Using the right metals to create HVAC systems is very important. It can be the difference between good performance and low maintenance or systems that have frequent issues. At Brindley Metals we stock a huge range of materials to ensure our clients have easy access to them for various needs. We have coppers and aluminiums, including 3103 (H14) aluminium sheet and coil. Both can be viable for heating and cooling systems.
A key component
One of the parts where you need to choose carefully between aluminium and copper is the evaporator coil. This is the part that absorbs heat in your property to help provide cooling. It plays a vital role and can ruin the efficiency of the whole system if there is an issue.
In the past copper was a common choice for evaporator coils. That was primarily because of the thermal performance. It meant the metal could efficiently absorb heat and transfer it to refrigerant flowing through it.
However, it was soon found that dirt and other contaminants on the coil would harm performance. It could drop by as much as 30%. The big concern with copper here was corrosion. It could seriously affect the coil, both in terms of the cooling and how long it will last.
An alternative
Companies began experimenting with other materials to address the corrosion issue. What they found was that aluminium would offer better protection. It will not corrode as much over time, so you get long term performance.
Another benefit is aluminium has higher resistance to the development of pinhole leaks. A leak in the evaporator coil has an impact on performance because you lose refrigerant. The damage can also be very costly to fix. So, aluminium is a good option.
Today there is more choice with the coils. You can choose full copper systems, full aluminium ones, or copper coil with aluminium fins. It tends to come down to system requirements.
A great aluminium
As we said above, we stock lots of different materials. This includes 3103 (H14) aluminium sheet and coil. It is a commercial alloy that also includes manganese. HVAC applications are among its most common uses. It is a great choice for evaporators, heat exchangers, tubes, pipes, and even vehicle radiators.
The alloy has some really great characteristics. Firstly, it is medium strength and has far better mechanical properties than 1000 series alloys. It maintains these at high temperatures too.
Secondly, it has good resistance to atmospheric corrosion. That is crucial with HVAC systems.
Finally, it has very good weldability, whether it is gas or arc. Its brazability and solderability are excellent too.
The alloy has also had the H14 temper. That means there has been cold work hardening processes such as rolling or drawing. What this does is increase the strength whilst reducing the ductility.
Ordering 3103 (H14) aluminium sheet and coil
At Brindley Metals we work hard to make sure we offer materials in a range of forms. This includes sheet and coil, bars, and more. All of them are available in a choice of sizes and thicknesses for different needs. You can order from us with ease, and we can even give suggestions if you need any.
So, please get in touch today if you want 3103 (H14) aluminium sheet and coil or any of the other materials we stock. We can even arrange further processing and fabrication with experts if you need services.