What is the primary function of a mechanical refrigeration system?

The primary function of a mechanical refrigeration system is to cool a room by removing heat. This is achieved through a process known as the refrigeration cycle, which involves the compression and expansion of refrigerant gases.

In this cycle, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor environment as it evaporates in the evaporator coil, thus cooling the air in the space. The refrigerant is then compressed, raising its temperature and pressure, before it releases the absorbed heat to the outside environment through the condenser coil. By continually removing heat from the indoor air and displacing it outside, the refrigeration system effectively lowers the temperature of the space being cooled.

This cooling process is foundational to various applications, including air conditioning and refrigeration. It is important to note that the other functions, such as purifying air or humidifying it, do not directly relate to the core purpose of a refrigeration system, which is fundamentally designed for cooling by heat removal.