July 23, 2025 – Shanghai, China – As global demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems continues to rise, copper continues to dominate as the material of choice in the air conditioning and refrigeration industry. Among the most sought-after products today is the 3/8-inch AC insulated copper pipe pancake coil – a flexible, durable, and high-performance solution for modern air conditioning systems.
In response to this growing need, leading Chinese manufacturers are stepping up production of pancake pair coils and copper tubes in coils, providing global HVAC companies with consistent quality, reliable supply chains, and customizable insulation options. These products are playing a critical role in enhancing the energy efficiency, longevity, and cost-effectiveness of air conditioning systems used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
What Makes Pancake Copper Coils Ideal for Air Conditioning?
Pancake coils refer to copper tubes coiled into compact, circular rolls, making them easy to handle, transport, and install. The 3/8" size is among the most commonly used diameters for refrigerant lines, especially in split air conditioning systems. When combined with insulation foam or PE (polyethylene) covers, these coils help reduce thermal loss, minimize condensation, and prevent energy waste.
Copper’s natural properties – high thermal conductivity, excellent corrosion resistance, and antimicrobial surface characteristics – make it an irreplaceable material in refrigeration systems. Compared to alternative piping materials like aluminum or PEX, copper pipes offer superior performance and a longer lifespan, even in demanding environments.
Key Features of the 3/8 AC Insulated Copper Pancake Coils:
Material Composition: Manufactured using high-purity copper (C12200 / C10200), these coils meet international standards such as ASTM B280 and EN12735-1.
Double-Layer Insulation: Available with PE foam or rubber insulation in thicknesses ranging from 6mm to 20mm, providing excellent thermal insulation and protection from UV and mechanical damage.
Pair Coil Design: Often sold as pre-insulated twin coils (pair coils) where two copper tubes – one for suction and one for liquid – are bundled together for fast installation in split AC units.
Convenient Packaging: Supplied in rolls ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50–100 feet), reducing the need for welding or joints, thus minimizing the risk of refrigerant leakage.
Lightweight and Flexible: The annealed soft copper tubing allows for easy bending, even in tight installation spaces, without the need for additional fittings.
Applications in the Global HVAC Industry
These coils are integral to refrigerant transport in systems such as:
Residential wall-mounted split air conditioners
Commercial VRV/VRF systems
Central air conditioning systems
Refrigerated displays in supermarkets
Cold storage units
The 3/8" size is commonly used as the liquid line in split air conditioners, paired with a larger suction line (often 5/8"). Chinese manufacturers provide tailored solutions with matching twin lines, pre-insulated and ready for field installation.
Why Chinese Manufacturers Are Dominating This Segment
China’s vast manufacturing infrastructure, cost-effective raw materials, and adherence to international quality standards make it the preferred sourcing destination for HVAC copper coils. Manufacturers in provinces such as Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Guangdong have invested in:
Automated tube drawing and coiling equipment
In-house insulation extrusion lines
ISO-certified quality management systems
R&D labs for new insulation materials and packaging innovations
Moreover, many factories offer OEM and ODM services, enabling buyers to customize coil length, insulation color, and branding on the tube surface.
Meeting Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Goals
As governments and corporations worldwide push for greener energy practices, HVAC designers are focusing on reducing refrigerant loss and improving system efficiency. Insulated copper coils significantly contribute to this goal by:
Preventing refrigerant leaks through fewer joints
Reducing heat gain/loss along the tubing
Lowering compressor workload and energy consumption
By using recyclable copper materials and eco-friendly insulation foams, manufacturers align their offerings with global sustainability standards like RoHS and REACH.
Export Markets and Demand Outlook
With continued urbanization in developing nations and renovation of infrastructure in developed economies, the demand for high-quality copper coils remains robust. Major export destinations include:
North America: High demand for pre-insulated coils in ductless split systems.
Southeast Asia: Growing residential air conditioning market.
Middle East and Africa: Rapid urban growth and need for reliable cooling systems.
In 2024, China exported over $1.2 billion worth of copper tubes for HVAC use, and this figure is projected to grow by 8-10% annually through 2027.
Conclusion
The 3/8 AC insulated copper pipe pancake coils are more than just a commodity—they are a vital component that supports the efficiency, safety, and durability of air conditioning systems worldwide. With Chinese factories offering consistent quality, customization, and competitive pricing, global HVAC manufacturers have a reliable partner for their copper tubing needs.
Whether it's for a residential split AC or a high-capacity VRF commercial system, these copper tubes in coils are setting new standards in performance and convenience.