What determines the amount of refrigerant that flows through the orifices of an economizer?

The amount of refrigerant that flows through the orifices of an economizer is primarily determined by the difference between the high-side and low-side pressure. In a refrigeration system, the pressure difference directly influences the rate of flow of the refrigerant. When the pressure on the high side (where the refrigerant is compressed) is significantly greater than the pressure on the low side (where the refrigerant evaporates), it creates a driving force that facilitates the movement of refrigerant through the economizer orifices.

This principle is fundamental in maintaining the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle, allowing the system to optimize the cooling effect. The higher the pressure differential, the more refrigerant can be pushed through the orifices, leading to better performance of the economizer in reclaiming heat and thus improving overall energy efficiency in HVAC systems.