U.K.-based Conex Bänninger, a global provider of fittings, valves and accessories, plans to expand the diameter of its K65 copper alloy fittings from 2-⅛ to 2-⅝in (5.4 to 6.7cm) by the end of 2023.
That news was shared by Andreas Hinkler, Group Business Development Manager ACR for Conex Bänninger, a division of IBP, at the AHR Expo in Atlanta, Georgia, held February 6–8.
Developed in conjunction with Wieland, K65 is Conex Bänninger’s high- strength copper iron alloy fitting suitable for high-pressure refrigeration applications up to 130bar (1885psi), such as those using CO2 (R744).
The larger-diameter fittings are designed for industrial and cooling applications, noted Hinkler. “Now they’re doing bigger pipes with stainless steel,” he said. “But they change to K65 when we give them the opportunity to do so because it’s easier to use. With stainless steel you need a specialist welder, while with K65 you need only brazing, which anyone can do.”
Conex Bänninger also announced at AHR Expo that it plans to increase the diameter of its >B< MaxiPro flame-free press fittings from 1-⅜in (3.5cm) to 1-⅝in (4.1cm) and 2-⅛in during the first half of 2023.
Great potential in Japanese market
In Japan, Conex Bänninger will be resuming a search this year for a business partner/distributor for its products that was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, said Tom Mason, Marketing Manager UK and Ireland. Meanwhile, he added, it has supplied small quantities of its K65 fittings (brazing-style) for CO2 applications via its Netherlands partners Roba Metals.
Mason noted that there is “great potential” for Conex Bänninger to sell its K65 fittings in the Japanese market “given the many CO2 applications that exist there,” such as at convenience stores.
The company plans to attend the next ATMOsphere conference in Tokyo, tentatively scheduled for February 2024. The conference is organized by ATMOsphere, publisher of R744.com.
“They change to K65 when we give them the opportunity to do so because it’s easier to use.”
Andreas Hinkler, Group Business Development Manager ACR for Conex Bänninger
