Innovative Alloys Are Key to Processes for Brazing Copper and Brass, Says International Copper Association
NEW YORK--CuproBraze® is a breakthrough technology for brazing radiators, charge-air coolers, oil coolers, heaters and climate control products. Besides a suitable furnace and brazing technical know-how, perhaps the most important components of this process are the copper and brass strips that are used to make fins and tubes. The leading strip supplier is reasserting its commitment to CuproBraze while changing its corporate identity.
Luvata is a large supplier of metal strip for industrial applications. Formerly known as Outokumpu Copper, it traces its roots back over 500 years. In 2006, it was named Luvata, after a Finnish word with the meaning “to promise,” emphasizing its commitment to its customers. The company is currently undertaking many customer-driven research and development initiatives to improve product properties, production yields and efficiency.
“Luvata has been a staunch supporter of CuproBraze technology from the beginning,” says Nigel Cotton, automotive manager for the International Copper Association. “Luvata continues to produce the special anneal-resistant copper and brass strips that are essential for CuproBraze production and it offers expertise and guidance to manufacturers interested in the CuproBraze technology.”
Radiators disperse thermal energy (heat) from the engine’s coolant. Charge air coolers remove heat from a turbocharger’s compressed charge of air that is en route to a diesel engine. For these heat exchangers to operate efficiently and effectively, they must provide excellent thermal conductivity, strength and durability. The new CuproBraze technology provides flexibility of design with superior thermal performance.
Luvata is presenting a panel discussion titled “CuproBraze: Promises and Expectations” at the 54th annual National Automotive Radiator Service Association (NARSA) Convention and Trade Show taking place October 29 through November 2, 2006 at Harrah’s Casino and Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. The discussion, scheduled from 2:45 to 4:15 pm on Monday October 30, will feature panel members speaking candidly about challenges in the manufacture, design and marketing of CuproBraze radiators and charge air coolers. For more information on the presentation and the NARSA convention, please visit its website at www.narsa.org.
For more details about CuproBraze technology, contact the International Copper Association, (212) 251-7245 or write to ICA at 260 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10016-2401.
The International Copper Association, Ltd. is the leading organization for the promotion of the use of copper worldwide. The Association’s twenty-nine members represent about 80 percent of the world’s refined copper output, and its six associate members are among the world’s largest copper and copper-alloy fabricators. ICA is responsible for guiding policy, strategy and funding of international initiatives and promotional activities. With headquarters in New York City, ICA operates in 28 worldwide locations through a network of regional offices and copper development associations.