Which piping device is located at the outlet of an evaporator and above a compressor?

The correct response identifies the accumulator as the piping device situated at the outlet of an evaporator and positioned above a compressor. The accumulator serves a critical function in a refrigeration system by collecting any liquid refrigerant that may not have completely evaporated by the time it reaches the compressor. This is essential for protecting the compressor from liquid refrigerant, which can cause damage if it enters the compression chamber.

When refrigerant exits the evaporator, it ideally should be in a vapor state. However, due to variations in system operation or inadequate heat exchange, some liquid refrigerant may still be present. By placing the accumulator above the compressor, it allows the vapor to rise and be drawn into the compressor while the liquid settles at the bottom of the accumulator. This design helps ensure that only vapor reaches the compressor, promoting reliable operation and enhancing the longevity of the compressor.

The other options do not fulfill this specific role in the system. For example, the expansion valve, while crucial for controlling refrigerant flow into the evaporator, is not found at the outlet of the evaporator. An inverted trap is utilized for different purposes, such as returning oil in systems where oil might reside in the refrigerant piping system, but it does not serve as a device specifically located above