
If you are in the market for a new air conditioner or refrigerator,
check the label to be sure that the unit you want is energy
efficient. An energy efficient unit, which is made with more
copper and better insulation, can substantially reduce your
electric bills over the life of the product. These units can
also help to meet national and regional energy policy and conservation
targets.
Copper and copper alloys are widely used in air conditioning
and refrigeration equipment. The selection of copper stems from
its superior heat transfer properties, corrosion resistance,
ease of fabrication and joining, strength, and machinability.
Copper, brass, bronze, and other copper alloys afford great
latitude in manufacturing AC systems and components. These metals
can be easily cast, forged, and machined.
Copper tubing can be easily bent and formed to fit around obstructions,
eliminating many joints that are required when other metals
are used for tubing. Copper tubing simplifies the installation
of refrigerant lines and vent pipes and is impervious to corrosion
by moisture and refrigerants, with the exception of ammonia.
Air conditioning and refrigeration systems demand a lot of electricity.
A global initiative to reduce electrical energy requirements
in these systems will in part rely on copper for efficient compressors.
|
|