Alfa Laval Receives AiP for its Gas Combustion Unit for Hydrogen

Alfa Laval has reached a notable milestone with its Gas Combustion Unit (GCU) technology for hydrogen boil-off gas, receiving Approval in Principle (AiP) from the classification society DNV. This approval confirms the technical feasibility and safety of the GCU design for use on liquid hydrogen carriers, marking a key step towards safer hydrogen transportation.

The GCU technology plays a critical role in maintaining tank pressure and temperature on hydrogen carriers, as venting cargo is not allowed. The system combusts hydrogen boil-off gas (BOG) to manage these parameters safely. With DNV’s AiP, Alfa Laval’s GCU design is now set for further development, testing, and type approval, positioning it as a viable solution for managing BOG on hydrogen carriers.

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Alfa Laval’s experience with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) combustion units forms the basis for this hydrogen GCU. The company has a proven track record, with over 200 LNG GCUs already installed, but the unique characteristics of hydrogen, such as its low boiling point and flammability, require specific design adjustments. The company’s established expertise in gas combustion gives it a strong foundation to meet the challenges posed by hydrogen.

This achievement positions Alfa Laval to contribute significantly to the safe transportation of hydrogen. The company is now prepared to build on its existing GCU technology as the demand for hydrogen carriers continues to grow.