Ihe recent IIAR Seminar for Latin America in Guadalajara, Mexico, August 24- 26, brought together nearly 400 manufacturers, contractors, and end users from 12 countries for a unique opportunity to meet, learn and do business. Attendees took part in 14 technical paper presentations, five technomercials, networking events, and a heavy equipment exhibition. The event is the only one of its kind in the world outside the U.S. and is the most attended event in Latin America.

The refrigeration industry in Mexico is in full swing, and a similar rhythm is palpable in many other Latin American entities that understand the importance of eco-friendly natural refrigerants. The growth in the area has been so positive that many manufacturers have been installing plants in the region, making prices more accessible and keeping enduser facilities in better condition with contractors who service faster counting with spare parts without delay. The ongoing interest in and growth of natural refrigerants in Latin America made this an ideal time to present the 2022 seminar.

The event was hosted by members of the Mexico Chapter of IIAR headed by Josué Castro. IIAR’s International Committee Chair Max Duarte also attended the event along with IIAR’s International Director Yesenia Rector and the IIAR Latin American Administrator Federico Alarcón. Directors of the firefighter department for the State of Jalisco and Zapopan city kicked off the activities and took part in the closing ceremony.

Pulling together an in-person event after the pandemic took courage, but the main players in the industry were supportive. Once the invitations were launched, there was a positive and immediate response from sponsors and exhibitors.

The subjects discussed revolved around energy efficiency, improvement in procedures, legal regulations, and presenting cutting-edge technologies. Experts from different parts of the world presented 14 high-quality technical papers. Topics included best practices in the application of transcritical CO2 in industrial applications; safety valves, a review from the bases to the applicable legislation; and selection of flooded exchangers for ammonia and applications in the industry. Advansor, Bitzer Mexico, Danfoss, Frimont, and SRT presented technomercials.

With the event, which created a unique opportunity for manufacturers, end users, and contractors to meet, learn and do business, IIAR is keeping its promise to continue educating and reinforcing industrial refrigeration best practices in Latin America.

The event also featured networking opportunities and fun. Tibu Santillanes, a renowned musician, played saxophone during a meal. A dessert turned out to be a surprise show and, at the end of the closing day, the rock band Stone Walkers played original and classic songs, which was in line with the theme of the Hard Rock Hotel that hosted the seminar for the second time.

Post-event attendee surveys were filled with positive comments about the event with participants noting they generated new leads and found new suppliers. The next IIAR Latin American Seminar will take place in 2024.

THE IIAR LATIN AMERICAN SEMINAR AT A GLANCE

Almost 400 attendees 12 countries 20 states of the Mexican Republic 44% manufacturers, 28% end users, and 27% contractors 14 sponsors 14 technical presentations 2 technical days 5 technomercials 5 coffee breaks 2 gourmet meals Tibu Santillanes performance on the saxophone Stone Walkers band performance

THEMES

• Safety and efficiency
• Equipment reliability
• Norms and regulations 
• Lower operating costs
• Hands-on practices