vcc.ca
RACM 1151: Fundamentals of Refrigeration 1
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Refrigeration & Air Condt Mech
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course introduces students to the essential principles of refrigeration technology and the primary components that make up refrigeration systems. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of thermodynamic relationships, the refrigeration cycle, and the function and operation of major system components including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and metering devices. Through theoretical study and practical demonstrations, learners will develop the knowledge base necessary to understand how refrigeration systems transfer heat and maintain controlled temperatures.
Credits
5.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe temperature pressure relationships
- Explain refrigeration cycle operation
- Explain operation and function of compressors
- Explain function and operation of refrigeration condensers and receivers
- Explain function and operation of refrigeration evaporators
- Explain function and operation of refrigerant metering devices
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 43.75
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 43.75
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 17.5
Total Hours: 105
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 43.75
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 17.5
Total Hours: 105
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
20 |
|
|
Lab Work |
20 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Temperature-pressure relationships
- Refrigeration cycle operation
- Compressor types and function
- Condensers and receivers
- Evaporators
- Metering devices
- Thermodynamic principles
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.