What is the primary method to minimize flash gas in a refrigeration system?

Subcooling the liquid refrigerant is the primary method for minimizing flash gas in a refrigeration system. Flash gas occurs when a portion of the liquid refrigerant vaporizes prematurely due to a drop in pressure or an increase in temperature. By subcooling, which involves lowering the temperature of the refrigerant to a point below its saturation temperature at a given pressure, you ensure that more liquid remains condensed rather than turning into vapor.

This is important because having liquid refrigerant enter the evaporator instead of a mixture of liquid and vapor enhances the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle. The absence of flash gas allows for improved heat absorption in the evaporator, leading to better overall system performance and efficiency.