Dr. Eng. Ir. Riky Stepanus Situmorang, S.T., M.Eng., a lecturer in the Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Program at the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FT USU), together with his research team, has been awarded funding under the RIIM–BRIN research grant scheme. The funded project is titled "Analysis of the Mechanisms, Strategies, and Innovative Mitigation of Ant Nest Corrosion in Copper Tubes for Optimizing the Performance and Energy Efficiency of Air-Conditioning Systems."
The research team consists of Dr. Eng. Ir. Riky Stepanus Situmorang, S.T., M.Eng.; Prof. Dr. Gadang Priyotomo, S.T., M.Si.; Dr. Eng. Riki Hendra Purba, S.T., M.Eng.; Ade Irwan, S.T., M.T.; and James Haryanto, S.T. The study is designed to investigate the mechanisms of ant nest corrosion under conditions that closely simulate the actual operating environment of air-conditioning systems.
The research will involve comprehensive material characterization through surface and cross-sectional observations, electrochemical measurements, Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses. These methods are intended to identify corrosion morphology, corrosion product composition, degradation rates, and the dominant operational factors that contribute to corrosion, providing a scientific basis for developing effective mitigation strategies.
The study is expected to produce recommendations regarding optimal copper tube thickness, operating pressure, refrigerant selection, and material protection techniques. These recommendations have the potential to extend component service life, reduce the risk of refrigerant leakage, minimize maintenance requirements, and maintain efficient heat transfer performance.
Reflecting on the significance of the research, Dr. Riky Stepanus Situmorang stated:
"As the Earth continues to warm, the reliability of cooling systems is no longer merely a matter of comfort—it has become an issue of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Mitigating ant nest corrosion in copper tubes is a crucial step toward preventing refrigerant leakage, maintaining air-conditioner efficiency, extending component lifespan, and advancing more sustainable cooling technologies."
Through this RIIM–BRIN research grant, the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara, reaffirms its commitment to strengthening engineering research that addresses industrial needs and environmental challenges. The faculty continues to promote science-based innovations with the potential to improve technological efficiency while supporting sustainable development.