Alfa Laval Continues Green Push with PureCool
The newly-intorduced Alfa Laval PureCool system tackling methane slip from liquefied natural gas (LNG) engines continues a green solutions journey nearly two decades long while pointing the way forward into a new era of environmental work, the Swedish manufacturer says.
A unified push for green solutions
The emissions reduction system is part of Alfa Laval's Pure Thinking portfolio, introduced over 15 years ago to define an organized effort to pursue environmental solutions and help marine customers meet new legislation. Systems like Alfa Laval PureBallast ballast water treatment system and PureSOx scrubber were introduced ahead of respective regulations to ensure customers had proven solutions when the time for compliance arrived.
“We recognize our responsibility, both to our customers and to generations to come,” says Sameer Kalra, President, Alfa Laval Marine Division. “Alfa Laval is committed to meeting environmental challenges, which have grown more diverse and interconnected. Between our depth of experience and our involvement with many different onboard applications, we can take a comprehensive approach.”
Tackling methane slip
The new Alfa Laval PureCool system targets an unaddressed emission source: methane slip. This is the small percentage of unburned methane that escapes through the engine when LNG is used as fuel. Although no regulations currently exist for it, there is growing awareness of methane slip’s climate impact.
“LNG is proving an important bridge fuel in the transition to a zero-carbon future,” says Søren Hjorth Krarup, Business Unit President. “When combusted, LNG releases less CO2 than other fossil fuels. However, methane has a higher global warming potential than CO2, which makes the unburned fraction a concern. Regulations may or may not appear, but methane slip must be addressed if we are to reach a 50% reduction in marine greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”
Partnering across the marine industry
Alfa Laval claims the PureCool system exemplifies its forward thinking, but also the cooperation needed to meet ambitious environmental goals. Realized in partnership with engine developer WinGD, it is the main component of iCER technology, an option for next-generation WinGD X-DF engines where exhaust gas is recirculated at low pressure. With PureCool as the vital cascade exhaust gas cooling system, iCER slashes methane slip by up to 50% while creating a 3% gain in fuel efficiency.
“Partnerships can bring the dramatic results needed to fight climate change,” says Kalra. “This is why Alfa Laval joined the Getting to Zero Coalition, and it is why we pursue joint projects with suppliers and research partners at the Alfa Laval Test & Training Center. By pulling together across the industry, we can solve our planet’s problems while protecting – or even improving – vessel operations and economy.”
A solution for a new era
The PureCool system is a continuation of Alfa Laval’s long-term efforts, but Kalra notes it is also an important turn. PureCool joins other green solutions such as Alfa Laval PureBallast (ballast water treatment), PureBilge (bilge water treatment), PureNOx LS & HS (NOx abatement), PureSOx (SO abatement) and PureVent (crankcase gas cleaning). However, it is the first in the manufacturer's Pure Thinking portfolio specifically for LNG and a new fuel era.
“Emission restrictions are influencing fuel selection, which in turn affects so much else on board,” says Kalra. “Getting to 2050 will require even more fuel choices, including biofuels, which we will soon be testing at the Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre. Whether customers select LNG or another option, we will help them get the most benefit from it – environmentally and otherwise.”
“Every choice matters,” Kalra concludes, “and Alfa Laval can support every choice.”
