Babcock receives LR AiP for ecoETHN solution

Babcock LGE’s ecoETHN® solution permits the condensation of ethane BOG in a single step. By integrating the reliquefaction system with the fuel gas supply system, the solution maximises the efficiency of ethane-fuelled vessels, and very large ethane carriers (VLECs) in particular. This is the first time such an application has been developed by the maritime industry.

Babcock’s ecoETHN® separates excess methane from within the cargo boil-off gas (BOG) and feeds this into an ethane-fuelled VLEC engine, thereby reusing the incondensable methane gas as fuel. With no venting to the atmosphere, the industry-first design also minimises greenhouse gas emissions and as a result, the reliquefaction plant can optimise the operation whereby the system only condenses ethane boil-off gas.

LR carried out the appraisal of the system ensuring compliance with LR Rules and IGC Regulations, assessing the technical feasibility of the combined solution for the use of an enriched-methane ethane fuel supply system and maintaining cargo tank temperature/pressure control intended for the new generation of innovative VLECs.

ecoETHN® helps owners and operators reduce power consumption within the reliquefaction plant by using excess methane as fuel. The system also presents benefits to ethane liquefaction terminals as it allows a higher content of methane (of up to 2.0 mol%) in the ethane cargo. The reception terminal will receive cargoes with a lower methane content, enabling them to produce a higher quality ethane for suppliers.

Andrew McKeran, LR’s Commercial Director, Marine & Offshore, awarding the AiP said: “ecoETHN® is a first for the industry and we’re incredibly proud to issue an AiP to Babcock LGE for their design. ecoETHN® offers clear benefits to a variety of stakeholders, from power saving within the reliquefaction plant for owners, liquefaction terminals reducing costs by producing a higher content of methane in ethane, to terminals which can produce a high-quality ethane for their suppliers. ecoETHN® also offers a greener alternative by preventing venting occurring into the atmosphere, reinforcing LR’s commitment to shipping’s transition to decarbonisation. We see this a great step in ethane’s journey as a marine fuel.”