In automotive air conditioning, which component filters debris from refrigerant and dries moisture before the evaporator?

• A. Condenser
• B. Receiver/Dryer
• C. Compressor
• D. Accumulator

Answer: (B)

Moisture control and debris filtration before the evaporator is the main job of the receiver/dryer in an automotive A/C system. It acts as a filter to trap debris that could clog the metering device or evaporator, and it uses a desiccant to absorb moisture from the refrigerant. Removing moisture is crucial because water in the system can form ice at the expansion valve, promote acid formation, and cause corrosion, all of which threaten the compressor and overall performance. The receiver/dryer also serves as a liquid refrigerant reservoir, ensuring a steady supply of dry refrigerant to the expansion device before it enters the evaporator. While the condenser, compressor, and accumulator each have their own roles (releasing latent heat, compressing gas, and preventing liquid slugging/handling vapor-liquid separation, respectively), they are not primarily responsible for filtering debris and drying moisture before the evaporator.