Why is copper used in refrigeration systems, particularly in heat exchangers?

Copper is widely used in refrigeration systems, especially in heat exchangers, primarily due to its high thermal conductivity. This property allows copper to efficiently transfer heat between fluids, which is essential in the functioning of refrigeration systems. In a heat exchanger, the primary goal is to remove heat from one fluid and transfer it to another. The higher the thermal conductivity of the material, the more effectively it can facilitate this heat exchange process, leading to better overall system efficiency and performance.

While factors such as low cost, corrosion resistance, and durability are also important considerations in material selection for refrigeration systems, they do not match the significance of thermal conductivity in this specific context. Ideal heat exchanger materials must excel in transferring heat, which is why copper's thermal properties make it a preferred choice in these applications.