Yachting Art Magazine

As part of the maritime energy transition, Alfa Laval announces the development of the first marine boiler system capable of treating residual ammonia emissions. This innovation, designed to equip a fleet of four dual-fuel LNG carriers, will be deployed by 2027-2028.

As the shipping industry explores alternative fuels to reduce emissions, ammonia is emerging as a carbon-free option, despite major technical constraints. Its use on board requires advanced technologies capable of neutralising its toxic properties and treating specific exhaust gases.

In this context, Alfa Laval has been selected to equip four 45,000 m³ gas carriers chartered by Trafigura with a unique boiler system that also functions as an ammonia residue treatment unit (ARMS). Designed in partnership with WinGD and the HD Hyundai Mipo shipyard in South Korea, this solution aims to ensure operational safety and efficiency.

This multifunction boiler will be capable of incinerating gaseous emissions from engines, fuel supply systems and on-board equipment, while producing steam. This reduces the need for additional equipment on board, cutting costs and saving space.

From an industrial perspective, the focus is on the ability to integrate this additional function into an already proven design. The approach adopted would simplify the architecture of ships while optimising their safety.

For Alfa Laval, this breakthrough is a continuation of its work on alternative fuels, which has already been successfully carried out for LNG and methanol. Since 2021, the company has been developing a specific solution for ammonia, with laboratory and industrial-scale tests carried out at its Danish test centre in Aalborg.

The system designed will serve as a benchmark for future generations of ammonia-powered ships. By integrating waste management into centralised equipment, this solution paves the way for safer use of this fuel and structural gains for shipyards and shipowners.

Trafigura, a major player in commodity trading, sees this project as a milestone towards decarbonising the maritime sector. The company welcomes this cooperation with Alfa Laval, highlighting the key role of this technology in overcoming the technical obstacles still associated with the use of ammonia.

Finally, this world first could accelerate the adoption of ammonia as a transition fuel, provided that innovation, safety and profitability are combined. With this project, Alfa Laval is affirming its ambition to support the industry in finding concrete solutions that are adapted to the requirements of tomorrow's maritime transport.