Sporlan 168198 SBQE Valve Body

The Sporlan 168198 SBQE Valve Body is a professional-grade, balanced port expansion valve designed for technicians who require high-performance refrigerant metering in systems with widely varying operating conditions. This SBQE series valve body features a 3/8" ODF inlet, a 1/2" ODF outlet, and a 1/4" ODF external equalizer connection, offering a robust foundation for building a custom thermostatic expansion valve (TEV). The balanced port design is specifically engineered to handle variations in head pressure and load, ensuring precise evaporator feeding and stable superheat control even during low-load periods or bi-directional heat pump applications.

Constructed from high-durability brass with Sporlan’s signature knife-edge, metal-to-metal joint, this replacement TEV body provides a leak-proof seal and remains field-serviceable. It is compatible with a broad range of Sporlan replaceable cartridges and thermostatic elements, allowing for rapid capacity adjustments (from 1/8 to 5 tons depending on refrigerant) without removing the body from the line. Rated for a maximum working pressure of 450 psi (and up to 700 psi for R-410A with the appropriate element), the 168198 is a staple for commercial refrigeration, refrigerated cases, and residential split systems where reliability is non-negotiable.

• Balanced Port Design: Maintains consistent refrigerant flow control regardless of pressure fluctuations, preventing hunting and ensuring evaporator efficiency.
• Interchangeable Components: Allows for total customization of capacity and charge by selecting the appropriate Sporlan Q or BQ cartridge and power head.
• Extended ODF Connections: Facilitates easy brazing without disassembling internal components in many standard installations.
• External Equalizer (1/4" ODF): Compensates for pressure drops across the evaporator and distributor, ensuring accurate sensing at the suction line.
• Removable 100 Mesh Strainer: Protects the valve orifice from system debris and is easily accessible for routine maintenance.

Does this valve body include the cartridge or thermostatic element?
No, the 168198 is the SBQE valve body only. To complete the assembly, you must separately select a Sporlan cartridge based on your required tonnage and a thermostatic power element matched to your specific refrigerant and application temperature.

Is this valve body compatible with bi-directional flow?
Yes, because this is a balanced port BQ series body, it is suitable for bi-directional applications such as heat pumps, provided the correct thermostatic charge is used.

What is the maximum operating pressure (MOP) for this part?
The hardware is rated for a design working pressure of 450 psi for standard refrigerants. When utilized in R-410A systems, it supports up to 700 psi, provided the associated components are also rated for high-pressure service.

Disclaimer: While we strive for 100% accuracy, product data and specifications are subject to change. Please contact our team to confirm compatibility or technical details before purchasing.