Innovative Propane Testing Facility by SWEP to Enhance Sustainable Heating Solutions

SWEP Unveils Propane Testing Facility

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability, SWEP, a prominent name within the Dover Corporation, has inaugurated a sophisticated propane testing rig at its Research and Development Center nestled in Landskrona, Sweden. This facility aims to address the increasing demand for efficient heating and cooling systems that incorporate natural refrigerants, particularly in light of stringent regulations such as the European F-Gas Regulation.

The market landscape for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is evolving rapidly, primarily due to its significant share in global energy consumption. As the industry grapples with the pressing challenge of decarbonization, innovations become essential. Recognizing this necessity, SWEP has committed to advancing sustainable heat transfer solutions that leverage environment-friendly refrigerants.

Ulrika Nordqvist, President of SWEP, stated, "The new test rig will be critical in developing brazed plate heat exchangers optimized for systems utilizing natural refrigerants. We are committed to working hand-in-hand with our clients to design solutions that fulfill the needs of innovative heat pumps and chillers of the future."

Having already tested small- and medium-sized units with propane since 2019, the latest infrastructure will now facilitate the assessment of large-scale units. This advancement is designed to optimize efficiency while ensuring safety in handling propane, known for its low global warming potential (GWP) but also its flammability. The newly developed rig will support the ongoing pursuit of highly efficient and safe heat transfer technology.

According to Fabienne Bourquenoud Moret, SWEP’s Vice President of Marketing and Research, “The advanced test rig is optimized for a wide propane envelope and will be instrumental in the ongoing development of efficient and safe heat transfer solutions. We will persistently back our clients as they transition towards more sustainable heating and cooling systems.”

Safety measures remain paramount, especially considering propane's hazardous nature when mishandled. Ensuring quality and operational safety has been central to this initiative, forming a crucial aspect of SWEP's Global Investment Program. This initiative, spanning from 2019 to 2025, aims to bolster SWEP's long-term capabilities and introduce new technologies that foster customer success and stimulate growth.

The SWEP brand, established over three decades ago, has evolved into a synonym for efficiency and sustainability in heat transfer. SWEP specializes in manufacturing brazed plate heat exchangers used in both HVAC and industrial contexts. Thanks to its dedicated workforce of over 1,100 employees and a global network of business partners, the company stands at the forefront of redefining the competitive edge necessary for embracing a sustainable future.

Under the umbrella of Dover Corporation, which encompasses a diverse portfolio of products and services amounting to over $7 billion in annual revenue, SWEP’s commitment to innovation is firmly entrenched. Dover, which emphasizes an entrepreneurial spirit, employs over 24,000 individuals globally and is headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, trading under the ticker symbol ‘DOV’ on the New York Stock Exchange.

As climate concerns continue to surge, SWEP's modern facility represents a forward-thinking step that aligns with global efforts to transition toward environmentally friendly technologies in the HVAC sector. With its new propane testing rig, SWEP is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable energy landscape, one innovation at a time.