ABSTRACT
Several options for the incremental efficiency improvement of the vapor compression cycle are available. In addition, based especially on the understanding of the refrigerant properties and how they affect cycle performance, very significant additional improvements are available when the cycle is modified and new components are added. Three measures are discussed in this chapter, the suction line to liquid line heat exchanger, the economizer and the isentropic expansion device. While these devices also benefit cycles with pure fluids, they have unique effects for mixtures when considered in conjunction with the temperature glide. For mixtures alone, one additional option exists — the three-path evaporator.
