Accumulator Tank Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mazda 626. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The accumulator tank is a device which separates the gas from the liquid for the refrigerant.
The accumulator tank prevents the liquid from being compressed in the A/C compressor by sending only gaseous refrigerant to the compressor.
Desiccant a drying agent is installed in the accumulator tank and moisture in the system is absorbed.

Fig 1: Identifying Accumulator Tank Operation
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.