TKMicro: microchannel technology advantages for an efficient and sustainable heat exchange

In the actual landscape, marked by rising energy costs, ambitious environmental goals, and increasingly strict regulations, the HVAC/R sector is called to take meaningful steps toward long-term evolution.

Energy efficiency, technological innovation, and sustainability are now essential keys to meeting new challenges and building a lasting competitive advantage.

In this context, microchannel technology emerges as a strategic solution capable of:

• Significantly increasing system energy efficiency;
• Reducing environmental impact and CO₂ emissions;
• Improving both operational and economic sustainability of thermal solutions.

For years, ThermoKey has been investing in innovation and sustainability through TKMicro, its high-performance microchannel heat exchanger range. Designed to ensure energy efficiency, long-term reliability, and reduced environmental impact, TKMicro meets the ever-evolving needs of the HVAC/R industry.

Thanks to this advanced technology, ThermoKey has become a trusted European partner for the production and supply of custom thermal solutions aligned with the most modern ESG criteria.

1. High energy efficiency

Thanks to its unique design with Multi Port Extruded (MPE) tubes, TKMicro provides significantly more heat transfer surface area for the same volume. This architecture has been engineered to reduce resistance and minimize recirculation zones around the tubes, in order to optimize airflow. The result is greater air throughput at the same velocity, leading to lower pressure drops.

The combined effect of these factors reduces fan power consumption, cutting overall energy use and lowering the unit’s sound emissions.

2. Sustainability and ESG compliance

In a market where sustainability and environmental responsibility are strategic pillars, TKMicro solutions fully embrace ESG principles — combining high operational performance with reduced environmental impact across the entire product life cycle.

100% Recyclable Aluminum

All TKMicro heat exchangers are made from fully recyclable aluminum — a material that combines high thermal conductivity, low weight, and environmental sustainability. Compared to copper, aluminum has a lower carbon footprint and a more cost-effective production process, making it the ideal choice for both technical and economic performance.

Compatible with natural and low-GWP refrigerants

TKMicro® solutions are designed for maximum compatibility with a wide range of refrigerants, including:

• Standard refrigerants: R410A, R134a, R22, R407C, R404, R507A, R245fa;
• Low GWP and natural refrigerants: ammonia (R717), propane (R290), R32 (TS >120°C, max 45 bar, tested 50 bar), and new refrigerants such as R-1234ze.

This versatility facilitates integration in decarbonization-focused projects and ensures compliance with tightening European environmental regulations.

3. Lower transport and installation costs

Thanks to their compact and lightweight structure, entirely made of aluminum, TKMicro heat exchangers deliver greater thermal capacity at equal volume and transported weight – compared to same capacity round tube.

This translates into units with a reduced footprint, ideal for tight spaces and complex logistics. The lightweight design also simplifies handling and installation operations, significantly reducing operating costs and effort.

The result is improved project efficiency, with additional benefits in terms of reduced indirect carbon footprint and optimized assembly time.

4. Lower noise 

Optimized microchannel geometry and improved refrigerant distribution enable high efficiency at low fan speeds, helping to reduce the unit’s overall sound level. This advantage is especially valuable in applications where acoustic comfort is crucial, such as data centers, urban installations, or residential plants.

5. High corrosion resistance

TKMicro heat exchangers are built from high-performance aluminum alloy, ensuring superior durability and consistent reliability over time, even in aggressive environments or challenging weather conditions.

By using aluminum for both tubes and fins, the risk of galvanic corrosion is minimized, enhancing the system’s structural integrity. Additional surface treatments are applied to further increase corrosion resistance, making TKMicro ideal even for industrial or marine settings.

The result is a robust, long-lasting solution designed to deliver operational continuity, long-term reliability, and minimal maintenance requirements.

6. Custom made solutions with TKDesk

The TK Micro range offers high customization and maximum design flexibility, making it the ideal solution for complex HVAC/R applications. Thanks to its availability in various modular configurations, the heat exchangers can be precisely tailored to meet the specific requirements of each project. TK Micro is suitable for a wide range of applications—from process cooling to industrial air conditioning and data center thermal management—ensuring efficiency, reliability, and seamless integration in any operating environment.

To support engineers and OEMs in selecting the best configuration, ThermoKey has developed TKDesk, an intuitive, web-based configuration tool that requires no installation and is always up to date. In just four guided steps — Application, Parameters, Model, Detail — users can identify the ideal microchannel heat exchanger for their needs. TKDesk delivers reliable thermodynamic simulations, detailed technical output, and the support of ThermoKey’s team, helping reduce lead times and design errors.