Heating refrigerant vapor above its evaporating temperature while maintaining low pressure. Typically 5-15°C of superheat at evaporator outlet.
Thermal Conductivity
A material’s ability to conduct heat, measured in W/(m·K) (watts per meter-kelvin). Lower values indicate better insulation.
Thermal Mass
The ability of a material to absorb and store heat energy. Materials with high thermal mass (like water, concrete) resist temperature changes.
Ton of Refrigeration
A unit of cooling capacity equal to the rate of heat absorption required to melt one ton (2,000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours. Equals 12,000 BTU/h or 3.517 kW.
U-Value (Thermal Transmittance)
Measure of heat transfer through an insulated structure (wall, ceiling, door). Measured in W/(m²·K). Lower U-value = better insulation.
Vapor Pressure
The pressure exerted by a vapor in equilibrium with its liquid or solid phase at a given temperature. Each refrigerant has a unique vapor pressure-temperature relationship.