Vehicle Expansion & Orifice Valves

Expansion & Orifice Valves; An Integral Component of the Air-Conditioning System

Automotive expansion valves are integral components of the air-conditioning system, responsible for controlling and regulating its performance. Their role within the car’s air-conditioning loop encompasses several crucial functions.

Vehicle Expansion & Orifice Valves

How Expansion Valves Work

Expansion valves are key components in regulating pressure changes within the air-conditioning system. They control the flow and evaporation of refrigerant, directly impacting the cooling performance of the evaporator and, ultimately, the cabin temperature. Additionally, they ensure that only refrigerant vapor, and not the liquid, reaches the compressor, protecting it from damage and maintaining system efficiency.

Understanding Orifice Tubes

Similarly, an orifice tube, akin to an expansion valve, fulfils a significant function in the vehicle’s air-conditioning system. It assists in controlling the flow of refrigerant through the evaporator, the primary cooling component of the system. The orifice tube ensures a higher flow of refrigerant during periods when increased cooling is required, and a smaller flow when less cooling is needed.

Efficiency and Control in Cooling

This precise balancing of the cooling flow is fundamental for the air-conditioning system to function optimally and provide effective cooling throughout the vehicle’s cabin.

Shop Expansion & Orifice Valves In-Store or Online

From driers and accumulators through to expansion valves and orifice valves for passenger, commercial, and heavy-duty vehicles, we’ve got them all in stock! Shop quality, vehicle-specific air-conditioning components online or visit any of our branches nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions on Automotive Air-Conditioning Expansion & Orifice Tubes

Both control how refrigerant flows through the air-conditioning system, but expansion valves adjust the flow depending on cooling needs, while orifice tubes have a fixed size and allow a steady flow based on pressure

If your aircon isn’t cooling like it used to, is blowing warm air, or if you hear strange noises from the system, it could point to a faulty valve or tube.

It’s a good idea. If the system has been opened or the compressor has failed, replacing the valve or tube helps keep everything running smoothly and avoids future damage.

Not quite. Different vehicles need specific types. We stock expansion and orifice valves for passenger, commercial, and heavy-duty vehicles, so you’ll find the right one for your system. Visit us in-store or browse through our online store.