Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) MVAC Certification

True or False: The primary cause of over-pressurization of refrigeration cylinders is due to overheating.

1. True

2. False

3. Sometimes

4. Rarely

The correct answer is: True

Over-pressurization of refrigeration cylinders can indeed be primarily attributed to overheating. When a refrigeration cylinder is exposed to excessive heat, the temperature of the refrigerant inside increases, causing the pressure to rise significantly. This occurs due to the direct relationship between temperature and pressure in gases, known as Gay-Lussac's law. As the temperature rises, the molecules within the gas move more quickly, exerting greater force on the walls of the cylinder, leading to an increase in pressure. Controlling the temperature of refrigeration systems is crucial for maintaining safe pressure levels. If the system malfunctions or if there are external heat sources that cause overheating, it can lead to dangerously high pressures. Therefore, it is essential to monitor and manage the operating conditions of refrigeration systems to prevent over-pressurization and the potential risks associated with it, such as cylinder rupture or leaks.