www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I November 2024 15
Events and Exhibitions
COPELAND REBRANDING Wayne van der Merwe , sales manager at Copeland South Africa provided an update on recent developments within the business , which has undergone significant changes over the past year . Previously known as Emerson Climate Solutions , the company is now operating under the name Copeland , following its acquisition by Blackstone Investments . This transition marks a major shift as the business has been restructured into three main segments : HVAC , industrial solutions , and electronic controls , with a pronounced focus on compression technologies and sustainability .
Copeland boasts a global presence with 18 000 employees , 27 manufacturing facilities , and 12 research and development centres . The company is committed to driving advancements in energy efficiency and sustainable technologies , including the use of low global warming potential ( GWP ) refrigerants and renewable energy sources . Noteworthy investments have been made in biomethane and hydrogen blending , reflecting the company ’ s commitment to sustainability .
The presentation also highlighted Copeland ’ s adaptation to global trends such as modulation , traceability , and precise temperature control to meet evolving consumer expectations and regulatory requirements . The company ’ s global operations are expanding , with significant investments in research and development anticipated , particularly in North America and Asia .
THE DANFOSS RANGE OF HEAT EXCHANGERS In a presentation , Louwrens Dreyer from Danfoss provided a comprehensive overview of the company ' s diverse product range and recent developments . Danfoss , with its extensive operations in climate solutions , power electronics , drives , and power solutions , has made significant strides toward sustainability , including setting ambitious goals for net-zero emissions at three of its factories .
Dreyer highlighted Danfoss ' s offerings , particularly noting their range of heat exchangers . The company provides three types of heat exchangers : gasket and plate heat exchangers for industrial applications and edible oils ; microchannel heat exchangers for commercial uses ; and brazed plate heat exchangers used in chillers and data center cooling units .
In addition to heat exchangers , Danfoss ' s electronic controllers allow for advanced remote monitoring and management of cold rooms and other systems . The company ' s controllers are designed for ease of access and connectivity , enhancing the functionality of installed systems .
Dreyer also mentioned Danfoss ’ s acquisition of Eaton , integrating hydraulic and pneumatic supplies , and BOCK , which now complements their range of compressors . Danfoss offers
Gifts were handed out at the end of the presentations . various compressors , including scroll , fixed-speed , invertercontrolled , and ammonia compressors , with a recent push to integrate ammonia components into CO 2 applications , which is particularly relevant for the South African market .
FUCHS EXPANDS REACH Fuchs Lubricants SA , established in 1994 through the merger of three oil companies , has grown into a leading independent lubricant manufacturer , with a workforce of 160 employees . The company has expanded its reach across South Africa , operating six branches with its manufacturing headquarters in Sandton . Additionally , Fuchs is strengthening its presence in Africa , particularly in the southern region , and is working to establish further operations in northern Africa .
Specialising in food-grade lubricants and specialised
greases , Fuchs distinguishes itself in the global market as a top independent lubricant manufacturer . The company operates 35 production facilities and 57 operating companies worldwide , serving various industries including automotive , industrial , and mining sectors . Fuchs provides a broad range of lubricants , including those for automotive use , metalworking , and special applications including refrigeration oils and various lubricants with high thermo-chemical stability , low varnish formation , and reliable wear protection .
In Sandton , Fuchs has recently invested in expanding their facility , which will increase its capacity by 40 %.
ROTHENBERGER MARKS 40 YEARS IN SA Samantha Joffe , sales representative at Rothenberger SA , provided an overview of the company , emphasising its rich history and global presence . Founded in 1949 as a family-oriented business , Rothenberger has grown significantly , with operations in 36 countries and over 150 markets worldwide . The company , which has been active in South Africa since 1984 , is noted for its specialisation in HVAC tools and has maintained a strong family business ethos for more than 75 years .
Rothenberger operates with 35 sales organisations and 14 product sites , and boasts an in-house product development
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I November 2024 15