Built to Last: The DHT Advantage in Custom HVAC Coils 

By Diversified Heat Transfer – HVAC Coils 

In the competitive world of HVAC manufacturing, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and system integrators are under constant pressure to deliver reliable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting systems. When it comes to coils—the heart of every heating and cooling application—performance and precision can make or break an installation. 

That’s where Diversified Heat Transfer (DHT) stands apart. With over eight decades of heat-transfer engineering expertise, DHT provides OEMs with custom HVAC coil solutions designed for unmatched durability, superior thermal performance, and optimized lifecycle cost. For OEMs, that translates to a stronger product offering, lower warranty risk, and happier customers. 

The Stakes for OEMs and End Users 

HVAC systems are only as strong as their weakest link—and coils are often the first point of failure. Coil corrosion, improper material selection, or poor construction can lead to pressure loss, temperature imbalance, and premature system shutdowns. 

According to ASHRAE equipment life expectancy data, most commercial HVAC systems have a service life of 15–25 years when properly maintained. Yet many systems fall far short of that mark because of coil degradation caused by thermal stress, vibration, or environmental corrosion. Once a coil fails, replacement costs can quickly exceed thousands in both parts and labor—and downtime can be even more costly. 

A 2023 Xylem-commissioned study found that hydronic systems can outperform variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems by up to 24% in total lifecycle cost, factoring in energy, maintenance, and replacement expenses (HVAC Insider, 2023). For OEMs, that means long-term reliability is not just a benefit—it’s a competitive differentiator. 

Why Coil Durability Matters 

The global HVAC coil market, valued at approximately $11.2 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $18.6 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of nearly 6% (Market Intel+, 2024). Similarly, the fan and evaporator coil segment is forecasted to reach nearly $15 billion by 2035 (Future Market Insights, 2025). 

This growth isn’t just driven by rising demand—it reflects the industry’s increasing emphasis on customization, energy efficiency, and longevity. In this context, choosing the right coil supplier becomes a strategic decision for OEMs looking to future-proof their systems. 

The DHT Custom Coil Advantage 

DHT’s coil manufacturing expertise extends across water, steam, and refrigeration, ensuring each coil is built to the exact specifications of OEMs in commercial, industrial and institutional markets. 

Tailored Engineering and Material Expertise 

DHT engineers collaborate directly with OEMs to design coils that match system load requirements, refrigerant types, and environmental conditions. Every variable—tube diameter, wall thickness, fin density, and material composition—is optimized for maximum thermal transfer and durability. 

For example, microgroove copper tubes can deliver 20–30% greater heat transfer performance compared to traditional smooth tubes, while reducing refrigerant charge and system weight (Wikipedia, “Microgroove Technology”). These enhancements allow DHT coils to achieve superior efficiency without compromising footprint or cost. 

Built for Harsh Environments 

DHT’s construction methods focus on mechanical integrity and corrosion resistance. Fin and tube joints are precision brazed for leak-tight performance; tube supports and casing reinforcements mitigate vibration and thermal stress. Optional protective coatings such as silane or epoxy-based coil coatings extend lifespan in coastal or chemically aggressive environments (Reliable Plant, 2023). 

Fast Turnaround and OEM Flexibility 

DHT’s agile manufacturing system accommodates custom or replacement coils with lead times as short as 10–15 business days, with rush options available in as few as 5 days. This responsiveness enables OEMs to meet tight production schedules and retrofit demands without compromise. 

Direct-Fit Replacement & Retrofit Solutions 

With an extensive coil database and decades of OEM cross-reference data, DHT can reproduce or improve upon legacy coil designs with precision. Facility managers benefit from drop-in replacements that minimize downtime while improving system performance and efficiency. 

Lifecycle Performance and Cost Efficiency 

Each coil is engineered to reduce pressure drop, maximize heat exchange, and extend operational life—key contributors to lower lifecycle cost. DHT’s design practices emphasize easy cleaning, maintainability, and energy efficiency—critical for commercial and institutional HVAC systems. 

Why OEMs Trust DHT 

For many engineers, coils are seen as commodity components. But in reality, the difference between a “good enough” coil and a DHT-built coil can mean years of additional service life, lower total cost of ownership, and stronger end-user satisfaction. 

The DHT Difference: 

Real-World Impact 

• High-Rise OEM Project 
  A global HVAC OEM required a low-profile coil bank that could maintain performance within a restricted plenum height. DHT engineered a multi-pass configuration with custom headers, meeting the ΔT and static pressure requirements—delivered on schedule, zero rework. 

• Industrial Retrofit 
  A manufacturing plant upgrading its chiller system partnered with DHT to optimize fin spacing and tube pattern. The result: 15% energy savings and improved part-load efficiency—validated during commissioning. 

• Refrigerant Transition Upgrade 
  As systems transitioned to low-GWP refrigerants, DHT provided coils designed for higher operating pressures and new fluid properties, allowing OEMs to maintain certification without re-engineering full systems. 

Conclusion 

As the HVAC industry pushes for decarbonization and higher efficiency standards, the importance of durable, efficient coils has never been greater. For OEMs, the right coil partner is one that understands your challenges—design complexity, regulatory compliance, speed to market—and delivers engineering precision to match. 

DHT’s custom coil solutions are not just components—they’re performance enablers built to last. By combining engineering collaboration, advanced materials, and fast, flexible manufacturing, Diversified Heat Transfer provides OEMs and facility managers a proven edge in reliability and cost control. 

Explore DHT’s HVAC coil solutions: 
https://www.dhtnet.com/hvaccoils/ 

For more information or to request a quote contact sales at sales@dhtnet.com or 800-221-1522.

References