RACES brings engineers together at first event
UK – The Refrigeration Air Conditioning Engineers Society (RACES) held its first event since launching in October 2025, bringing together more than 100 engineers, contractors and suppliers at Lincoln City FC.
RACES is positioning itself as a body representing engineers and installers working across refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pumps, as these sectors continue to grow together and become more closely aligned through shared technologies, refrigerants, and system design.
The event reflected that shift, with the discussion focused on how skills, training, and standards need to be developed to keep pace with the increasing crossover between cooling and heating applications.
Focus on skills, standards and competence
A consistent message throughout the evening was that the industry is evolving, and existing qualifications alone may not be enough going forward.
Graeme Fox of F-Gas Register and Technical Director at RACES, outlined expected changes to F-Gas regulation, including reduced refrigerant quotas and a proposed acceleration of phase-down measures. He said this is likely to increase demand for additional training, particularly around alternative refrigerants such as hydrocarbons and CO2.
He also pointed to a wider move towards ongoing competence, rather than one-off qualifications, with refresher training expected to become more common.
Karl Richardson of wholesaler Logicool raised concerns about standards, highlighting the gap between holding an F-Gas certificate and demonstrating practical competence on site. He also referenced pricing pressure in the market and the availability of lower-cost equipment, which he said can impact quality and long-term performance.
We’re trying to be the voice for engineers and the voice for customers. What will drive the industry forward is access to technical knowledge and support for engineers in the field.
Michael Smart, Managing Director, RACES
Technical and practical presentations
Presentations from across the supply chain covered both system fundamentals and practical site considerations.
Neil Stewart of Yellow Jacket demonstrated digital tools for testing, reporting and diagnostics, including connected gauges and the ability to share data remotely. The use of automated analysis and reporting was presented as a way to support engineers and improve consistency.
Shaun Heywood of Daikin focused on VRV system design and installation, including the importance of correct specification, simplified system layout and long term support. He also referenced improvements in efficiency, footprint and noise levels compared to earlier systems.
Liam Davies of Bitzer presented on compressor diagnostics, with a focus on structured fault finding and the importance of checking system conditions rather than assuming component failure. The session highlighted common causes of compressor issues, including oil, electrical and refrigerant related faults.
Damian Slater of Fridge and freezer seals supplier, DSU covered the role of door seals in system performance, highlighting their impact on efficiency and reliability and the need to make identification and replacement more straightforward for engineers.
James Boswell and Tommy Gardner of TF Solutions focused on business skills and project support, including pre sales assistance, project coordination and aftersales support. They also highlighted the importance of engaging with colleges and supporting training to develop future engineers.
First event since launch
The event marked the first formal gathering since RACES was established, with organisers including Michael Smart of RACES encouraging engineers and companies to get involved.
Organisers said the aim is to build a platform that supports engineers through access to technical information, shared resources and ongoing industry engagement.
Further events, along with the development of technical resources and links with training providers, are expected as the organisation expands.
