surrounding air, so the high-pressure pipeline does not require insulation. Below is an introduction to the functions of car air conditioning: 1. Provide fresh air: It prevents the car windows from fogging up, ensuring clear visibility for the driver and safe driving; it supplies fresh air to the cabin, preventing occupants from inhaling harmful gases and ensuring driving safety; it effectively sterilizes and deodorizes. 2. Ensure safety and hygiene: It keeps the cabin air clean and free from bacterial growth, effectively separating solid impurities such as dust, core powder, and grinding particles from the air; it efficiently blocks pollen, ensuring that passengers do not experience allergic reactions that could affect driving safety. 3. Adsorb harmful substances: It adsorbs moisture, soot, ozone, and odors from the air, with strong and durable moisture adsorption capabilities.
After researching car air conditioning systems for over a decade, I've discovered there's actually a reason why refrigerant pipes are left uninsulated. First, let's clarify that automotive AC systems have high-pressure and low-pressure pipes. The low-pressure pipe connected to the evaporator outlet is often intentionally left exposed - the key purpose is to allow refrigerant heat dissipation. Imagine this: during AC operation, the low-pressure pipe temperature can drop to around freezing point. If we insulate it, we'd actually trap the heat inside the pipe and compromise cooling efficiency. Plus, considering the engine compartment is already hot, the airflow during driving naturally cools the pipes like a radiator, so manufacturers don't need to spend extra money insulating them. However, here's an important tip: if you notice the low-pressure pipe doesn't develop condensation during summer, it likely indicates an AC system malfunction.
