TMC wins VLEC compressor system deal

The newbuild vessels, each with a capacity of 100,000 cubic metres, are expected to rank among the world’s largest ethane carriers. According to MISC, they will transport ethane while also being capable of carrying ethylene and liquefied petroleum gas. Both vessels are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2028.

“From an air volume capacity or technology perspective, our delivery is pretty straightforward, where we will apply marine compressors that have proven their reliability on thousands of vessels,” said Hans-Petter Tanum, TMC’s director of sales and business development.

TMC’s scope covers a complete marine compressed air system for each vessel, including service and control air compressors. The Oslo-headquartered company specialises exclusively in compressors designed for marine and offshore applications.

Tanum said the scale of the vessels adds an interesting dimension to the project, despite the technology itself being established across the maritime sector.

The VLECs are expected to spend extended periods at sea, with media reports indicating they will transport ethane from the US to Thailand. TMC says its equipment is designed with this operating environment in mind, allowing crews to maintain compressors themselves while vessels are offshore.

“We obviously have the capability to fly service technicians with spare parts offshore or to any vessel worldwide, but our philosophy is to design and develop compressors that prevent such activity,” Tanum said.

He added that TMC develops compressors specifically for marine and offshore applications rather than adapting land-based equipment for use at sea.

The company said its approach is intended to improve reliability and reduce the need for specialist intervention during voyages that can last weeks or months between port calls.

The contract represents another project involving TMC’s marine compressor technology on large gas carriers, although the company has not disclosed the value of the Hyundai Heavy Industries agreement.

The two MISC vessels are scheduled to enter service by the end of 2028, expanding the Malaysian operator’s capacity to transport liquefied gases globally.