Alfa Laval—a leader in heat transfer, centrifugal separation and fluid handling—will soon start testing two new types of marine fuels; biofuels (made from waste) and methanol, in its Test & Training Center in Denmark. The tests will begin during the spring.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) targets a 50% reduction of vessel-related greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To achieve the long-term target of decarbonization, the industry must shift to new fuel types and technologies.

A number of fuel pathways are on the table in the transition towards zero carbon shipping but the knowledge about their impact on marine equipment solutions is limited. We want to extend that knowledge through testing It is our ambition to develop viable technology solutions in cooperation with other marine players, so that our customers can achieve their climate goals irrespective of the selected fuel pathway.

—Sameer Kalra, President of the Marine Division

Since ships have a lifetime of 20 years or more, zero-emission vessels must begin entering the global fleet by 2030 for a 50% reduction to be achieved by 2050. It is predicted that in 2023 the world’s first carbon-neutral liner vessel will be launched and that methanol-fueled vessels will be ready for delivery in two years’ time.