www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I November 2024 17
Business
COPPER IN HVAC & R
By Eamonn Ryan
Local statistics on copper usage within HVAC & R are opaque , with many companies preferring to maintain confidentiality regarding their usage patterns , citing competitive advantages .
In a recent interview with Evert Swanepoel , non-executive chairman of the Copper Development Association Africa ( CDAA ) on the role of copper in the HVAC & R sector , he shed light on significant shifts and challenges faced by the International Copper Association ( ICA ) and its impact on promoting copper worldwide .
" It ' s interesting to note that while copper enjoys popularity overseas , its use in South Africa is not as widespread . Many years ago , the ICA formed a committee to guide its initiatives in promoting copper globally . However , as market conditions and operational strategies evolved , there was a reassessment of the ICA ' s role ." This re-evaluation led it to streamlining operations and reducing overhead costs by 33 %. Notably , this restructuring affected global promotion and marketing support of CDAs globally .
" Initially , there was substantial investment in promoting antimicrobial copper due to its potential health benefits . However , after careful evaluation , the ICA decided to discontinue active promotion , citing insufficient returns on investments and challenges in substantiating antimicrobial claims ."
Reflecting on recent developments in the South African market , Swanepoel noted significant shifts impacting copper usage . " Historically , air conditioning units predominantly featured copper components . However , over the years , there has been a noticeable transition to aluminum , driven largely by cost considerations and ease of installation . It is important to note that the use of copper in HVAC is still substantial ."
Addressing the distinction between HVAC and plumbing sectors , he highlighted evolving preferences . " Microgroove copper tubing , known for its durability and performance , is gaining traction , particularly in specialised applications in HVAC . Despite being imported , its superior service capabilities justify its adoption ."
" The potential for local production of specialised copper products hinges on market demand . Currently , Copper Tubing Africa ( CTA ) and Maksal dominate production volumes , with Maksal emerging as a major exporter to Asian markets ."
" Currently , much of the virgin copper is imported , primarily from countries like Zambia , the Democratic Republic of Congo ( DRC ), Germany , and Russia . In contrast , South Africa ' s output represents a small fraction , approximately 2 %, of global production . Transport costs add to the expense , making imported copper less economically favourable and severely restricting export opportunities for local manufacturing companies ."
Highlighting recent developments in local mining , Swanepoel mentioned significant projects underway . " Palabora Mining Company and Orion Minerals are notable examples ," explains Swanepoel . " Palabora is completing a new smelter after a
1 2
All images by © RACA Journal
1 and 2 : Copper in widespread use as reflecting in copper parts at a recent SAIRAC-organised site visit to HC Heat Exchangers ( described elsewhere in this issue ).
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I November 2024 17