Alfa Laval to deliver world-first methanol-fired steam boiler

Alfa Laval has introduced its Aalborg boiler systems which can operate on a range of fuels, including methanol. The company said it has received significant orders for the boilers, and that the installation of such a boiler on a newbuild containership will mark the first time a methanol boiler has been installed on a vessel.

Deliveries of the boilers are set to begin late in 2023, with further deliveries are expected for tankers and cruise vessels.

Alfa Laval is pitching the boiler concept as a future-proof platform, able to operate on existing fuels like low-sulphur fuel oil, biofuels, LNG, and is compatible with methanol and other low-emissions fuels through ‘easy’ adjustments to the burner and boiler pressure section.

ABS granted approval in principle to the methanol-fire Aalborg system in November 2021. Testing methanol boiler operation began in early 2021, and the solution is now ready for deployment.

"Our boiler solutions are designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable shipping and ensure readiness for today's and tomorrow's emission-reducing fuels, including methanol," said Jeppe Jacobsen, Head of Global Sales, Heat & Gas Systems, Alfa Laval. “Having been pioneers in delivering steam boilers for LNG, we are pleased to be the first to support our customers in their fuel transition with our methanol-fired boilers.”

Related:X-Press Feeders orders up to 8 methanol dual-fuel boxships at Huangpu-Wenchong

The company said Aalborg boilers have high thermal efficiency to ensure efficient operation and fuel savings.