CoResist
Copper-free heat exchangers: Coresist, AlfaNova and others
Standard copper-brazed plate heat exchangers are not suitable for every medium - especially where the highest hygiene requirements apply or aggressive chemicals are present. To avoid copper leaching into drinking water or rapid corrosion, copper-free heat exchangers are essential in industrial and heating projects.
SWEP Coresist vs. Alfa Laval AlfaNova: telling the technologies apart
- SWEP Coresist: The design uses a special nickel and stainless steel braze (Ni-brazed). It is an ideal and cost-effective solution for heavy industrial applications.
- Alfa Laval AlfaNova: Made of 100% stainless steel with no braze at all, using the unique "AlfaFusion" molecular bonding. It is the absolute standard for sanitary projects requiring the highest hygiene.
Please note that, for specific orders, some Hexonic heat exchangers with a stainless steel braze can also be adapted.
When is this equipment ESSENTIAL?
- Potable hot water (sanitary DHW): If the water pH is low or its chemical composition changes, there is a high risk of copper leaching into the drinking water. 100% SS models comply with the tightening EU and German (DE) directives on heavy metal migration.
- Industrial refrigeration and gases: Ammonia systems quickly destroy copper, so Coresist (Ni-brazed) or AlfaNova (100% SS) is essential here. These units are also resistant to hydrogen sulphide (H₂S).
- Aggressive media: Where high chloride resistance is required, standard Cu brazing cannot withstand the loads and loses its tightness.
Technical parameters and certificates
- Temperature tolerance: Because AlfaNova models have no traditional braze, they tolerate working temperatures of up to 500°C.
- Capacity: Wide applicability from 10 kW to 500 kW, covering both small sanitary units and large industrial lines.
- Certificates: Full compliance with hygiene standards is confirmed by WRAS (UK) and DE DVGW (Germany) certificates. For closed-loop systems requiring certification, an EN 12897 equivalent is ensured.
Price: copper-free vs. standard (Cu-brazed) models
When choosing equipment in the B2B sector it is important to plan the budget properly. The price of specialised Cu-free or Ni-free technologies is usually 2-3 times higher than that of standard plate heat exchangers. This is the key budget filter, but in aggressive media the investment pays for itself completely.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Can copper-brazed heat exchangers still be used for sanitary hot water?
Yes, standard models can be used, but only if the water's chemical composition (especially pH and chlorides) does not exceed the limits specified by the manufacturer. For higher-risk sites, copper-free technology is always recommended.
2. What is the main difference between Coresist and AlfaNova?
The essential difference is how the plates are joined. SWEP Coresist uses a nickel and SS braze (for industry, ammonia, H₂S). Alfa Laval AlfaNova is made entirely without braze (molecular "AlfaFusion" bonding), so it is more resistant to extreme temperatures (up to 500°C) and guarantees the maximum hygiene level for drinking water.
Need copper-free heat exchangers? Whether your project involves aggressive ammonia systems, requires exceptional chloride resistance, or is preparing potable hot water - Amegata engineers will help you find the optimal option. We will also match heat exchanger insulation. For a commercial offer, contact us.