A modern two-chamber refrigerator Atlant is a complex thermodynamic system, where the key element is a single compressor. Many users mistakenly believe that to maintain different temperatures in the freezer and refrigerator compartments, two separate engines are needed, but the engineers of the Belarusian plant have long fine-tuned a scheme for effective cold distribution.
Understanding how your unit works helps not only to operate it correctly, but also to quickly diagnose faults. In this article we will analyze in detail the path of the refrigerant, the operation of the capillary tube and the features of thermoregulation in models with one motor.
The basic principle of operation is based on the sequential passage of freon through the evaporators of both chambers or through one common evaporator with an air distribution system. Compressor acts as the heart of the system, creating the necessary pressure for circulation gas.
The principle of operation of one compressor for two chambers
The system is based on a closed circuit through which the refrigerant moves. Compressor compresses gaseous freon, turning it into a liquid under high pressure and temperature. Next, the hot gas enters the condenser, usually located on the rear wall or in hidden channels of the housing, where it cools and releases heat to the environment.
After condensation, the refrigerant passes through a filter-drier, where moisture is removed from it, and enters a thin capillary tube. It is here that a sharp drop in pressure occurs, and liquid freon turns into a vapor-gas mixture, ready to boil at very low temperatures. This process is critical for cooling.
⚠️ Attention: In systems with a single compressor, it is strictly forbidden to open the sealed connections of the circuit without special equipment. The entry of moisture or air into the system will lead to the formation of ice plugs and failure of the compressor.
The design feature Atlant is that after the evaporator in the freezer, the refrigerant does not immediately return to the compressor. It passes through the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber (or through the channels, if it is a system No Frost), where it continues to give off cold before returning to suction.
Refrigerant circulation circuit and capillary tube
Circulation of the working fluid in refrigerator Atlant occurs strictly along a given trajectory. Capillary tube is a throttling device that divides the circuit into a high and low pressure zone. Its length and internal diameter are selected to ensure optimal boiling pressure in the evaporator.
Two-chamber models often use a scheme where the main cold is removed in the freezer, and the remaining cold is used to maintain a positive temperature in the upper compartment. If we are talking about the system No Frostthen the evaporator is hidden behind the back panel of the freezer, and cold air is pumped by a fan.
It is important to note the role heat exchangerwhich is often a section of the suction tube glued to the discharge tube or capillary. This allows you to overheat the refrigerant vapor before entering the compressor (protection against water hammer) and additionally cool the liquid in front of the throttle.
Why does the side of the refrigerator heat up?
The side walls can heat up because condenser pipes are installed in them. This is a normal process of heat transfer during compressor operation, especially in the first hours after switching on or at high ambient temperatures.
The movement of freon is cyclical and depends on the heat inflow. The more products you load warm, the longer the motor runs, pumping refrigerant through the circuit to compensate for the heat.
Evaporator design and defrost system
The evaporator is the very element where the “magic” of cooling occurs. In refrigerators Atlant with one compressor, the design of the evaporator depends on the type of defrosting system. In a drip system, this is an aluminum sheet foamed in the wall or a tubular coil.
Models with No Frost use a plate evaporator with a developed fin area, equipped with a fan. Air circulates through the channels, uniformly cooling both the freezer and refrigerator compartments. The defrosting heating element is also located here defrost heating element.
The defrosting system is controlled by a timer or an electronic module. Periodically, the compressor and fan are turned off, and the heating element is turned on, melting the ice frozen on the evaporator. The melt water flows into a tray installed above the compressor, where it safely evaporates.
☑️ Signs of problems with the defrost system
A malfunction of the defrost sensor or timer can lead to the evaporator becoming overgrown with ice, blocking the air channels. As a result, the refrigerator will stop cooling, although the compressor will work continuously.
Thermoregulation and temperature control
Maintaining the set temperature in a two-chamber refrigerator with one motor is a difficult task, since there is only one source of cold, and the zones require different parameters. A thermostat (thermostat) or an electronic control unit is responsible for this.
In mechanical models, the thermostat usually controls the temperature in the refrigeration chamber. It opens the compressor power circuit when the air inside is cooled to the desired temperature. At this time, the freezer compartment is cooled according to the residual principle.
Electronic control allows you to more accurately regulate the operation. Temperature sensors (NTC thermistors) constantly transmit data to the control board. The module, in turn, can regulate the fan speed or compressor operating time.
| Component | Function | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Thermostat | Turning on/off the compressor | Inside the refrigeration chamber or on the body |
| Defrost sensor | Evaporator temperature control | On the evaporator (in the freezer) |
| Heating element | Heating for defrosting ice | At the bottom of the evaporator |
| Fan | Cold air circulation | Behind the back wall of the freezer |
If you notice that the refrigerator Atlant started to work in a non-standard mode (turns on too often or does not turn off for a long time), first of all you should check the tightness of the doors and the condition seals.
Characteristics and types of Atlant compressors
The heart of the system is the compressor. In refrigerators Atlant hermetic piston compressors are most often used. They can be of a crank-rocker type or a crank-rod type.
Modern models are equipped with inverter or linear compressors, which are characterized by lower noise levels and energy consumption. They are able to smoothly change power, instead of constantly turning on and off.
⚠️ Attention: Replacing the compressor requires professional soldering, vacuuming the system and refilling with the exact amount of freon. Independent replacement without a vacuum sealer will lead to rapid breakdown of the new unit.
The compressor power is selected based on the volume of the chambers and the type of refrigerant used (R600a or R134a). For two-chamber models with one motor, high performance is important in order to have time to cool both chambers during the operating cycle.
Typical malfunctions of a single-circuit system
Despite its reliability, a system with a single compressor is susceptible to specific problems. One of the most common is clogged capillary tube. Oil breakdown products or moisture can clog the narrow section, stopping the circulation of freon.
Also (a common problem) is a refrigerant leak. In models Atlant with a foamed condenser (tubes in the walls of the case), leaks often occur at the exit points of the tubes from the foaming material or in the freezer area.
A fan malfunction in the system No Frost leads to cold does not enter the refrigerator compartment, although there may be severe frost in the freezer. At the same time, the compressor works without interruption, trying to compensate for the lack of circulation.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Why an Atlant refrigerator with one compressor is it noisy?
Noise can be caused by vibration of the compressor, improper installation (feet not adjusted), or operation of the fan in the No Frost system. Freon flowing through the tubes can also make noise, which is normal.
Is it possible to turn off one chamber in a two-chamber refrigerator?
In most Atlant models with one compressor, it is impossible to turn off one chamber independently, since the refrigeration unit is single. However, some models have a “Vacation” mode or the ability to adjust the air supply damper.
How often do you need to defrost a No Frost refrigerator?
The No Frost system does not require manual defrosting to remove ice. However, it is recommended to completely turn off the refrigerator 1-2 times a year for hygienic washing and drying of hidden cavities.
What gas is used in Atlant refrigerators?
In modern models, isobutane (R600a) is most often used, which is environmentally friendly, but fire hazardous. In older models, freon R134a may be found.