Alfa Laval Leads Maritime Decarbonization with First Ammonia Waste Incineration Marine Boiler System

Alfa Laval Leads Maritime Decarbonization with First Ammonia Waste Incineration Marine Boiler System

(IN BRIEF) Alfa Laval has secured an order for the world’s first ammonia waste incineration marine boiler system, set for installation on four vessels transporting LPG and ammonia for Trafigura. This innovation, developed in collaboration with key industry players, is part of the shipping industry’s efforts to transition to ammonia as a zero-carbon fuel. The boiler system is designed to incinerate ammonia emissions safely and efficiently, helping shipowners save on costs and space while contributing to cleaner port operations and more sustainable fuel use. The system is expected to be delivered between 2027 and 2028.

(PRESS RELEASE) LUND, 4-Jun-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Alfa Laval has achieved a significant milestone in maritime decarbonization by securing an order for the world’s first marine boiler system designed to safely incinerate ammonia emissions. This innovative system will be installed on four 45,000-cubic-meter multi-gas carriers for global commodities company Trafigura, which will use the vessels to transport both LPG and ammonia. The system, part of a joint development project with leading industry players such as engine designer WinGD and South Korean shipyard HD Hyundai Mipo, is set to be delivered between 2027 and 2028.

A Groundbreaking Innovation for Ammonia-Powered Ships

Ammonia is rapidly emerging as a key zero-carbon fuel in the shipping industry. However, its use on board ships requires advanced technologies to manage its unique properties, including toxicity and the safe handling of purge gas and other waste gases. Alfa Laval’s new boiler system addresses these challenges by functioning as an Ammonia Release Mitigation System (ARMS), allowing the incineration of ammonia waste safely and efficiently. This breakthrough is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing the adoption of ammonia as a marine fuel, supporting the industry’s shift toward more sustainable energy sources.

“We are proud to once again lead the way in developing solutions for alternative fuels,” said Anders Lindmark, Business Unit President of Heat & Gas Systems at Alfa Laval. “With our proven track record in LNG and methanol systems, we are driving the industry forward with this pioneering ammonia incineration boiler system that combines environmental responsibility with safety and operational efficiency.”

A Multi-Function Solution for Shipowners

The innovative Alfa Laval boiler system goes beyond conventional steam generation by efficiently incinerating ammonia and ammonia-nitrogen mixtures produced by ammonia dual-fuel engines and other onboard equipment. This dual functionality helps shipowners save on costs and space, reducing the need for additional equipment while ensuring effective waste and byproduct management.

“Our new ammonia-incinerating boiler system streamlines vessel design by eliminating the need for separate equipment to manage ammonia purge emissions and boil-off gas,” explained Stig Person, Head of R&D, Business Unit Heat & Gas Systems at Alfa Laval. “This approach provides a compact and safe solution, maximizing space on board and contributing to significant cost savings.”

Design and Efficiency: A Collaborative Effort

The first commercial deployment of the ammonia-incinerating boiler system will serve as a model for future ammonia-powered vessels, optimizing vessel design and operational efficiency. The system’s integration into the vessel’s design not only addresses the challenges posed by ammonia as a marine fuel but also provides space and weight savings, offering tangible benefits for shipyards and vessel operators.

Dong-jin Lee, Head of the Initial Design Division at HD Hyundai Mipo, emphasized the value of this integrated approach: “By incorporating the ammonia incineration system into the vessel design, we are enabling shipowners to safely and efficiently use ammonia while optimizing vessel performance.”

Alfa Laval’s Proven Expertise in Multi-Fuel Technology

Alfa Laval has long been a leader in developing solutions for alternative fuels, building on decades of experience in fuel-handling technology. The company has pioneered combustion systems for LNG and methanol-powered vessels, proving its ability to adapt to the evolving energy landscape. Alfa Laval’s ammonia combustion technology is the result of extensive research and testing, beginning in 2021 with internal studies, followed by lab-scale combustion tests since 2022. Commercial-scale tests were initiated in 2024 at the Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre in Aalborg, Denmark.

“These vessels will be among the first to demonstrate a fully integrated boiler system for ammonia waste incineration, underscoring our leadership in ammonia combustion technology,” said David Jung, Business Development Manager at Alfa Laval.

Visit the marine equipment and solutions for ammonia as fuel page: Marine equipment and solutions for ammonia as fuel | Alfa Laval

Explore Alfa Laval’s sustainable solutions & technologies: Sustainable shipping solutions and technologies | Alfa Laval

For more information, please visit the Alfa Laval Marine webpage: www.alfalaval.com/marine

Editor’s notes

This is Alfa Laval

The ability to make the most of what we have is more important than ever. Together with our customers, we’re innovating the industries that society depends on and creating lasting positive impact. We’re set on helping billions of people to get the energy, food, and clean water they need.  And, at the same time, we’re decarbonizing the marine fleet that’s the backbone of global trade.

We pioneer technologies and solutions that free our customers to unlock the true potential of resources. As our customers’ businesses grow stronger, the goal of a truly sustainable world edges closer. The company is committed to optimizing processes, creating responsible growth, and driving progress to support customers in achieving their business goals and sustainability targets. Together, we’re pioneering positive impact.

Alfa Laval was founded 140 years ago, has customers in 100 countries, employs more than 22,300 people, and annual sales were SEK 66.6 billion (5.8 BEUR) in 2024. The company is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

www.alfalaval.com

Media Contacts:

David Jung
Business Development Manager
Alfa Laval Marine Division
Phone: +45 9930 4030
E-mail: david.jung@alfalaval.com

Helena Sannicolo
Vice President Marketing Communications
Alfa Laval Marine Division
Phone: +46 70 569 3806
E-mail: helena.sannicolo@alfalaval.com

SOURCE Alfa Laval