© RACA Journal www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I May 2024 35
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TWO ADRENALINE JUNKIES COMPLETE GROUNDBREAKING R & D PROJECT
By Eamonn Ryan
Two young HC Group mechanical engineers – Niel Fourie ( 25 ), HC Group sales engineer , CO 2 systems ; and Mutshidzi Mutamba ( 26 ), HC Group Design engineer , HVAC – recently completed a groundbreaking project research .
The team represent the future of mechanical engineering – having great responsibility thrust at them early within their careers , and being able to make a difference .
The project ' s genesis lies in the common ground between refrigeration and air conditioning , with a focus on the environmental implications of refrigerants . As the industry increasingly prioritises environmental sustainability , the shift towards natural refrigerants within HVAC systems has gained momentum .
Mutamba is today focused on the HVAC side of mechanical engineering . His journey was shaped by his upbringing on a Limpopo farm . From a young age , he was immersed in the intricacies of working with his hands and mechanical components , fostering a deep appreciation for hands-on problem solving and innovation .
After completing high school , Mutamba pursued his passion for mechanical engineering at the University of Pretoria ( Tuks ). It was during his time at university that he developed a keen interest in heat transfer , laying a foundation for his future endeavors in the field .
He describes his joining HC Group as serendipitous , sparked by a fortuitous encounter during a training programme . As an engineer , Mutamba thrives on the challenges of research and development ( R & D ). “ As an engineer immersed in the problem-solving ethos , one loves to come up with new solutions and designs . Working on bespoke projects in refrigeration and air conditioning allows me to push the boundaries of creativity and think outside the box on bespoke projects – which this company allows one to do .” With a penchant for adrenaline-fuelled challenges , Mutamba embraces each new project as an opportunity to innovate and make a meaningful impact .
Looking ahead , he envisions a future where he can continue to contribute to the development of sustainable solutions . Projects like the natural refrigerant HVAC initiative exemplify his commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement . “ I want to remain actively involved in creating solutions that benefit both society and the environment .”
Fourie is focused on refrigeration rather than HVAC ( hence the team complemented each other ), and his journey into mechanical engineering was driven by a desire to leverage
( Right ) Niel Fourie ( 25 ), HC Group sales engineer , CO₂ systems ; and ( Left ) Mutshidzi Mutamba ( 26 ); HC Group Design engineer , HVAC .
his aptitude for mathematics and problem solving , searching for a career with the intellectual stimulation of innovation and creative challenges .
Fourie ’ s journey also began at Tuks , where he studied mechanical engineering , together with his team-mate . What sets Fourie apart is an unwavering commitment to innovation and pushing the envelope in an industry often resistant to change . “ My work in refrigeration , combined with Mutshidzi ’ s expertise in HVAC , exemplifies the fusion of two worlds and the potential for groundbreaking collaboration . My passion lies in challenging the status quo , striving to deliver solutions that prioritise energy efficiency , environmental impact and overall excellence . Whatever I ’ m working on , my passion is to find the best solution available in terms of technology at any moment in time . Because a lot of what we do is bespoke , that challenge changes every time .”
Looking ahead , Fourie envisions himself continuing his work but on a larger stage , with aspirations to pitch innovative solutions to industry giants like Google and Microsoft . While he remains rooted in his niche field , he is driven by a desire to make a significant difference in the industry , driving improvements and setting new standards for excellence . RACA
© RACA Journal www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I May 2024 35