www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I May 2025 1
RACA Journal: ISSN 1812-772X
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RACA Journal Publication www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za eamonn @ interactmedia. co. za
FRIGAIR 2025: IGNITING INNOVATION AND CHARTING THE FUTURE OF HVAC & R
The air conditioning, refrigeration, and ventilation sector in Southern Africa is on the cusp of its most significant gathering yet – FRIGAIR 2025. From June 4th to 6th, the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand will transform into a hub of industry expertise, cutting-edge technology, and invaluable networking opportunities. But FRIGAIR is more than just an exhibition, it ' s a crucial platform for knowledge exchange, and this year ' s seminar programme is set to be the most compelling to date, featuring a line-up of international and local thought leaders ready to tackle the industry ' s most pressing challenges and exciting advancements.
Day one, themed ENERGY / ENGINEERING, dives headfirst into the critical intersection of our industry and the environment. Global warming and its ramifications demand innovative solutions, and our speakers are at the forefront of this charge. Luigi Rossettini of Aermec Italy, will kick off the programme by exploring Global Warming Routes, providing essential guidelines on designing efficient hydronic systems.
Following this, Robert Fox, president of SAIRAC, will delve into energy efficiency in insulated structures. His talk will address the critical role of insulation in reducing energy consumption in structures like cold stores.
The engineering aspect of our industry will be further explored with Jannie Potgieter from Thermologika, who will present on thermal fluid systems.
The future of business models in our sector takes centre stage with Dawie Kriel of Energy Partners Refrigeration, discussing Cooling as a Service( case studies and success stories). He will share real-world examples of how this innovative approach can benefit businesses.
Ammonia refrigeration, a natural refrigerant with significant potential, will be the focus of Hannes Steyn, senior director at GEA. His presentation on the Improvement of Ammonia Refrigeration Systems will explore cutting-edge methods, including low-stage de-superheating and high-pressure liquid sub-coolers.
The ever-increasing demand for data and the energy required to cool data centres will be addressed by Michael Young. His technical talk on the design of data centres for optimal energy efficiency will unpack the complexities of liquid cooling technology.
Day two shifts focus to UPDATED LEGISLATION, NEW OCCUPATIONS AND TRADE TESTING, crucial elements shaping the future of our workforce and industry compliance. Virginia Mtshali from SAQCC Gas and David Botha from SARACCA will tackle matters around authorised refrigeration practitioners in South Africa, providing essential updates and clarity on
regulations impacting practitioners. The critical topic of South Africa’ s progress and obligations with regards to the phase out and phase down of global warming substances will be presented by Margaret Molefi from the National Department of Forestry Fisheries and Environment( DFFE). The future of skills development in our sector will be illuminated by Grant Laidlaw from the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy( ACRA). His presentation on the newly implemented national Refrigeration Occupational Qualifications will detail the new Refrigeration Mechanic qualifications, covering ammonia, fluorinated, hydrocarbon refrigerants and carbon dioxide, as well as the new air conditioning and refrigeration qualification.
The evolution of trade testing will be the focus of Gordon Banks, vice president of SAIRAC. His presentation on the National Trade test, including the phase-out of legacy trades and the new External Integrated Summative Assessment( EISA), is essential for understanding the current landscape of skills verification in the industry.
Looking at mitigating risks within the cold chain, Samuel Jacobs of Energy Partners, will present on Reimagining insurance- mitigating the risk in the cold chain.
Day three will be dedicated to INNOVATION AND REFRIGERANT TRENDS, featuring international speakers and the latest advancements shaping our industry. While the specific speakers and topics were still being finalised at the time of this programme release, the promise of insights into cuttingedge refrigerant technologies and innovative system designs is incredibly exciting. Expect to hear about high-performance compressors, advanced insulation materials and intelligent control systems enabled by IoT and machine learning.
Local expertise will also be on display on day three, with Michel Loubsher from A-Gas providing an update on refrigerant usage in Africa.
Further insights into refrigerant trends and innovations will be provided by Tobias Fuhrer. His presentation promises to offer a valuable perspective on the direction the industry is heading.
The seminar programme, packed with expert speakers and relevant topics, is an unmissable element of this event. Make sure you are there to be part of the conversation that will shape the future of our industry in Southern Africa and beyond. Register now and prepare to be inspired and informed at FRIGAIR 2025! RACA
Eamonn
www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I May 2025 1