What occurs if a lithium-bromide absorption system starts with water that is too cold?

In a lithium-bromide absorption system, if the water is too cold when starting the process, it can cause crystallization to occur. This happens because lithium bromide has a certain solubility limit in water, and when the temperature of the water is too low, the solubility of lithium bromide decreases. As a result, excess lithium bromide can precipitate out of the solution, forming solid crystals. This crystallization can lead to blockages within the system and disrupt the absorption process, causing potential operational failures.

Maintaining the appropriate temperature for the water entering the system is crucial for ensuring that the lithium bromide remains adequately dissolved, allowing the absorption and refrigeration cycle to function correctly. Thus, starting with water that is too cold poses a significant risk to the overall functionality and efficiency of the system.