What type of refrigerant cycle is most commonly used in air conditioning?

The vapor-compression cycle is the most commonly used refrigerant cycle in air conditioning systems. This cycle operates on the principle of using a refrigerant to absorb heat from an environment and then releasing it elsewhere, typically outside the building.

In the vapor-compression cycle, the refrigerant undergoes phase changes: it evaporates to absorb heat and transform into a gas, which is then compressed by a compressor. This compression raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant gas, allowing it to release the absorbed heat when it eventually condenses back into a liquid state in the condenser. The cycle is efficient, making it suitable for both residential and commercial applications.

Its widespread usage can also be attributed to the reliability and effectiveness of vapor-compression systems, along with their capacity to be easily integrated with various air handling units and components typically used in HVAC systems. The efficiency of the cycle and the ability to use multiple types of refrigerants further enhance its popularity in the air conditioning sector.