Short answer: HVAC and refrigeration systems rely on copper tube for refrigerant lines, aluminium for coils and fins, and coated or galvanized steel for cabinets and duct, with grade chosen for heat transfer, formability and long corrosion life in humid service.
At a Glance
Refrigerant Lines and Coils
Copper carries the refrigerant and aluminium forms the coil and fins, a pairing explained in our Copper Pipe Tube Guide and Copper Supplier; the busbar and conductor angle is in our Busbar Copper vs Aluminium guide.
Cabinets, Duct and Structure
Outdoor units and duct need coated or galvanized steel for corrosion life and looks; the options are in our PPGI PPGL Coated Steel and What is Coated Steel pages, with base grades in our Carbon Steel Supplier.
Corrosion in Humid Service
Condensate and coastal sites attack bare metal, so stainless and coated finishes earn their keep; the environment case is in our Corrosion Resistance Guide and Seawater Corrosion Guide.
Weight and Efficiency
Lighter aluminium coils cut unit weight and improve efficiency; the weight trade-off is in our Aluminum Supplier and Steel vs Aluminium comparison, with alloy detail in our What is Aluminum Alloy.
Get a Quote
Tell HXSCO your requirements and we will respond with a competitive quote and lead time.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is easy to braze, clean and resists internal corrosion.
It is light and conductive, lowering unit weight and cost.
Pre-painted or galvanized steel for corrosion life and appearance.
Use stainless or coated finishes to resist salt-air corrosion.
In coils and fins yes; refrigerant lines still favour copper for joining.
Source HVAC Metal from HXSCO
HXSCO supplies copper tube, aluminium coil stock and coated steel for HVAC and refrigeration. Send your bill of materials for a quote.