november 20, 2024 ~ rothchild’s, 12:00 - 1:00

We will be having our November chapter meeting on Wednesday, November 20th at Rothchild’s Catering on Kingston Pike from 12:00 – 1:00 pm. Please come as early as 11:45 to socialize with other members and friends in our industry. Lunch cost will be $25 per person and will be payable by credit card, check, or cash at the door.

We are honored to announce that our speaker will be Wayne Wehber, the Chair-Elect of the International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration (IIAR). IIAR is the world's leading organization dedicated to the safe, reliable, and efficient use of ammonia and other natural refrigerants. As Chair-Elect, Mr. Wehber plays a pivotal role in advancing natural and industrial refrigeration practices globally.

The Increasing Use of Natural Refrigerants in Refrigeration and Heat Pumps. This presentation will address key factors influencing the industry, including the phase-out of higher-GWP refrigerants, PFAS restrictions, IIAR application guidelines, evolving building code adoption, advancements in compressor technology, and the broader landscape of technology adoption. The discussion will provide an overview of these drivers and explore multiple perspectives on their impact and future developments.

Wayne Wehber completed his (B.E.M.E.) Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology in 1981. Wayne received his (P.E.) Professional Engineering License in 1986. He continued his education completing a (M.S.I.E.) Master of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering from Alfred University in 1988 in addition to other classes from Syracuse University.

Wayne initiated his career in compressor development in 1981 with Ingersoll-Rand which later became Dresser-Rand.  He held various positions including the Manager of Product Development for multiple divisions in the Process Gas Industry. Wayne joined Vilter Manufacturing in 1997 and has held various positions in Quality, Engineering and Customer Service. Wayne is currently the VP of Technology at Vilter and is responsible for the Research and Development, Intellectual Property and supporting New Product Development and Special Growth Programs. He currently has 7 patents in compressor technologies and system designs. 

Wayne has served on the (IIAR) International Institute of All Natural Refrigerants Board of Directors and the (NRF) Natural Refrigerant Foundation since 2015 in addition to holding the position of Chair of the Research Committee for 7 years. He was IIAR member of the year in 2020 and will become the Chair of IIAR in March 2025.