Automotive system components provider, Nissens Automotive has expanded its range of air conditioning parts with the introduction of thermal expansion valves (TXV).
Along with the compressor, condenser, receiver-dryer and evaporator, the TXV is one of the air conditioning system’s key components, and it is now available through leading replacement parts distributors.
Adding the expansion valve to the already wide variety of the climate system components is part of Nissens’ strategy to be a one-stop-shop within the air conditioning system.
At the same time, the company aims to strengthen its leading position as the acknowledged system specialist by offering its commercial partners a complete package with the major system components, and thus increase their competitiveness in the replacement parts distribution sector.
In turn, air conditioning specialists and the independent workshops installing climate system components will also become beneficiaries of the expanded Nissens air conditioning range.
Jonas Evald Kristensen, product manager for climate comfort systems at Nissens said: “Our development approach behind the expansion valves launch was, among others, determined by two important measures.
“Both are for the clear benefit of the aftermarket at all levels.
“First, by the aim of offering the widest range of different components in the system, hence making it possible for distributors to benefit from an extensive replacement parts programme, available from one supplier.
“In addition, by maximising the vehicle parc coverage of the assorted offering, we help our customers to enhance their competitiveness, so they can provide an even more suitable and comprehensive solution to fulfil the needs of the market.
“The second measure was aimed at installers, to ensure they undertake the correct AC service.
“The proper fitting procedure of other costly system components, such as the AC compressor, can now more easily be followed, as the valve replacement is one of the key steps in the process.
“Additionally, Nissens’ TXV is a First-Fit product and is equipped with all the necessary installation parts, so the technician does not have to spend extra time to find the O-rings or mounting bolts needed for the replacement.”
“The expansion valve is one of the key components in the AC system.
“Despite its small size, the valve plays a crucial role in securing the system’s proper working parameters.
“The valve’s operational characteristics influence not only the system’s overall performance, but also proper operation of other important components”.
The refrigerant’s flow and working parameters, among others, are controlled by the valve.
These have an important influence on the AC compressor workloads, that can affect its lifespan and provoke premature failures.
It is therefore important that the valve operates accurately in a specific way, as determined by the particular system design.
It is also recommended that the valve should always be replaced during the installation of a new compressor.
Christos Saka, quality engineer at Nissens Automotive and responsible for the part quality assurance, said: “When developing the Nissens TXV, we placed great emphasis on ensuring its proper work performance.
“It must correspond to the parameters of the vehicles’ air conditioning system.
“As an original equipment (OE) replacement, the valve should operate, i.e., regulate the flow and pressure of the refrigerant, in exactly the same way as the OE part installed at the factory.
“Therefore, we ensure that the valve’s function, and all its key components are rigorously tested.
“The valve’s inner components are made of high-grade materials and with attention to the smallest detail.
“The most critical part, the power (and sensing) element, is made with the appropriate charge technology.
“This ensures the part’s proper performance at various temperatures and pressures occurring in its working cycle.
“The valve itself also undergoes numerous quality tests including function, performance, fitting, durability, and tightness validation.
“All this to ensure a perfect match with the characteristics of the OE valve, and thus the optimal working parameters of the air-conditioning system, and the Nissens technology centre in Germany contributed greatly to this process.
“Combined with the extensive efforts of the entire engineering team involved in the project, we could design and utilise advanced test stands for the valve and the examination of the components.
“Applying genuine Nissens quality standards, we have developed a top-notch replacement part for reliable AC system performance and safe, trouble-free operation of the AC compressor.”
The initial release of the Nissens TXV range includes 60 plus reference numbers, covering more than 275 OE numbers and caters for the most popular car, van and truck applications.
All are marked as First Fit products and are therefore delivered with all the necessary installation parts, i.e., O-rings and mounting bolts, whenever applicable.
The Nissens TXV range has been available to the UK’s leading replacement parts distributors since November, and will be available to AC installation professionals in February 2021.