Alfa Laval, a global leader in heat transfer, centrifugal separation, and fluid handling, has obtained an Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV. The AiP is for its Gas Combustion Unit (GCU) boil-off technology designed for liquid hydrogen carriers.
GCU: Essential for Liquid Hydrogen Transportation
The GCU is crucial for managing tank pressure and temperature in liquid hydrogen carriers. It ensures the safe combustion of boil-off gas from the vessel’s storage tank. Liquid hydrogen has unique challenges compared to LNG due to its extremely low boiling point of -253°C. This low boiling point leads to an increased boil-off rate during transportation.
Alfa Laval’s Expertise in Gas Combustion Technology
Alfa Laval’s GCU design and concept are based on its existing LNG technology. The company has extensive experience in gas combustion solutions for LNG carriers. The AiP from DNV confirms the technical feasibility and safety of the GCU design. Alfa Laval can now develop a prototype for further testing and type approval.
Key points regarding Alfa Laval’s GCU technology:
- The GCU safely combusts boil-off gas from liquid hydrogen storage tanks on marine vessels
- The technology is based on Alfa Laval’s existing LNG gas combustion solutions
- DNV’s AiP validates the technical feasibility and safety of the GCU design
- Alfa Laval will now develop a prototype for further testing and type approval
David Jung, Alfa Laval’s Business Development Manager, emphasized the importance of the approval. He stated, “For the industry to confidently transport hydrogen, ensuring the safety and reliability of enabling technologies is paramount. Alfa Laval’s proven experience in gas combustion technology for LNG carriers positions us well for GCU technology. This will be important once the hydrogen transportation market takes off.”
Alfa Laval’s Commitment to Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies
In November 2023, they announced plans to establish a new business unit. The unit will focus on electrolyzer and fuel cell technologies, along with an innovation center. This move demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting the growing demand for clean energy solutions in the marine industry.
As the maritime sector explores alternative fuels and technologies to reduce its environmental impact, their hydrogen GCU technology is poised to play a significant role. It will enable the safe and efficient transportation of liquid hydrogen by sea.
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