Alfa Laval FCM testing successful

MAN Energy Solutions developed the LPG-fuelled engine and partnered with Alfa Laval to develop, supply and test the engine’s low-flashpoint fuel supply system (LFSS).

“Given our previous work with MAN Energy Solutions in the area of low-flashpoint fuels, we were well acquainted with the specific challenges involved,” said Roberto Comelli, global sales manager for fuel conditioning systems at Alfa Laval. “Naturally, we were eager to continue our partnership and to build on the positive experience with methanol.”

The resulting booster system, the Alfa Laval Fuel Conditioning Module (FCM) LPG, is the first proven solution to provide LPG to a high-pressure combustion engine for marine applications.

Heat exchange

To deliver LPG at the 53 barg pressure the engine requires, the FCM LPG incorporates new pumping technology and effective high-pressure heat exchange, which are built into low-pressure and high-pressure skids.

The latter of these has a filtration stage comprising two independent chambers, which allows it to be serviced with the system in continuous operation. The automation and control system matches the LPG flow to fluctuating engine load without unnecessary heat input from the pumping and flashing of light fractions in the LPG.

Additionally, the LPG recovery function provides full liquid LPG recovery and partial LPG gas recovery when the engine or fuel valve train is purged.

The FCM has been evaluated for use with ammonia and the companies said they see possibilities for the FCM LPG as a booster for ammonia.