What is the typical refrigerant condensing temperature in a water cooled condenser compared to the leaving water?

The typical refrigerant condensing temperature in a water-cooled condenser is generally about 10°F higher than the leaving water temperature. This relationship is based on the heat exchange process that occurs within the condenser.

In a water-cooled condenser, the refrigerant vapor condenses into liquid as it releases heat to the water that circulates through the condenser. The leaving water temperature is a crucial factor in this process, as the water absorbs heat from the refrigerant.

A higher condensing temperature indicates a consistent heat exchange process, ensuring that the refrigerant efficiently loses heat to the water. The 10°F differential allows for effective heat rejection while preventing potential issues such as overheating or inefficient cooling system operation.

Conditions such as ambient temperature, flow rate, and efficiency of the water cooling system can influence this relationship, but the 10°F figure is a widely accepted standard in various light commercial refrigeration applications.