How it Works:
Receiver Driers & Accumulators
The primary function of the receiver drier/ accumulator is to store excess refrigerant until it is needed by the evaporator. These components also remove small amounts of moisture from the refrigerant as it cycles through the system. Both receiver driers and accumulators hold desiccant inside. This desiccant is similar to the silica gel packets in new shoes. Desiccant draws the moisture from the refrigerant to prevent damage to the internal
components of the air conditioning system. It is important that each time the system is opened (a part is replaced) the receiver drier is also replaced. Desiccant comes in different types for different refrigerants. XH-5 for R12 and XH7 & XH9 for R12 & R134a. Universal receiver driers are described as a “#5 flare” or “#6 o-ring”, etc. This terminology refers to the fittings on the receiver driers. For example a “ #6 o-ring” has 3/8” o-ring fittings on both ends.
components of the air conditioning system. It is important that each time the system is opened (a part is replaced) the receiver drier is also replaced. Desiccant comes in different types for different refrigerants. XH-5 for R12 and XH7 & XH9 for R12 & R134a. Universal receiver driers are described as a “#5 flare” or “#6 o-ring”, etc. This terminology refers to the fittings on the receiver driers. For example a “ #6 o-ring” has 3/8” o-ring fittings on both ends.
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Receiver Drier
Receiver driers are made from metal and usually accommodate plugs so that pressure switches can be added on the head/stem of the drier. The desiccant is usually found at the top of the drier, under the weld. This picture is of a typical universal receiver drier.
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Accumulator
Accumulators are larger in size than receiver driers and are usually made from alloy, but also can be made from steel. The desiccant is usually found as a bag inside the receiver drier. They also have a small particle filter on the outlet tube. |
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| gpd_tech_tip_31-how_it_works-accumulator-receiver_drier.pdf |
