Gas combustion unit
With its simple and reliable construction, the Alfa Laval Gas Combustion Unit (GCU) is the most trusted solution for boil-off gas (BOG) management on LNG carriers (LNGCs) and floating storage regasification units (FSRUs). By combusting the natural gas vapour, it removes surplus BOG that cannot be utilized in the engines or boilers. The proven GCU design, which uses electrical igniters rather than a pilot flame, offers not only dependable safety but also cost-effective and flexible operation.
Safe, reliable BOG management for LNG
- Choose proven GCU technology that has led the market for well over a decade – delivered to more LNG carriers than any other
- Match your vessel’s needs with a range of GCU sizes, a flexible fan setup and additional operating options (full free-flow combustion and off-gas mo
- Maximize peace of mind with stable and even combustion, ignited reliably and without an additional fuel-consuming pilot flame
- Keep operating costs down with a refractory-free combustion chamber and a low-wear design that minimize maintenance needs
- Rely on your GCU for many years to come, thanks to optimized airflow that reduces temperature stresses and extends burner lifetime
Regulating LNG cargo tank pressure is crucial to vessel safety, and no choice is more secure than the Alfa Laval GCU. Ours is the original GCU technology, continuously developed with simplicity and reliability in focus Optimized through full-scale testing at the Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre, the GCU 2.0 has an enhanced combustion chamber and burner that increase capacity and lifetime.
The simplicity and easy maintenance are the same in the GCU 2.0, which has a robust design with a limited number of moving parts. Optimized airflow and the elevated burner with electrical igniters create a stable flame in the fully metallic combustion chamber. With design temperatures down to -52°C, the GCU 2.0 is the only solution of its kind for use in Arctic conditions.
Metallic combustion chamber
The GCU’s fully metallic combustion chamber contains no refractory, which eliminates the risk of cracking. This helps prevent downtime, as does the limited number of moving parts.
Few moving parts
The GCU has a limited number of components and few moving parts, which minimizes maintenance needs and wear-related risk. Its spare parts are designed for easy replacement.
Optimized airflow
The combustion chamber optimally distributes the flow of combustion and dilution air. An elevated burner plate with air circulation caps further improves the air distribution and mixture.
Electrical igniters
The GCU uses electrical igniters instead of a sensitive pilot flame. Ignition is ensured, and the lack of fuel-driven pilot flame contributes to overall fuel efficiency.
Compact, flexible design
The GCU combines a small footprint and low weight with a flexible fan configuration. Few fans are needed, and they can be oriented to meet your vessels’ needs.
Configuration options
The GCU can be configured for full free-flow combustion, in which the compressor is bypassed. There is also an off-gas mode option for combusting waste from the reliquefaction plant.
Diverse Sizing of Alfa Laval Gas Combustion Unit (GCU)
Alfa Laval Gas combustion Unit (GCU) is available in multiple sizes and configurations to accommodate the diverse needs of both larger and smaller LNG carriers as well as FSRUs. The choice of GCU size and specifications for LNG carriers and FSRUs depends on a balance between operational needs, safety considerations, space constraints, and regulatory compliance.
Service and support for Alfa Laval Gas Combustion Unit
LNG as fuel
Methanol as fuel
See the Alfa Laval GCU 2.0 in operation
The enhancements that increase capacity and lifetime in the GCU 2.0 were developed through rigorous testing at full scale. The Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre is unique in having a full-size GCU installed, and the unit plays a key role in the technology’s ongoing development. Let Jeppe Jacobsen, Global Sales Manager, give you an up-close look.