Abstract: A one-piece metal orifice tube (130) for use in a solenoid valve (100) is provided according to the invention. The one-piece, metal orifice tube includes a metal tube portion (131) including a proximal end (140) and a distal end (142), with the distal end being adapted to extend into an electromagnet bore (103) of an electromagnet (102) of the solenoid valve. The one-piece metal orifice tube further includes an orifice end (132) formed in the proximal end (140). The orifice end includes an orifice (133) that is smaller in diameter than a tube inside diameter D of the metal tube portion and the metal tube portion is adapted to slidably receive at least a portion of an armature (105) of a solenoid valve. In operation, the armature substantially blocks and unblocks the orifice.

Abstract: A system and method for operating a solenoid valve is disclosed. The solenoid valve is operated by moving a first valve element (4) with respect to a second valve element (6, 7) a first distance. And then pulling the second valve element (6, 7) with the first valve element (4) a second distance where the second valve element (6, 7) moves against resistance from a seal (8) and where the movement of the second valve element (6, 7) opens a gap with respect to an orifice (10). The second element (6, 7) then moves a third distance under spring load to open an increased gap with respect to the orifice (10).

Abstract: A one-piece metal orifice tube (130) for use in a solenoid valve (100) is provided according to the invention. The one-piece, metal orifice tube includes a metal tube portion (131) including a proximal end (140) and a distal end (142), with the distal end being adapted to extend into an electromagnet bore (103) of an electromagnet (102) of the solenoid valve. The one-piece metal orifice tube further includes an orifice end (132) formed in the proximal end (140). The orifice end includes an orifice (133) that is smaller in diameter than a tube inside diameter D of the metal tube portion and the metal tube portion is adapted to slidably receive at least a portion of an armature (105) of a solenoid valve. In operation, the armature substantially blocks and unblocks the orifice.