The operating principle of cooling systems relies entirely on heat transfer. In compressor minibars, the compressor’s role is to compress air to increase its pressure. The remaining heating and cooling processes continue in a cycle.
The refrigerant gas in the cooling system is compressed by the compressor. As the refrigerant is compressed, its temperature and pressure increase. The compressed refrigerant then moves from the compressor to the condenser. As the refrigerant gas passes through the condenser coil, heat is released to the surrounding environment because the ambient temperature is higher than the refrigerant’s temperature. As a result of heat transfer, the temperature of the refrigerant decreases. However, its pressure remains high, and it transitions into a liquid phase. The refrigerant then moves through the capillary tube. As it passes through the capillary tube, the pressure and evaporation temperature of the refrigerant decrease. The refrigerant, with its reduced pressure and evaporation temperature, absorbs heat from the air inside the minibar and from the beverages via air convection.
Hotel and hospital compressor minibars operate with R600A refrigerant gas. However, it’s known that R600A gas has explosive and flammable properties.
Compressor minibars, which operate on the same principle as household refrigerators, have a factory-set noise level of 38 dB. Our ears perceive sounds ranging from 0 to 140 dB, so hotel and hospital guests will hear the operating noise of the compressor minibar. In an environment where metal fatigue is also considered, the noise level of a compressor minibar that’s been in use for 2-3 years can reach up to 48 dB. Additionally, when operating 24 hours a day, the power consumption is 0.43 kW, achieving an A+ energy efficiency level.