Jiangnan Taps TMC for VLAC Air System Supply | Mariner News

Jiangnan Shipyard has selected Norway-based TMC Compressors (TMC) to deliver marine compressed air systems for two Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs) currently under construction for Eastern Pacific Shipping. This contract underscores the shipbuilding sector’s increasing focus on specialized, robust ancillary systems for the evolving next-generation gas carrier fleet.

TMC will supply a complete marine compressed air system, encompassing compressors for both control and service air, for each of the 90,000 cubic meter VLACs. The compressors are based on TMC’s proprietary design, developed specifically for marine and offshore applications, a factor TMC highlights in meeting energy efficiency goals.

The decision to integrate TMC’s specialized systems into these VLACs highlights a broader industry trend towards a holistic approach to vessel design for future fuels. Beyond their primary propulsion, these vessels reportedly feature a next-generation low-resistance hull design and are equipped with an LPG dual-fuel propulsion system, projected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 20% and SOx emissions by about 99% compared to traditional fuel-powered systems. The selection of optimized marine-specific components like TMC’s air systems suggests shipbuilders and owners are meticulously integrating every system to maximize overall vessel efficiency and operational reliability as the VLAC segment gains strategic importance in the energy transition.

“As demand for ammonia as both a fuel and energy carrier grows, the VLAC segment is developing into an attractive and strategically important market for the maritime industry,” stated Hans-Petter Tanum, TMC’s director of sales and business development, emphasizing the importance of reliable technology in this emerging sector.

TMC has not disclosed the commercial value of its contract with Jiangnan Shipyard.