aluminium beats copper on weight, strength and cost for air-conditioning makers
Aluminium is better than copper for air-conditioning pipes because it is lighter, stronger and cheaper, Alcom Group Berhad said.
Source: Alcom Group Berhad · July 30, 2026 at 11:06 PM · AI-assisted report
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KUALA LUMPUR, 31 JULY 2026 —
Aluminium gaining edge over copper in air-conditioning pipes due to weight, strength and cost benefits – Alcom Group
Market Impact
KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 — Aluminium is emerging as a superior alternative to copper for air-conditioning pipes, offering better strength-to-weight ratio, lower cost and enhanced flexibility, according to Alcom Group Berhad, Malaysia’s largest manufacturer of rolled aluminium products.
The shift toward aluminium in air-conditioning systems is driven by its lighter weight, higher strength and cost efficiency compared to copper. Aluminium’s superior strength-to-weight ratio allows for easier installation and reduced structural support costs in buildings. Its malleability also enables the production of flexible pipes that can be adapted to non-standard building designs, overcoming limitations associated with copper’s rigidity.
Beyond installation, aluminium pipes offer longer durability and easier repair. Unlike copper, damaged aluminium pipes can be soldered to regain or even exceed their original strength. Additionally, aluminium is highly recyclable, aligning with global sustainability trends and reducing reliance on finite copper resources.
Alcom Group Berhad, a leading supplier in the Asia Pacific region, produces a wide range of aluminium products and advocates for its adoption in air-conditioning systems.
The shift toward aluminium is expected to accelerate as manufacturers prioritize cost efficiency, sustainability and design flexibility in air-conditioning systems.