AC makers discuss product innovation

Emphasising on the advantages of smaller diameter, copper tube development in India, International Copper Association India (ICA India) organised a special seminar in Gurugram. The seminar was hosted with an aim to showcase how smaller-diameter tubes can be used to increase the rate of heat transmission through coils in numerous applications, thereby improving the energy efficiency of appliances, including air conditioners. 

Gracing the event in large numbers were professionals from the R&D team of room air conditioners and coil manufacturers from across the country. Sanjeev Ranjan, Managing Director, ICA India welcomed the dignitaries through his special address. The panel at the seminar included Frank Gao, ICA China, Ajay Sharma, Spirotech Heat Exchangers, Dr Wu, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Hong Qingchi, Hailiang Co Ltd, Anand Sharma, Burr Oak Tools Inc, Harshal Upadhyay, Zamil Air Conditioners, and Avinash Khemka, ICA India.

Speaking at the seminar, Sanjeev Ranjan, Managing Director, ICA India said “Smaller Diameter Copper Tube Heat Exchangers are used to make refrigeration equipment, heat pumps and air conditioners that are a great energy efficient alternative. They have a key role to play in the design of ACR products and is one of the best alternative to use with green refrigerants. As an association, we are proud to host seminars and workshops for our associates and stakeholders educating them on energy-efficient solutions that would positively amplify their product. Microgroove is one piece of the sustainability puzzle for cooling and refrigeration and is suitable for use with many eco-friendly refrigerants.”

The use of 5 mm Copper Heat Exchangers in condensers reduces cost, creates higher energy efficiency, and comes with high durability and demands low investments. This advanced heat transfer efficiency, therefore, increases the overall energy efficiency of the system. The use of smaller tubes also improves the air-flow outside the tubes because of the concentrated form factor. The seminar proceeded to focus on sessions on the reliability, application, performance along with the manufacturing opportunities, challenges and solutions for the 5 mm heat exchangers.

“Copper is a recognised tube material for ACR application. The 5mm microgroove coils are highly effective alternative to MCHX (Micro Channel Heat Exchanger). The room air conditioner sales in India is estimated to be 6 mn units in 2018, making India one of the largest and fastest growing market globally. Increased infrastructural development, urbanization, high standard of living, and rising disposable income has made air conditioners more of a necessity than a luxury. With revision of Star Labeling by BEE in 2018, AC manufacturers are innovating to provide reliable and energy efficient ACs at an affordable cost, 5 mm heat exchangers has emerged as a practical, economical and eco-friendly solution for HVAC industry”, says Avinash Khemka, Chief Manager HVAC, International Copper Association India.