Second-generation VOC system for Norwegian tankers

摘要

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are a mixture of light-end hydrocarbon components such as methane, ethane, propane, and butane. These gases contribute to the greenhouse effect, and are emitted from all vessels, but particularly tankers, especially during loading. Hamworthy KSE has recently developed a VOC recovery system that liquefies VOC gas in a processing plant, and then stores the gases. Liquefaction is beneficial in that it can be re-injected into crude oil during discharge or it can be exported for further use and refining; alternatively it can be used domestically onboard, or as hydrocarbon blanket gas. This first-generation VOC condensation system was this year delivered to ExxonMobil for operation onboard Stena Alexita. The tanker is part of the Ugland Nordic fleet, owned by Teekay Shipping Corp, which recently also took over Navion, the company closely involved with Hamworthy KSE in trials and development of a next-generation VOC recovery system - the VOC recycling system.