Alfa Laval’s FCM Methanol fuel supply system has been selected by Maersk for the company’s pioneering methanol retrofit project to enable the container vessel ‘Maersk Halifax’ to operate on methanol fuel.
This project is considered a significant achievement for both Alfa Laval and Maersk, underscoring the feasibility of retrofitting ships with the necessary equipment for methanol-based propulsion. Alfa Laval says it continues to drive the marine industry’s fuel transition with its methanol solutions, knowledge, and experience. The company has expanded its methanol-related expertise to offer solutions that suit the unique requirements of both new and existing vessels.
Alfa Laval will support A.P. Moller-Maersk with installation of the FCM Methanol low-flashpoint fuel supply system (LFSS) on board the 15,000 TEU Maersk Halifax. The retrofit is scheduled by mid-2024. This pioneering container vessel conversion will enable the vessel to sail on green methanol with dual-fuel capabilities.
Viktor Friberg, Head of Marine Separation and Fuel Supply Systems, Alfa Laval said: “At Alfa Laval, we collaborate with the industry frontrunners in exploring and embracing innovative ways for decarbonisation. The project with Maersk gives us a unique opportunity to take up a new challenge – retrofitting our equipment for methanol use, for the first time. We are immensely proud to extend our expertise to this innovative retrofit project.”
The project will involve adding a new fuel line for methanol alongside the traditional fuel line, respecting the existing space constraints and the tight time schedule. The retrofit of the FCM Methanol is considered a landmark project that requires advanced engineering and understanding of the practical considerations of working with methanol.
Alfa Laval’s technology research and product development, as well as experience in both project execution and vessels in operation (> 450k hours), has prepared the company to take on challenges to equip both existing and new vessels with methanol solutions over time. The system can be designed to meet specific requirements ensuring optimised performance and environmental efficiency.
Ole Graa Jakobsen, Maersk Head of Fleet Technology, said: “We have set an ambitious net-zero emissions target for 2040, and retrofitting of engines on our vessels to run on methanol is an important nut in our strategy. Retrofitting solutions to accommodate new fuel thereby enabling the engine to operate on methanol is a complex task that requires expertise, and we are happy to have Alfa Laval on board on this project.”
According to Alfa Laval, sailing with green methanol fuel is a sustainable option to reduce emissions, but it requires a fuel supply system that can handle the fuel safely and effectively. With over 80 ships contracted, Alfa Laval claims the longest experience in methanol FSS installation and service since 2015. It is believed to be the only system that has been powering methanol-fuelled vessels so far, with over 450 000 hours of operations.
