Alfa Laval Breaking new ground with the first methanol boiler installationv

The successful commissioning of the Aalborg marine boiler

for methanol marks a significant achievement in the maritime

industry. As the first-ever methanol boiler installed on board a

vessel, this groundbreaking project demonstrates Alfa Laval’s

ability to undertake complex projects that require a high level of

technical expertise, planning, and close collaboration between

Alfa Laval and the shipyard.

In early 2023. Alfa Laval secured the world’s first order for

methanol dual-fuel boilers for four 16.000 TEU container ships

supporting a leading Chinese shipowner in its ambitious de

carbonization journey. By the end of 2024. methanol bunkering

was completed, and the vessel was ready for commissioning.

With the shipyard operating on a tight schedule, the boiler’s

commissioning and inspection had to be finalized by early 2025.

demanding precise time management, technical execution,

and close collaboration.

Alfa Laval is taking a pivotal role in driving

the marine industry’s transition with its

methanol-capable solutions. With the

successful commissioning of the first boiler

system for methanol, we have proven our

expertise in handling complex installations,

showcasing our ability to deliver innovative

and advanced solutions that support

shipowners in their decarbonization journey.”

A pioneering project to support decarbonization

The Alfa Laval Aalborg methanol-fired boiler was developed to

support fuel transition with a future-proof design. Unlike typical

newbuild projects, integrating the first methanol boiler required

navigating new class regulations, ensuring seamless integration

with the ship’s design, and managing tight timelines. Alfa Laval’s

experience in alternative fuel systems, particularly its pioneering

work with steam boilers for LNG, was instrumental in ensuring a

smooth and successful commissioning process.

Driving project success through collaboration and planning

This first-of-its-kind initiative required a high level of planning,

technical expertise, and collaboration among stakeholders to

ensure seamless integration of equipment and functionality. The

close cooperation between the shipyard, Alfa Laval service and

R&D team created valuable learning opportunities throughout

the process.

Given the shipyard’s demanding timeline, the commissioning

process required systematic execution and alignment with the

shipyard’s progress. Alfa Laval ensured on-time delivery of

engineering and equipment, completing the final inspection

ahead of the deadline.

“Alfa Laval’s strong coordination within the internal project team

and with the shipyard was key to the project’s timely completion.

Pre-installation preparations, including training, laid the foun

dation for a smooth installation process. During commissioning,

the collaboration between Alfa Laval’s R&D, system engineers,

software engineers, and commissioning experts allowed for

real-time problem-solving, while the commissioning team’s

cooperation with the shipyard ensured that any technical

challenges were swiftly addressed,” says Jeppe.