Microchannel Heat Exchangers (MCHE) – FAQs
Answers to common questions about MCHE technology, design and compliance
Discover clear answers about microchannel heat exchangers (MCHE) — from MCHE technology and refrigerants to microchannel coil design, integration and lifecycle. We also cover aluminum microchannel coils and aluminum heat exchangers for HVACR and industrial cooling. This hub is updated monthly based on regulations, market trends and customer feedback.
Technology & Performance
A microchannel heat exchanger (MCHE) uses parallel flat tubes with multiple micro-channels and louvered fins to maximize surface area and heat transfer in a compact, lightweight geometry. Compared with fin-and-tube, MCHEs typically deliver higher heat transfer efficiency, significantly lower refrigerant charge and reduced air-side pressure drop. Modern aluminum microchannel coils also improve corrosion control and weight vs. copper/aluminum fin-and-tube.
Yes. Depending on the environment and duty cycle, additional corrosion-resistant treatments can be applied to the aluminum surfaces. Typical options include electrophoretic coatings, hydrophilic finishes or epoxy layers. The treatment is specified to balance coating thickness, fin density and target capacity, preserving thermal performance while extending service life in coastal or industrial atmospheres.
Yes — our MCHE units are suitable for dry coolers and for CO₂ (R744) systems. They are designed and rated for the corresponding working pressures and duty points; no external validation is required.
Refrigerants & Compliance
Yes. We design for A2L readiness focusing on material compatibility, charge minimization, ventilation and the applicable safety standards in each market. This supports F-Gas objectives and fleet decarbonization.
We engineer MCHE solutions for R290 and also for CO₂ (R744) duty points as specified in each project, including pressure ratings, leak-tightness and documentation for compliance.
MCHEs lower refrigerant charge and improve heat transfer efficiency — two key levers that support regulatory compliance and decarbonization in HVACR and industrial cooling.
Projects are delivered in line with the relevant directives and norms for pressure equipment, materials and electrical safety. Specific conformity and test reports are supplied per project scope.
Design & Integration
To size a coil, we need the operating and geometric parameters that define both air and refrigerant sides. These include the refrigerant type, external dimensions (height and length), and inlet air conditions such as temperature, humidity, and airflow or velocity. Additionally, refrigerant inlet and saturation temperatures, along with either outlet subcooling or refrigerant flow rate, are required to determine the coil’s thermal performance.
Yes. We can mirror mounting points and connections, adapt geometry and fin density, and align port orientation to minimize redesign and downtime.
Procurement & Lifecycle
Climetal recommends cleaning MCHE coils at least once a year using pH-neutral cleaners and water or air up to 120 bar (applied perpendicular to fins). After cleaning, inspect for corrosion and apply protective coating if needed. Avoid acidic or alkaline products to protect the aluminum layer.
Lead times vary with complexity, protective treatment, materials and volumes. We confirm timelines at quotation and can propose buffer/expedite options for urgent projects.
Higher efficiency, reduced refrigerant charge, lighter weight and robust coatings help lower operating costs and extend service intervals over the equipment life, improving total cost of ownership (TCO).
Yes — our engineering team supports design, prototyping and validation to hit performance and compliance targets. Contact us for custom microchannel heat exchanger design.
