SPOTLIGHT


Pipework that’s futureproof, not futuretense


As nextgen refrigerants reshape RAC design, Mike Lucken, Conex Bänninger’s Technical Sales Manager – ACR, argues that proven K65 and >B< MaxiPro systems give engineers the confi dence to keep pace with tightening environmental rules.


T


he development of modern refrigerants has been driven largely by international environmental agreements. Early


refrigeration systems relied on chlorofl uorocarbons (CFCs), which were phased out following global action under the 1985 Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer; and the Montreal Protocol (1987) after links to ozone depletion were established. These were replaced by hydrochlorofl uorocarbons (HCFCs), and later hydrofl uorocarbons (HFCs), which eliminated ozone damage but introduced high Global Warming Potential (GWP). Increasing concern over climate change led to further regulation, including the Kigali Amendment (2016) which initiated a global phased reduction of high-GWP refrigerants. Today, the HVACR industry is transitioning toward


lower-GWP alternatives, including hydrofl uoroolefi ns (HFOs), lower-impact HFC blends and natural refrigerants such as carbon dioxide and propane. Conex Bänninger is supporting this transition by


providing contractors and system designers with fi tting solutions engineered for both current and emerging refrigerant technologies. Refrigerants are fundamental to commercial


refrigeration and air conditioning systems, transferring heat through sealed pipework operating under varying pressures, temperatures and chemical conditions. As refrigerant gases evolve in response to global environmental targets, jointing technologies must also adapt to ensure long-term safety, reliability and performance. Conex Bänninger fi ttings are tested to ensure compatibility with refrigerants, associated oils and the demanding pressure and temperature conditions found in refrigeration systems. Two specialist product ranges – K65 and >B< MaxiPro - support the majority of modern applications. A third: >B< Flow, is a customised Y-Joint, fully compatible with >B< MaxiPro.


K65 performs under high pressure Performance in high pressure refrigeration


38 May 2026 • www.acr-news.com


applications is vital and Conex Bänninger’s high strength copper iron alloy K65 fi ttings provide a safe, simple and economical solution up to 130 bar. Developed in conjunction with Wieland, the global leader in copper alloy tube production, K65 was created in response to the increased demand for CO2 R-744 in commercial refrigeration applications, and in particular supermarkets. With the markets phasing out high-GWP


refrigerants, Conex Bänninger’s K65 braze fi tting utilises quality materials to become the installer’s choice for high-pressure refrigeration applications. The product is much lighter, making it easier to cut and much quicker to transfer to the site compared to steel alternatives. It is available in a wide range of fi ttings from 3/8” through to 2 5/8”. The K65 range is specifi cally designed for high-


pressure carbon dioxide (CO₂ / R744) refrigeration systems, where operating pressures can reach up to 130 bar, far exceeding the limits of standard copper pipe. To meet these demands, K65 uses a copper- iron alloy that safely handles the increased stress while remaining lightweight and easy to braze, eliminating the need for welding. CO2 has zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential) and a GWP (Global Warming Potential) of just one. Therefore, it is being increasingly adopted in supermarket refrigeration, distribution centres and large retail environments seeking sustainable cooling solutions. K65 copper-ion fi ttings provide a robust solution ideally suited to these demanding applications and are covered by a 25-year guarantee when professionally fi tted.


>B< MaxiPro, fast and fl ame free For mainstream refrigeration and air conditioning installations, >B< MaxiPro press fi ttings off er a fast, consistent and fl ame-free jointing solution. Given that >B< MaxiPro is a mechanical joint, it eliminates the need for a nitrogen purge during the jointing process – a major benefi t for installers. Available in sizes from ¼” up to 1 5/8”, it is compatible with widely used refrigerants, including HFC refrigerants such as R404A, R410A and R32,


Mike Luken


HFO refrigerants such as R1234YF and Hydrocarbon refrigerants such as R290 (propane). These refrigerants remain central to commercial


HVAC and refrigeration systems across retail, hospitality, healthcare and offi ce environments. >B< MaxiPro supports safe installation while maintaining compatibility with modern refrigerant oils and operating conditions. The maximum operating and abnormal pressure


parameters for >B< MaxiPro is 48 bar and the O-ring temperature range of between -40° to 284°


C to 140°C (-40° F)


>B< Flow Y-Joint benefi ts VRF Conex Bänninger revolutionised pipe jointing for air conditioning and refrigeration applications by introducing its innovative >B< MaxiPro press fi t solution to the market. More recently, it introduced to the market >B< Flow, a customised Y-Joint, which is fully compatible with >B< MaxiPro. Ideally suited to VRF and VRV systems, >B< Flow


off ers installers several key features and benefi ts. It’s designed and stringently tested to deliver an improved and balanced fl ow inside the >B< Flow joint, reducing the level of turbulence and noise. In addition, a guaranteed equal distribution of refrigerant is conveyed through both legs, thereby providing optimum performance. As refrigerant technology continues to evolve, system pressures, safety classifi cations and environmental performance requirements are changing rapidly. Natural refrigerants and lower- GWP alternatives are expected to play an increasing role across both refrigeration and air conditioning sectors. Conex Bänninger is committed to ensuring its


fi tting technologies remain aligned with regulatory developments and future refrigerant adoption. By providing proven solutions for both established and emerging refrigerants - from high-pressure CO₂ systems using K65 to everyday HVAC applications supported by >B< MaxiPro – Conex Bänninger enables installers and designers to move confi dently toward a more sustainable cooling future.


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