Method for assembling of a hermetically sealed connection interface between a refrigerant device housing and a connector element and an assembly of a refrigerant device housing and at least one connector element

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for assembling of a hermetically sealed connection interface of a refrigerant circuit. The method comprises the following steps: Providing a refrigerant device housing (100) made of a metallic, ductile, plastically deformable first material with a first interior (102) and an integrally formed first seal- forming portion (101A, 101B); Providing a connector element (200; 300) made of a metallic second material with a second interior (202; 302) and an integrally formed second seal-forming portion (201; 301); Providing a sealing element (204; 304); Bringing the refrigerant device housing and the connector element together and the seal- forming portions into direct abutment, wherein the sealing element is arranged between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element outside the seal-forming portions; Relatively, axially moving the refrigerant device housing and the connector element further towards each other, thereby plastically deforming the first seal- forming portion and forming a hermetic fluid seal. The connector element is secured to the refrigerant device housing under use of first securing means (103A, 103B) and second securing means (203; 303). The second material is harder than the first material.

Description

[0001]

[0002] Method for assembling of a hermetically sealed connection interface between a refrigerant device housing and a connector element and an assembly of a refrigerant device housing and at least one connector element

[0003] The present invention relates to a method for assembling of a hermetically sealed connection interface, for example a refrigerant connection interface, between a refrigerant device housing and a connector element. Further, the invention relates to an assembly of a refrigerant device housing and at least one connector element.

[0004] In refrigerant circuits, such as heat exchange systems, several different fluid connections are provided between components for conducting, storing, and receiving refrigerant. In order to prevent fluid from leaking and in order to form pressure tight compartments, for example to avoid environmental damage and / or efficiency losses, the components forming the fluid connections are typically sealed, often and preferably hermetically sealed. Sealing elements are therefore typically used to prevent refrigerant from leaking, for example at an interface between two components.

[0005] There exist various methods for providing a sealed refrigerant connection interface, depending on the application, for example the maximum pressure inside the refrigerant system, or the materials of the components of the refrigerant system. In order to provide hermetically sealed refrigerant connection interfaces, often material bonding techniques such as welding or soldering, especially brazing, flare connections, or other complicated screw connections comprising several components are used.

[0006] Although the fluid connection interfaces resulting from any one of the aforementioned connection techniques are sealed, the resulting refrigerant connection

[0007] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO interfaces are either difficult to separate after use, making it difficult or impossible to separate materials for recycling, for example, or they are at least complex to assemble, cost-intensive and heavy due to the number of components. These aspects are all the more important if the assembly providing the refrigerant connection interface is provided by components of dissimilar materials.

[0008] In this respect, it is for example common practice to use aluminum housings as valve housings for solenoid valves to reduce costs, the amount of lead in the housing alloy etc. and to connect connector elements to the housing comprising a different material than the housing, for example steel or copper. Thus, when dissimilar materials are used, this often requires further precautionary measures to counteract undesirable effects such as galvanic corrosion and to ensure sufficient fluid-tight connection over the service life of the valve housing, for example. These precautionary measures are usually not beneficial to the costs and complexity of the connection.

[0009] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for assembly of a hermetically sealed connection interface between two components comprising dissimilar materials, wherein the connection comprises long term reliability and is easy to be disassembled after use. In addition, it is an object of the present invention to reduce the number of components needed to provide this connection.

[0010] The object of the present invention is solved by a method according to claim 1 as well as an assembly according to claim 8.

[0011] The method for assembling of a hermetically sealed connection interface of a refrigerant circuit between a refrigerant device housing and a connector element comprises several steps. These steps, which are described in the following may be supplemented by preceding steps, subsequent steps and / or intermediate steps, i.e. steps between two steps. Some of these additional steps are exemplary

[0012] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO discussed below. Furthermore, the sequence of the following steps is not mandatory. In other words, the sequence of steps may be different. For example, steps that do not necessarily require a preceding step can also be performed in advance, i.e. before another step.

[0013] The method according to the invention is thus configured to allow for assembling of a hermetically sealed connection interface, i.e. an interface between two components as part for example of a refrigerant circuit, and wherein the interface is hermetically sealed. One of these components of the assembly may be a refrigerant device housing. The other one of the components of the connection interface may be a connector element.

[0014] A refrigerant device housing may be a component as part of a refrigerant circuit such as a valve housing, for example a valve housing for a solenoid valve, or a housing as part of a refrigerant circuit comprising a sight glass. However, the refrigerant device housing may also be provided by other fluid conducting or receiving components as part of a refrigerant circuit.

[0015] Further, the connector element may be a component which is connected to the refrigerant device housing in order to provide a fluid connection between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element which is hermetically sealed. When the assembly is used in a refrigerant circuit, the connector element may be connected to further components of the refrigerant circuit, for example to a pipe. The connector element may thus provide a connection between the refrigerant device housing and other components of the refrigerant circuit. In other words, the connector element may bring the refrigerant device housing in fluid connection with further components of a refrigerant circuit. In this regard, fluid may flow via the connector element into the refrigerant device housing or from the refrigerant device housing via the connector element into the refrigerant circuit.

[0016] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0017] To realize the hermetically sealed assembly, the refrigerant device housing is provided with a first interior for receiving fluid. The first interior may be a channel or duct through which fluid may pass when being fluidically connected to a refrigerant circuit, for example via the connector element. Fluid flow inside the first interior may be controlled or regulated by a main valve element. In one aspect, the first interior may also be used to store fluid which may have been previously received.

[0018] The refrigerant device housing further comprises first securing means and an integrally formed first seal-forming portion. Preferably, the first securing means are used to detachably connect the connector element to the refrigerant device housing.

[0019] Further, the first seal-forming portion defines a portion of the refrigerant device housing which provides a hermetic fluid seal when it engages with the connector element as described further below. The hermetic fluid seal may also be called fluid seal hereinafter. The first seal-forming portion is integrally formed and thus not provided by an additional component. Moreover, the first seal-forming portion is defined by a portion of the refrigerant device housing which is used to provide the hermetic seal, i.e. which engages with the connector element. The refrigerant device housing is made of a metallic, ductile, plastically deformable first material.

[0020] Further, the connector element with a second interior for receiving fluid and for forming fluid communication to the first interior is provided. However, the connector element could for example also be provided before the refrigerant device housing is provided. When the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are fully assembled, the connector element may be used to fluidically connect the refrigerant device housing to the refrigerant circuit.

[0021] The connector element comprises second securing means and an integrally formed second seal-forming portion. As for the refrigerant device housing, the

[0022] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO second seal-forming portion is defined by a portion of the connector element which is used to provide the hermetic fluid seal. In other words, no additional element is required to form the hermetic fluid seal. Further, the connector element is made of a metallic second material.

[0023] In addition, in order to assemble the hermetically sealed connection interface, a sealing element, for example an O-ring, is provided. However, the sealing element could also be provided at first, i.e. before providing the refrigerant device housing and the connector element, or at second, i.e. after providing the connector element or the refrigerant device housing, or together with the refrigerant device housing and the connector element.

[0024] The sealing element may be made of rubber and may as such be a separate component with respect to the refrigerant device housing and with respect to the connector element. For the sake of completeness, it is already noted here that the sealing element is not responsible for the formation of the hermetic fluid seal. Rather, the sealing element serves as protection as will be described below.

[0025] Next, the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are brought together, such that the first seal-forming portion directly abuts the second seal-forming portion. In this regard, directly abutting means that although another element, such as a metal seal, could in principle be placed between the seal-forming portions, such an arrangement of an additional element between the seal-forming portions is not required to provide the hermetic fluid seal. Consequently, the sealforming portions of the refrigerant device housing and the connector element can be brought in direct abutment and are thus in direct contact.

[0026] In one aspect, for example before bringing the refrigerant device housing and the connector element together, the refrigerant device housing and / or the connector element may be pre-heated. In other words, the temperature of the refrigerant

[0027] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO device housing and / or the temperature of the connector element may be increased to a certain temperature for manufacturing purposes, for example.

[0028] When the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are brought together, the sealing element is arranged between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element outside the first seal-forming portion and outside the second seal-forming portion. Consequently, and as aforementioned, the first sealforming portion and the second seal-forming portion are in direct abutment, wherein the sealing element is not responsible for forming the hermetic fluid seal and is not arranged between the seal-forming portions. The sealing element may thus for example be arranged adjacent to the first seal-forming portion and adjacent to the second seal-forming portion, when the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are brought together. Since, as described below, the deformation of the first seal-forming portion through further relative axial movement between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element is decisive for forming the hermetic fluid seal, the sealing element remains outside the sealforming portions even after the hermetic fluid seal has been formed.

[0029] Hence, an arrangement of the sealing element outside the first seal-forming portion and outside the second seal-forming portion does not necessarily mean that the sealing element is arranged on an outer surface, for example on an outer surface of the assembly or the like. Rather, the sealing element can also be arranged between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element, for example on an outer surface of the connector element. However, the sealing element is not arranged in an area where the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion come into direct abutment, i.e. the sealing element is arranged outside the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion.

[0030] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0031] Still, in one aspect, the sealing element may be arranged in a groove provided on an outer surface of the connector element. The groove may be separated from the second seal-forming portion. In this regard, there may thus for example be an additional step of arranging the sealing element in a groove of the connector element be required. When the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are brought together in order to bring the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion into abutment, the sealing element remains outside this contacting area between the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion. Further, the sealing element may be arranged between the connector element and the refrigerant device housing when the connector element and the refrigerant device housing are brought together. In this regard, a portion of the refrigerant device housing may overlap a portion of the connector element or vice versa. However, it should be noted that simply bringing the connector element and the refrigerant device housing together does not yet provide for the hermetic fluid seal, even if the sealing element may already be arranged between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element.

[0032] Further, when the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion are brought into direct abutment, the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion are relatively, axially moved towards each other. Relatively, axially moving the refrigerant device housing and the connector element towards each other may also include a helical movement, for example of one of the components, for example the connector element, relative to the other component, for example the refrigerant device housing. In other words, for example, the connector element may be screwed into the refrigerant device housing, causing the connector element to move both rotationally and axially, i.e. helically, and thus move axially with respect to the refrigerant device housing.

[0033] In one aspect, the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are relatively moved towards each other along a central axis, which may be a central

[0034] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO axis with respect to the first interior of the refrigerant device housing and / or with respect to the second interior of the connector element. In this regard, it should also be noted that movement of one of the refrigerant device housing and the connector element relative to the other one of the refrigerant device housing and the connector element may be sufficient in order to relatively move the first sealforming portion and the second seal-forming portion towards each other.

[0035] Further, relatively, axially moving the refrigerant device housing and the connector element plastically deforms the first seal-forming portion of the refrigerant device housing such that the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion together form the hermetic fluid seal. In this respect and in other words, the first material of the first seal-forming portion may yield.

[0036] In addition, the connector element is secured to the refrigerant device housing under use of the first securing means and the second securing means. In one aspect, the securing means may be used for relative axially moving the refrigerant device housing and the connector element towards each other. In addition, and in order to allow for the aforementioned plastic deformation, the second material is harder than the first material.

[0037] Consequently, a hermetic fluid seal may simply be provided by two components, namely the refrigerant device housing and the connector element without requiring additional components. This means that the two components can simply be recycled by separating them from each other after use. Further, the hermetic fluid seal is provided purely by relative movement, i.e. for example no brazing or soldering or no flare connection has to be provided. This reduces energy and costs during assembling. To increase energy and cost savings the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are typically cold worked when forming the hermetic fluid seal. This means that typically no heat is introduced for the plastic deformation between the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming

[0038] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO portion. In addition, the plastic deformation of the first seal-forming portion allows to compensate for small imperfections of the second seal-forming portion, for example small imperfections of the second material.

[0039] Further, the sealing element which is provided outside the first seal-forming portion and outside the second seal-forming portion serves as a protection for the hermetic fluid seal provided by the seal-forming portions, thereby allowing for a long term reliability of the hermetic fluid seal. For example, the sealing element may prevent water, for example water from the environment, from reaching the hermetic connection interface forming the hermetic fluid seal. Thus, galvanic corrosion may be prevented or at least limited in the area of the plastically deformed first seal-forming portion.

[0040] According to one aspect, at least when the refrigerant device housing and the connector element have been relatively, axially moved in order to plastically deform the first seal-forming portion, the first securing means and the second securing means may be arranged between the sealing element and the fluid seal. In other words, for example an engagement between the first securing means and the second securing means is protected on one side by the hermetic fluid seal and on the other side by the sealing element. Therefore, the sealing element may be configured to protect an engagement between the first securing means and the second securing means from environmental influences such as water ingress towards the securing means as well as to protect the hermetic fluid seal. Consequently, deterioration such as galvanic corrosion impairing the securing means as well as the hermetic fluid seal may be prevented thus allowing for a long term reliability of the connection.

[0041] In one aspect, the first material may be aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The first material may for example be EN AW 6082 T6 or EN AW 6061 T6. In addition or alternatively, the second material may comprise steel, stainless steel, copper

[0042] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO and / or bronze. Preferably the connector element comprising the second material is a bi-metal connector element made of copper-plated steel or copper-plated stainless steel. The steel or stainless steel may also be plated with a copper alloy. According to a preferred aspect, the copper or the copper alloy is plated over the complete outer surface of the connector element. In this regard, the outer surface refers to any surface portion of the connector element. Consequently, also surfaces defining the second interior are plated with copper or copper-alloy. In other words, the copper or copper alloy may not only cover the second interior of the connector element but also the other surfaces of the connector element. In this regard, electroplating may be used as a cheap way of getting a corresponding layer on an inside and on an outside of the connector element, i.e. on the outer surface. In this regard, the inside of the connector element may refer to any surface referring to the second interior, wherein the outside of the connector element may refer to any surface not referring to the inside.

[0043] Providing a copper layer or copper alloy layer on the inside, i.e. at the second interior, may facilitate soldering of the connector element to further components of the refrigerant circuit, for example to a pipe, e.g. a copper pipe. In addition, providing a copper layer or copper alloy layer on the outside, i.e. for example on the surfaces referring the securing means, the second seal-forming portion and the like, may increase sealing between the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion. In this respect, the contribution of a copper layer or copper alloy layer on the outside of the connector element to the sealing function of the hermetic fluid seal was surprisingly observed. Further, providing a copper layer or copper alloy layer on the complete outer surface of the connector element also has a visual effect as the pipes of the refrigerant circuit connected to the assembly are typically also made of copper or a copper alloy. The visual effect may prevent a user from carelessly touching the connector element and, for example, getting burnt, as copper pipes, unlike plastic pipes, for example, generally give an indication of fluid conduction, especially of hot or cold fluids.

[0044] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises a refrigerant device housing and a connector element, wherein the first material of the refrigerant device housing may be aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and wherein the connector element is a bi-metal connector element comprising a copper layer or a copper-alloy layer on the outside, especially at the second seal-forming portion. Consequently, the first material and the second material which are in abutment and which are used to form the hermetic fluid seal, may comprise aluminum or an aluminum alloy on the one side and copper or a copper (alloy) layer on the other side. In other words, the connector element comprises a copper layer or a copper alloy layer at the second seal-forming portion, i.e. where the connector element and the first sealforming portion engages in order to provide the hermetic fluid seal.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the connector element may be formed in one piece. In other words, the hermetic fluid seal provided by the refrigerant device housing and the connector element may only be provided by two components, namely the refrigerant device housing and the connector element. Therefore, also the second interior, the second seal-forming portion and the second securing means may be integrally formed with the connector element. Hence, the connector element may be provided as a single part. The second interior, the second seal-forming portion and the second securing means may thus only define different portions of one single main body defining the connector element. Providing the connector element in one piece facilitates assembly of the refrigerant device housing and the connector element, i.e. reduces manufacturing steps, time and costs, as well as the number of parts to be potentially disassembled after use.

[0047] In one aspect, the connector element and the refrigerant device housing may be releasably attached, i.e. detachably after forming the hermetic fluid seal. Consequently, during assembly the connector element may connected to the refrigerant device by a connection allowing for detachment. Therefore, the assembly may be

[0048] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO easily dissembled after use. The dissimilar materials may thus be easily separated for recycling.

[0049] According to one aspect, a detachable connection between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element may be provided. In this regard, the first securing means may be provided by an inner first threaded portion. Further, the second securing means may be provided by an outer second threaded portion. However, the threaded portions could also be reversed. In other words, the first securing means could also be provided by an outer first threaded portion and the second securing means could also be provided by an inner second threaded portion. In this regard, the refrigerant device housing and the connector element may be relatively moved by relative rotation of the refrigerant device housing and the connector element when the first threaded portion and the second threaded portion are in engagement. The connector element may thus provide for a male connector element which may be connected to the refrigerant device housing providing a female connector element. Using a threaded connection between the refrigerant device housing allows for an easy disassembly after use and may thus facilitate recycling.

[0050] A pitch of the first threaded portion and / or the second threaded portion may preferably be at least 1 mm. In one aspect, the pitch may be for example 2 mm.

[0051] In one aspect, the copper layer or copper alloy layer of the connector element may provide for a lubricating effect when the second seal-forming portion of the connector element comes into abutment with the first seal-forming portion and is relatively axially moved with respect to the refrigerant device housing.

[0052] In one aspect, the first threaded portion may be arranged near to the first sealforming portion and the second threaded portion may be arranged near to the second seal-forming portion. In one aspect, the second threaded portion of the

[0053] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO connector element extends up to the second seal-forming portion. In one aspect, an axial distance between the first threaded portion and the beginning of the first seal-forming portion is less than 2 mm, preferably less than 0.8 mm. Between the first threaded portion and the first seal-forming portion there may be a notch. By arranging the threaded portions close to seal-forming portions, leverage forces do not become too high, and forces applied via the threaded portions through relative rotation can be transferred directly to the seal-forming portions. Further, the connector element may penetrate freely into the refrigerant housing, which may allow for an improved radial deflection as described below. Further, the notch may act as a safeguard so that at least one pitch, preferably more than one pitch, of the second securing means closest to the second seal-forming portion of the connector element is no longer engaged with the first securing means of the refrigerant device housing.

[0054] In one aspect, the connector element may comprise a tubular shape. Further, according to one aspect, the refrigerant device housing may comprise roundshaped outer contours. During assembling, the connector element may thus be held by a chuck in order to rotate the connector element with respect to the refrigerant housing, i.e. in order to screw the connector element into the refrigerant housing. However, once being assembled, it may be difficult for a third party to (unintentionally) disassemble the assembly. Still, for recycling, the connector element may be held by pliers in order to for example unscrew the connector element from the refrigerant device housing.

[0055] In one aspect, the refrigerant device housing and the connector element may be relatively, axially moved until at least a portion of the first seal-forming portion of the refrigerant device housing provided by the softer first material has been axially, plastically yielded by at least 0.1 mm. In other words, the relative axial movement between the connector element and the refrigerant device housing when the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion are in abutment may

[0056] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO be at least 0.1 mm. In this regard, first material at the first seal-forming portion may be axially, plastically yielded by pressure load applied from the connector element comprising the second material, i.e. a deformation-inducing material. Further, the corresponding plastic deformation as a result of plastically yielding may be measured between the shortest distance of a surface point of the first sealforming portion before deformation to a corresponding surface point, i.e. the same surface point, of the first seal-forming portion after deformation. The hermetic fluid seal may thus be provided by mere plastic deformation of the first seal-forming portion.

[0057] According to one aspect, the refrigerant device housing may form a valve housing, for example a valve housing for a solenoid valve. In this regard, the valve housing may provide for a main valve seat of a main valve element of a main valve assembly. The corresponding solenoid valve may be an axial flow control valve. Further, the refrigerant device housing may comprise a pilot valve assembly for control of the main valve assembly. In addition, or alternatively, the connector element may form an inlet connector configured to supply fluid to the valve housing, for example from the refrigerant circuit. Alternatively, the connector element may form an outlet connector, for example a diffuser, configured to discharge fluid from the valve housing into the refrigerant circuit. In this regard, and as described above, the first interior may be in fluid communication with the second interior.

[0058] In one aspect, an assembly may comprise two connector elements and one refrigerant device housing. In this regard, the aforementioned method steps may be performed twice, once for providing a hermetically sealing between the inlet connector and the refrigerant device housing and once for providing a hermetically sealing between the outlet connector and the refrigerant device housing. However, the connector elements could also be connected simultaneously to the refrigerant device housing. The refrigerant device housing may thus comprise two first seal-forming portions, one for engaging with the second seal-forming portion

[0059] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO of the inlet connector and one for engaging with the second seal-forming portion of the outlet connector. Alternatively, only one of the inlet connector and the outlet connector may be connected to the refrigerant device housing by the method according to the invention, wherein the other one of the inlet or outlet connector may be connected to the refrigerant device housing by an alternative method such as brazing or the like.

[0060] According to a further aspect of the invention, the object is also solved by an assembly, in particular assembled by the method according to the aforementioned aspects. The assembly is configured to be used in a refrigerant circuit and comprises a refrigerant device housing, at least one connector element and a sealing element. The refrigerant device housing, the at least one connector element and the sealing element may comprise any one of the aforementioned aspects, mentioned with respect to the method for assembly.

[0061] Hence, the refrigerant device housing has a first interior for receiving fluid and first securing means. Further, the refrigerant device housing comprises an integrally formed first seal-forming portion. The refrigerant device housing is made of a metallic, ductile, plastically deformable first material. Further, the at least one connector element has a second interior for receiving fluid and for forming fluid communication to the first interior, when being connected thereto. Further, the connector element comprises second securing means and an integrally formed second seal-forming portion. The connector element is secured to the refrigerant device housing under use of the first securing means and the second securing means. In this regard, the first securing means and the second securing means may engage or may be used with further connecting means making use of the first securing means and the second securing means. Furthermore, the connector element is made of a metallic second material. The second material is harder than the first material.

[0062] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0063] Further, a hermetic fluid seal is formed between the first seal-forming portion and the second seal-forming portion by plastic deformation of the first seal-forming portion. In this regard, the first seal-forming portion abuts directly against the second seal-forming portion. More precisely, the deformed first seal-forming portion may abut directly against the deformation-inducing second seal-forming portion. In addition, the assembly comprises a sealing element. The sealing element may be an O-ring. When the refrigerant device housing and the connector element are hermetically sealed, i.e. when the first seal-forming portion has been deformed by the deformation inducing second seal-forming portion, the sealing element is arranged between the refrigerant device housing and the connector element outside the first seal-forming portion and outside the second seal-forming portion.

[0064] The assembly may thus be a product which is assembled by the method described above. However, also a different method may be used for assembly. To give an example in this regard, if two connector elements may be hermetically sealed with the refrigerant device housing, the two connector elements may be simultaneously relatively moved with respect to the refrigerant device housing in opposite directions. Regardless of the type of method used, the assembly has the advantages mentioned above in relation to the method.

[0065] In one aspect, the first seal-forming portion may be provided by a first chamfered surface with a first angle of between 30° and 70° and a first length of between 0.25 mm and 2 mm. Preferably the first seal-forming portion has a fist angle of about 45° and a first length of about 0.35 mm or 0.5 mm. Further, additionally or alternatively, the second seal-forming portion may be provided by a second chamfered surface with a second angle of between 30° and 70° and a second length of between 0.25 mm and 10 mm. Preferably the second seal-forming portion has a second angle of about 45° and a second length of about 0.5 mm or 0.8 mm.

[0066] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0067] According to one aspect, the first angle and the second angle are the same. According to a further, additional or alternative, aspect, the first seal-forming portion, which is provided by the softer first material of the refrigerant device housing, is smaller than the second seal-forming portion. Preferably the first seal-forming portion is between 1 times and 5 times smaller than the second seal-forming portion. In this regard, the first length may for example be between 1 times and 5 times smaller than the second length.

[0068] Providing chamfered portions as seal-forming portions is a simple means in terms of manufacturing. In addition, the chamfered portions allow both to absorb axial and radial forces and to provide a force in radial direction by merely applying an axial force, there sliding the chamfered surfaces against each other. The force in radial direction may be advantageous for radial deflection, as described below with respect to a further aspect. Furthermore, the selected dimensions of the chamfered portions allow for sufficient hermetic sealing and that the first sealforming portion can deform when loaded by the second seal-forming portion, as the corresponding relative dimensions leave areas free into which the deformed material may penetrate. In other words, areas next to the first seal-forming portion are available as material-receiving areas.

[0069] Further, in one embodiment, there may be a radial spring effect in the area where the hermetic fluid seal is created. In this regard, the at least one connector element may have a recess between the second seal-forming portion, which is configured so that the second seal-forming portion may be radially deflected in a resilient manner during formation of the hermetic fluid seal. In this regard, the at least one connector element may comprise an annulus-shaped end face facing towards the refrigerant device housing. The annulus-shaped end face may be formed by the recess provided centered with respect to the second seal-forming portion. Further, the recess may extend axially over at least a portion of the second seal-forming portion. In other words, there may be material-free areas with

[0070] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO respect to the second seal-forming portion. In yet other words, areas of the connector element may protrude in an annular shape from an end surface directed towards the refrigerant device housing, wherein the second seal-forming portion is arranged on the annular-shaped protrusion, for example as a second chamfered surface. When the connector element is connected to the refrigerant device housing, for example screwed onto the refrigerant device housing, these protrusions comprising the second seal-forming portions may elastically, radially deflect and may thus act like a spring and may provide a radial pre-tension. In this regard, it may be advantageous if the connector element, for example the second sealforming portion of the connector element, comprising the harder second material deflects elastically when generating the hermetic fluid seal in such a way that differences in thermal expansion may be compensated for. In residential refrigerant circuits, the refrigerant is usually takes on temperatures in a range between -30°C and +80°C. The resulting different thermal expansions of the refrigerant device housing and the connector element may be different due to the dissimilar materials and may thus lead to an impairment of the hermetic fluid seal. Consequently, the resulting radial preload may keep the fluid seal hermetically sealed, even if thermal expansions occur due to temperature changes, in particular different thermal expansions due to dissimilar materials.

[0071] In one aspect, movements of the elastically deflected portion of the connector element that may occur between thermal cycles, for example between thermal cycles in a range between -30°C and +160°C, may be small, for example in a range of up to a few tenths of a millimeter. Thus, when the first material may be axially, plastically yielded by about 0.15 mm, the radial deflection may be between 0.05 mm and 0.2 mm. In this regard, the radial deflection may be defined by measuring an undeflected state before assembly and an assembled state in which the radial deflection is formed.

[0072] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0073] According to a further embodiment, the first securing means and the second securing means are arranged between the sealing element and the fluid seal. Consequently, and as aforementioned, the first securing means and the second securing means may be protected, for example from galvanic corrosion, by the sealing element and the hermetic fluid seal.

[0074] In one further aspect, the first material may be aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and / or the second material may comprise steel, stainless steel, copper and / or bronze. Preferably the connector element may be a bi-metal connector element made of copper-plated steel or copper-plated stainless-steel. Further, the aforementioned aspects regarding the first material and the second material mentioned with respect to the method, also apply for the assembly. The same accounts for the more detailed aspects provided with respect to the feature according to which the connector element may be formed in one piece, when referring to a method for assembly. If two connector elements are used to be connected to the refrigerant device housing, i.e. if the assembly comprises a refrigerant device housing and two connector elements, each one of the connector elements may be formed in one piece. This means that there may be two separate one-piece connector elements.

[0075] According to a further aspect, already addressed above, the first securing means may be provided by an inner first threaded portion, wherein the second securing means may be provided by an outer second threaded portion. Thus, the connector element may provide a male connector element with respect to the refrigerant device housing. In other words, the refrigerant device housing may be a female part. According to one aspect, however, for example if two connector elements are assembled with the refrigerant device housing, the refrigerant device housing may also provide a female part for one connector element and a male part for the other connector element. In other words, one connector element may protrude into the refrigerant device housing in order to form a hermetic fluid seal, wherein

[0076] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO the refrigerant device housing may protrude into the other connector element to form the hermetic fluid seal.

[0077] In one aspect, the pitch of the first threaded portion and the pitch of the second threaded portion, which may for example be at least 1 mm, for example 2 mm, may be at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times, larger than the first length of the first chamfered surface of the first seal-forming portion. In other words, if the pitch may be 2 mm, the first length may be less than 1 mm. The relative dimension of the pitch of the first threaded portion and the pitch of the second threaded portion and the length of the first seal-forming portion may contribute to a force for deforming the first seal-forming portion coming, which may be provided by relative rotation of the connector element and the refrigerant device housing and the corresponding engagement of the first threaded portion and the second threaded portion. Furthermore, the relative dimensions may ensure that the threaded portions do not tear out, become damaged or become unusable.

[0078] According to a further aspect, the refrigerant device housing may form a valve housing, for example a valve housing for a solenoid valve, and the at least one connector element may form an inlet connector configured to supply fluid to the valve housing, for example from the refrigerant circuit, or an outlet connector, for example a diffuser, configured to discharge fluid from the valve housing into the refrigerant circuit. If the assembly comprises an inlet connector and an outlet connector as well as a valve housing, the valve housing may comprise two first sealforming portions which may be plastically deformed by the respective connector elements.

[0079] In summary, the method as well as the assembly therefore allow to provide a hermetic fluid seal by plastically deforming the first seal-forming portion. In addition, the sealing element, which does not contribute to the hermetic fluid seal, protects the fluid seal against galvanic corrosion in particular. Consequently, it is

[0080] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO possible to form a hermetic fluid seal from only two components by plastic deformation, so that the number of components can be significantly reduced. Further, the hermetic fluid seal has a long term reliability due to the protecting sealing element. Furthermore, the assembly may be easy to disassemble for recycling due to the non-use of material bonding connections, i.e. there are no intermaterial connection which are firmly bonded, but only detachable connections to provide the hermetic fluid seal. However, it should be considered that, for example, a welded connection outside the hermetic fluid seal may still make use of the inventive teaching, when the hermetic fluid seal would for example be provided according to the invention. Nevertheless, disassembling the assembly for recycling may be more complicated in this case.

[0081] Additional features, advantages and possible applications of the invention result from the following description of exemplary embodiments and the drawings. All the features described and / or illustrated graphically here form the subject matter of the invention, either alone or in any desired combination, regardless of how they are combined in the claims or in their references back to preceding claims.

[0082] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0083] Fig. 1 A shows an exemplary embodiment of an assembly in a sectional view along line A-A shown in Fig. 1 B;

[0084] Fig. 1 B shows a front view of the exemplary assembly shown in Fig. 1 A;

[0085] Fig. 1 C shows a detailed view of section B shown in Fig. 1 A;

[0086] Fig. 1 D shows a detailed view of section C shown in Fig. 1 A;

[0087] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0088] Fig. 2A shows a schematic view of a first configuration of first and second seal-forming portions;

[0089] Fig. 2B shows a schematic view of a second configuration of first and second seal-forming portions;

[0090] Fig. 3A shows a perspective front view of a connector element;

[0091] Fig. 3B shows a perspective rear view of the connector element shown in

[0092] Fig. 3A;

[0093] Fig. 3C shows a front view of the connector element shown in Figs. 3A and 3B; and

[0094] Fig. 3D shows a sectional view along line D-D shown in Fig. 3C.

[0095] In Figs. 1A to 3D same elements, i.e. elements that perform similar function or serve a similar purpose, may have the same reference numbers.

[0096] Fig. 1A shows an exemplary assembly 1 of an axial flow control valve comprising a refrigerant device housing 100, an inlet connector 200 and an outlet connector 300, i.e. two connector elements 200, 300, two sealing elements 201 , 301 as well as a main valve assembly 400 with a main valve element 401 and a pilot valve assembly 500 with a pilot valve element 501. Instead of having two connector elements 200, 300, the assembly 1 could also only have one connector element 200, 300, for example only an inlet connector 200 or only an outlet connector 300.

[0097] The refrigerant device housing 100 comprises a first interior 101 for receiving fluid. In this regard, fluid may flow from a second interior 202 of the inlet connector 200 into the first interior 101 of the refrigerant device housing 100. The main valve

[0098] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO element 401 , which is shown in Fig. 1A in a (fully) open position, may control a main fluid flow through the refrigerant device housing 100, i.e. from the inlet connector 200 to the outlet connector 300 comprising a second interior 302. In this regard, the main valve element 401 may be axially movable within the refrigerant device housing 100 along central axis X. When the main valve element 401 is opened, it is moved away from abutting main valve seat 402.

[0099] In Fig. 1A, the outlet connector 300 is a diffuser. The inlet connector 200 and the outlet connector 300 may thus allow to integrate the assembly 1 into a refrigerant circuit. In other words, the assembly 1 may form part of a refrigerant circuit comprising further components such as a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser and the like.

[0100] The main valve assembly and thus the main valve element 401 may be controlled via the pilot valve assembly 500 having the pilot valve element 501. In other words, the pilot valve assembly 500 may induce opening and closing of the main valve assembly 400. In this regard, an electromagnetic actuator , for example a solenoid actuator, may be used for actuating the pilot valve assembly 500. In this regard, a coil (not shown), to which electric current is applied, is used to move a movable armature 502 relative to a static armature 503. When the main valve assembly 400 is closed, opening the pilot valve assembly 500 by means of the solenoid actuator may open the main valve assembly 400 as a resilient force of a resilient element (not shown), e.g. a spring, that biases the main valve element 401 towards abutting the main valve seat 402 and a force generated by a pressure difference across the main valve element 401 is overcome by a pilot flow bypassing the main valve assembly 400 via the pilot valve assembly 500.

[0101] The temperature and pressure differences that act at different locations of the assembly 1 due to the refrigerant are variable and particularly depend on the valve positions, i.e. on whether refrigerant may flow through assembly 1 or not. At the

[0102] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO same time, sufficient sealing must be provided to seal the assembly 1 against the environment and to prevent leakages. The refrigerant device housing 100 is therefore provided with two first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and the inlet connector 200 as well as the outlet connector 300 are each provided with respective second seal-forming portions 203, 303 which are configured to engage with the fist seal-forming portions 102A, 102B.

[0103] In Fig. 1A, the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 are separated from one another as may be better seen from Figs. 1 C and 1 D. In other words, there is a gap 103A, 103B provided between the corresponding first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and second seal-forming portions 203, 303 which is to be closed by bringing the connector elements 200, 300 and the refrigerant device housing 100 together, i.e. the corresponding first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and second seal-forming portions 203, 303 in abutment.

[0104] Because of the gaps 103A, 103B, it could also be stated that assembly 1 is still in a pre-assembled state, i.e. not fully assembled.

[0105] Here, the corresponding first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and second sealforming portions 203, 303 may be brought in abutment by relatively axially moving the connector elements 200, 300 with respect to the refrigerant device housing 100. For example, once the first seal-forming portion 102A is in abutment with the second seal-forming portions 203, the inlet connector 200 may be further axially moved towards each other, for example, along central axis X, in order to plastically deform the first seal-forming portion 102A, thereby providing a hermetic fluid seal between the inlet connector 200 and the refrigerant device housing 100. Likewise, relative axial movement between the outlet connector 300 and the refrigerant device housing 100 can provide for a hermetic fluid seal between the first

[0106] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO seal-forming portion 102B and the second seal-forming portion 303 of the outlet connector 300.

[0107] In order to allow plastic deformation of the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B to provide for the hermetic fluid seal, the refrigerant device housing 100 is made of a metallic, ductile, plastically deformable first material. In Fig. 1 A, the refrigerant device housing 100 may be made of aluminum, for example. The first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B which are integrally formed with the refrigerant device housing 100 therefore have the same material as the refrigerant device housing 100.

[0108] Further, the second seal-forming portion 203 of the inlet connector 200 is integrally formed therewith and the second seal-forming portion 303 of the outlet connector 300, i.e. the diffuser, is integrally formed therewith. Furthermore, the inlet connector 200 and the outlet connector 300 are formed in one piece. In other words, the inlet connector 200 and the outlet connector 300 are only provided by a single component or part.

[0109] The inlet connector 200 and / or the outlet connector 300 may be bi-metal connector elements, i.e. comprising a core material that is coated with an outer layer. As such, the inlet connector 200 and / or the outlet connector 300 may for example comprise stainless steel as a core material which is plated, for example electroplated, with a copper layer. The copper layer may thus completely cover an outer surface 204, 304 of the respective connector element 200, 300. The outer surface 204, 304 concerns a surface within, i.e. inside, the connector elements 200, 300, for example surfaces of the second interior 202, 302, and surfaces outside. In other words, the outer surface 204, 304 concerns the entire surface of the connector elements 200, 300. Consequently, the copper layer may not only be covering for example the second interiors 202, 302 but also the second seal-forming portions 203, 303.

[0110] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0111] The connector elements 200, 300 therefore have a second material which is harder than the first material. When the refrigerant device housing 100 and the connector elements 200, 300 are relatively axially moved, the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B plastically deform and thereby provide for the hermetic fluid seal.

[0112] In this regard, the refrigerant device housing 100 comprises first securing means 104A, 104B, wherein the inlet connector 200 and the outlet connector 300 comprise corresponding second securing means 205, 305. The depicted securing means 104A, 104B, 205, 305 are provided by respective threaded portions, however, they could also be ratchets or the like.

[0113] The connector elements 200, 300 in Fig. 1A can thus be considered male connector elements engaging with the female connector element, i.e. the refrigerant device housing 100. In this regard, the connector elements 200, 300 may be screwed into the refrigerant device housing 100.

[0114] As can be noted from Figs. 1A to 1 B or Figs. 3A to 3D, the connector elements 200, 300 may comprise a tubular shape. Further, the refrigerant device housing 100 may comprise round-shaped outer contours. During assembling, the connector elements 200, 300 may thus be held by a chuck in order to rotate the connector elements 200, 300 with respect to the refrigerant housing 100, i.e. in order to screw the connector elements 200, 300 into the refrigerant housing 100. Providing threaded portions as securing means may thus allow for a comparably simple disassembly of the assembly 1 compared to a brazed connection, for example. The assembly 1 therefore allows material-orientated recycling when using dissimilar materials.

[0115] As can be further noted from Fig. 1 A, two sealing elements 201 , 301 are arranged between the refrigerant device housing 100 and the connector elements 200, 300

[0116] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO outside the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and outside the second sealforming portions 203, 303. In this regard, the inlet connector 200 and the outlet connector 300 comprise a corresponding groove 206, 306 configured to receive the sealing elements 201 , 301. Here, the sealing elements 201 , 301 are provided by O-rings. The groove 206 may be better seen from the inlet connector 200 depicted in Figs. 3A to 3D.

[0117] As may be noted from either one of Figs. 1A or 3A, the second securing means 205, 305 are arranged between the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 and the sealing elements 201 , 301. The sealing elements 201 , 301 may thus prevent that the securing means 104A, 104B, 205, 305 and / or the hermetic fluid seal is harmed by environmental influences. For example, water ingress may be prevented so that galvanic corrosion between the dissimilar materials may be prevented or at least limited. The hermetically sealed connection interface between the refrigerant device housing 100 and the connector elements 200, 300 may thus allow for a long term reliability.

[0118] A detailed view of the seal-forming portions 102A, 102B, 203, 303 as well as the gap 103A, 103B between the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 may be seen in Figs. 1 C and 1 D. The hermetic fluid seal is consequently not yet formed. However, when the seal-forming portions 102A, 102B, 203, 303 are relatively axially moved, the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B are plastically deformed, thereby providing the hermetic fluid seal. In this respect, the softer first material may be axially, plastically yielded by at least 0.1 mm.

[0119] As shown in Figs. 1 C and 1 D, the second securing means 205, 305 extend up to the second seal-forming portion 203, 303. However, in one aspect, the second securing means 205, 305 could also be separated from the second seal-forming portion 203, 303. In this regard, however, it may be advantageous if the second

[0120] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO seal-forming portion 203, 303 is arranged near the second seal-forming portion 203, 303, for example separated by only a few millimeters. Further, the first securing means 104A, 104B are arranged near to the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and are only separated from first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B by notches 105A, 105B. The notches 105A, 105B thus provide for an axial distance between the first securing means 104A, 104B and the beginning of the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B. This axial distance may be about 0.8 mm.

[0121] Providing a notch 105A or 105B between the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and the first securing means 104A, 104B allows that the second securing means 205, 305 are not engaged with the first securing means 104A, 104B in an area close to the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 when bringing the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 into abutment. In other words, the connector element 200, 300 can penetrate freely into the refrigerant housing 100. In yet other words, the notches 105A, 105B may act as a safeguard so that at least one pitch, preferably more than one pitch, of the second securing means 205, 305 closest to the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 of the connector elements 200, 300 is no longer engaged with the first securing means 104A, 104B of the refrigerant device housing 100.

[0122] Thus, when the connector element 200, 300 is relatively moved with respect to the refrigerant device housing 100, the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B deform plastically as the threaded portions of the securing means, which are in engagement, advance helically, i.e. simultaneously axially and radially, and a force is exerted on the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B via the second seal-forming portions 203, 303.

[0123] Two examples of a pair of seal-forming portions 102A, 102B, 203, 303 is shown in Figs. 2A and 2B. The seal-forming portions 102A, 102B, 203, 303 have chamfered surfaces, which can also be identified from Fig. 3A. The first chamfered

[0124] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO surfaces of the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B have a first length L1 and a first angle a. The second chamfered surfaces of the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 have a second length L2 and a second angle [3. As can be noted from Figs. 2A and 2B, but also for example from Figs. 1 C and 1 D, the first sealforming portion 102A, 102B, provided by the softer first material of the refrigerant device housing 100, is smaller than the second seal-forming portion 203, 303.

[0125] When the first chamfered surfaces of the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B and the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 are pushed against each other, the connector element 200, 300 is deflected radially inwards in some areas. The radial deflection may result in a radial spring effect in the area where the hermetic fluid seal is formed. In this regard, the inlet connector 200 as shown for example in Fig. 3D has a recess 207 between the second seal-forming portion 203, which is configured so that the second seal-forming portion 203 is radially deflected in a resilient manner during formation of the hermetic fluid seal. Likewise, the outlet connector 300, as for example shown in Fig. 1 A, comprises a recess 307 between the second seal-forming portion 303, which is configured so that the second sealforming portion 303 is radially deflected in a resilient manner during formation of the hermetic fluid seal.

[0126] In this regard, the connector element 200, 300 comprise an annulus-shaped end faces 208, 308 facing towards the refrigerant device housing 100. The annulusshaped end faces 208, 308 are formed by the recesses 207, 307 provided centered with respect to the second seal-forming portions 203, 303. As can be noted, for example from Fig. 3D, the recess 207 extends axially along the central axis X over the entire second seal-forming portion 203. Consequently, there is a mate- rial-free area with respect to the second seal-forming portion 203.

[0127] In yet other words, the connector element 200, 300 comprises an annular-shaped protrusion 209, 309, wherein the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 are

[0128] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO arranged on the annular-shaped protrusion 209, 309. Thus, these protrusions 209, 309 comprising the second seal-forming portions 203, 303 elastically, radially deflect, when the connector elements 200, 300 are relatively axially moved with respect to the refrigerant device housing 100 in order to plastically deform the first seal-forming portions 102A, 102B. Due to the radial deflection towards the central axis X, the protrusions 209, 309 may act like a spring. The resulting radial preload or radial pre-tension keeps the hermetic fluid seal hermetically sealed over thermal cycles and resulting different thermal expansions due to the dissimilar materials. The elastic deflection may thus allow for a strong sealing over time.

[0129] In summary, the assembly 1 thus provides a hermetic fluid seal by plastic deformation of two different materials of the refrigerant device housing 100 and the corresponding at least one connector element 200, 300. The hermetic fluid seal is thus formed by just two components. The components are detachable and therefore allow easy recycling. The choice of materials can also favor sealing. A connector element 200, 300 as a bi-metal connector comprising a copper or copper plated outer surface is particularly preferred. Furthermore, the fluid seal and preferably an engagement between the securing means 104A, 104B, 205, 305 is protected by an additional sealing element 201 , 301 , which has a particularly positive effect on the durability and reliability of the hermetic fluid seal. In addition, an elastic radial deflection provided during assembling the assembly 1 ensures continuous hermetic sealing even in the event of major temperature-related influences.

[0130] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0131] List of reference signs

[0132] 1 assembly refrigerant device housing

[0133] 101 first interior

[0134] 102A, 102B first seal-forming portion

[0135] 103A, 103B gap

[0136] 104A, 104B first securing means

[0137] 105A, 105B notch

[0138] 200 inlet connector (connector element)

[0139] 201 sealing element

[0140] 202 second interior (of the inlet connector)

[0141] 203 second seal-forming portion (of the inlet connector)

[0142] 204 outer surface (of the inlet connector)

[0143] 205 second securing means (of the inlet connector)

[0144] 206 groove (of the inlet connector)

[0145] 207 recess (of the inlet connector)

[0146] 208 annulus-shaped end face (of the inlet connector)

[0147] 209 protrusion (of the inlet connector)

[0148] 300 outlet connector (connector element)

[0149] 301 sealing element

[0150] 302 second interior (of the outlet connector)

[0151] 303 second seal-forming portion (of the outlet connector)

[0152] 304 outer surface (of the outlet connector)

[0153] 305 second securing means (of the outlet connector)

[0154] 306 groove (of the outlet connector)

[0155] 307 recess (of the outlet connector)

[0156] 308 annulus-shaped end face (of the outlet connector)

[0157] 309 protrusion (of the outlet connector)

[0158] 400 main valve assembly

[0159] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

[0160] 401 main valve element

[0161] 402 main valve seat

[0162] 500 pilot valve assembly

[0163] 501 pilot valve element 502 movable armature (of a solenoid actuator)

[0164] 503 static armature (of a solenoid actuator) a first angle

[0165] P second angle

[0166] L1 first length L2 second length

[0167] X central axis

[0168] October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

Claims

Claims:

1. Method for assembling of a hermetically sealed connection interface of a refrigerant circuit between a refrigerant device housing (100) and a connector element (200; 300), the method comprises the following steps:• Providing the refrigerant device housing (100) with a first interior (101 ) for receiving fluid, wherein the refrigerant device housing (100) comprises first securing means (104A, 104B) and an integrally formed first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B), and wherein the refrigerant device housing (100) is made of a metallic, ductile, plastically deformable first material;• Providing the connector element (200; 300) with a second interior (202;302) for receiving fluid and for forming fluid communication to the first interior (101 ), wherein the connector element (200; 300) comprises second securing means (205; 305) and an integrally formed second seal-forming portion (203; 303), and wherein the connector element (200; 300) is made of a metallic second material;• Providing a sealing element (201 ; 301 ), for example an O-ring;• Bringing the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) together, such that the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) directly abuts the second seal-forming portion (203; 303) and the sealing element (201 ; 301 ) is arranged between the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) outside the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) and outside the second seal-forming portion (203;303); and• Relatively, axially moving the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) towards each other when being in abutment, thereby plastically deforming the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) such that the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) and the second sealforming portion (203; 303) together form a hermetic fluid seal, wherein theOctober 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WOconnector element (200; 300) is secured to the refrigerant device housing (100) under use of the first securing means (104A, 104B) and the second securing means (202; 303), and wherein the second material is harder than the first material.

2. Method according to claim 1 , wherein, at least when the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) have been relatively, axially moved in order to plastically deform the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B), the first securing means (104A, 104B) and the second securing means are arranged between the sealing element (201 ; 301 ) and the fluid seal.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first material is aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and / or wherein the second material comprises steel, stainless steel, copper and / or bronze, and wherein preferably the connector element (200; 300) is a bi-metal connector element made of copper-plated steel or copper-plated stainless steel.

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector element (200; 300) is formed in one piece.

5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first securing means (104A, 104B) is provided by an inner first threaded portion, wherein the second securing means (205; 305) is provided by an outer second threaded portion, and wherein the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) are relatively moved by relative rotation of the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) when the first threaded portion and the second threaded portion are in engagement.

6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) are relatively,October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WOaxially moved until at least a portion of the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) of the refrigerant device housing (100) provided by the softer first material has been axially, plastically yielded by at least 0.1 mm.

7. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein- the refrigerant device housing (100) forms a valve housing, for example a valve housing for a solenoid valve, and- the connector element (200; 300) forms an inlet connector (200) configured to supply fluid to the valve housing, for example from the refrigerant circuit, or an outlet connector (300), for example a diffuser, configured to discharge fluid from the valve housing into the refrigerant circuit.

8. Assembly (1 ), in particular assembled by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and configured to be used in a refrigerant circuit, wherein the assembly (1 ) comprises:• a refrigerant device housing (100) with a first interior (101 ) for receiving fluid, wherein the refrigerant device housing (100) comprises first securing means (104A, 104B) and an integrally formed first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B), and wherein the refrigerant device housing (100) is made of a metallic, ductile, plastically deformable first material, and• at least one connector element (200; 300) with a second interior (202; 302) for receiving fluid and for forming fluid communication to the first interior (101 ), wherein the connector element (200; 300) comprises second securing means (205; 305) and an integrally formed second seal-forming portion (203; 303), wherein the connector element (200; 300) is secured to the refrigerant device housing (100) under use of the first securing means (104A, 104B) and the second securing means (202; 303), wherein the connector element (200; 300) is made of a metallic second material, and wherein the second material is harder than the first material, wherein a hermetic fluid seal is formed between the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) and theOctober 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WOsecond seal-forming portion (203; 303) by plastic deformation of the first sealforming portion (102A, 102B), and wherein the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) abuts directly against the second seal-forming portion (203; 303), characterized in that the assembly (1 ) further comprises a sealing element (201 ; 301 ), for example an O-ring, and wherein, when the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) are hermetically sealed, the sealing element (201 ; 301 ) is arranged between the refrigerant device housing (100) and the connector element (200; 300) outside the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) and outside the second seal-forming portion (203; 303).

9. Assembly (1 ) according to claim 8, wherein the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B) is provided by a first chamfered surface with a first angle (a) of between 30° and 70°, preferably a fist angle (a) of about 45°, and a first length (L1 ) of between 0.25 mm and 2 mm, preferably a first length (L1 ) of about 0.35 mm or 0.5 mm, and / or wherein the second seal-forming portion (203; 303) is provided by a second chamfered surface with a second angle ([3) of between 30° and 70°, preferably a second angle ([3) of about 45°, and a second length (L2) of between 0.25 mm and 10 mm, preferably a second length (L2) of about 0.5 mm or 0.8 mm, and / or wherein the first seal-forming portion (102A, 102B), provided by the softer first material of the refrigerant device housing (100), is smaller than the second sealforming portion (203; 303), preferably between 1 times and 5 times smaller than the second seal-forming portion (203; 303).

10. Assembly (1 ) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the at least one connector element (200; 300) has a recess (207; 307) between the second seal-forming portion (203; 303), which is configured so that the second seal-forming portion (203; 303) is radially deflected in a resilient manner during formation of the fluid seal.October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO11. Assembly (1 ) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first securing means (104A, 104B) and the second securing means (205; 305) are arranged between the sealing element (201 ; 301 ) and the fluid seal.

12. Assembly (1 ) according to any one of claims 8 to 11 , wherein the first material is aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and / or wherein the second material comprises steel, stainless steel, copper and / or bronze, and wherein preferably the connector element (200; 300) is a bi-metal connector element made of copper-plated steel or copper-plated stainless-steel.

13. Assembly (1 ) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the connector element (200; 300) is formed in one piece.

14. Assembly (1 ) according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the first securing means (104A, 104B) is provided by an inner first threaded portion, wherein the second securing means (205; 305) is provided by an outer second threaded portion, and wherein the connector element (200; 300) provides a male connector element with respect to the refrigerant device housing (100).

15. Assembly (1 ) according to any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein- the refrigerant device housing (100) forms a valve housing, for example a valve housing for a solenoid valve, and- the at least one connector element (200; 300) forms an inlet connector (200) configured to supply fluid to the valve housing, for example from the refrigerant circuit, or an outlet connector (300), for example a diffuser, configured to discharge fluid from the valve housing into the refrigerant circuit.October 1, 2025 D 200 P 2646 WO

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