TMC compressors selected for LPG-fuelled carriers
Under the agreement, Norway-headquartered TMC will supply a complete marine compressed air system, including two frequency controlled Smart Air compressors and a desiccant air dryer, to each of the four 93,000cbm VLGCs. TMC’s Smart Air compressors can offer up to 50% energy saving compared to conventional compressors.
“Our Smart Air compressors are the global shipping market’s most energy efficient marine compressors. They are designed to reduce operating expenditure and emissions to air, while at the same time ensuring top operational reliability. They are a good match for the profile of these VLGCs,” says Hans Petter Tanum, TMC’s director of sales and business development.
Compressor speed control
TMC’s Smart Air compressors are based on a frequency-controlled technology that offers precise control of the compressor speed. The speed of the electrical motor will adjust itself according to what is required to produce the exact air volume necessary to meet the actual compressed air consumption at all time. In turn, lower air consumption requires less speed on the compressor and this directly results in less power consumption.
“Reduce energy consumption and you also cut operating cost and harmful emissions to air. It is easy to understand but often complex to achieve,” added Tanum.
The four VLGCs will be equipped with dual fuel LPG propulsion. The vessels are based on Jiangnan’s Panda Class 93,000 cbm series design. The order follows the award of a contract to deliver Smart Air compressors to six similar VLGCs that Jiangnan Shipyard is constructing for Petredec. In all, TMC has booked orders for ten marine compressed air systems from Jiangnan.
